An apprentice and graduate from Cobham plc took part in the Employer’s Network for Equality and Inclusion (enei) conference, which addressed encouraging more young people into STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) careers.
Wimborne, UK: Cobham apprentice, Ashleigh Baker, and graduate,
Joseph Somers took part in the enei's conference this week to
provide advice to employers seeking to make a difference in STEM.
The conference, hosted by Santander in London, raised important
questions around how to expand the talent pool in the UK by
encouraging young people to study STEM subjects and exploring what
employers could do to make a difference.
Speaking at the conference, Ashleigh and Joseph addressed
employers, Diversity Managers and other STEM organisations and
provided insight into their experiences.
"Speaking at the enei conference was a great opportunity which
meant we could address employers and tell them what works and what
doesn't when looking to recruit people into STEM careers" said
Joseph.
"I think it is critical that we as an industry promote a
flexible and open approach to recruiting for STEM roles. By
refining the recruitment process and reducing restrictions on
applicants; we can ensure a variety of skillsets, gender and
racially diverse applicants who feel confident in applying for
roles."
Above, Ashleigh and Joseph address the enei conference
hall.
"Employers should try to use more interactive and dynamic events
to engage students and provide them with information on what
careers in STEM actually entail, rather than using presentations,"
adds Ashleigh.
"However, it is also important to change the perception of
engineering amongst careers advisors, parents, teachers and the
students themselves, so they recognise that being an engineer does
not mean wearing overalls and getting dirty. Engineering is a huge
sector with a wide variety of roles which provide endless
opportunities for both men and women."
Cobham's Vice President of Corporate Responsibility &
Sustainability, James Streater, said "We are very proud of Ashleigh
and Joseph for speaking at the conference and contributing to the
discussion as they have. Their insight will help employers adjust
their approach and get involved in STEM initiatives so we continue
to develop highly-skilled engineers in the UK regardless of gender
or background."
"In 2015 Cobham became one of the core members of the Employer's
Network for Equality and Inclusion (enei) and remains committed to
welcoming and encouraging diversity in the workplace. We look
forward to supporting the important work they are involved in."
For more information on Cobham plc's careers please visit www.cobham.com/careers.
About Cobham
The most important thing we build is trust.
Cobham is a leading global technology and services innovator,
respected for providing solutions to the most challenging problems,
from deep space to the depths of the ocean.
We employ more than 11,500 people on five continents, and have
customers and partners in over 100 countries, with market leading
positions in: wireless, audio, video and data communications,
including satellite communications; defence electronics; air-to-air
refuelling; aviation services; life support and mission
equipment.
Media Enquiries:
Cobham plc
Lydia Santis
External Communications
M: +44 (0) 7702 140 809