Rolton Group are proactively engaging with local schools and colleges to encourage students to consider a career in engineering.
With only 59% of 11-14 year olds and 39% of 16-19 year olds open to considering a career in engineering[1] there is clearly work to be done across the UK to show students the incredible variety of opportunities available with a career in engineering. As part of a wider programme of engagement with local schools to highlight the options available with a career in engineering, Rolton Group’s Managing Director, Allan Rose, recently visited the Bedford School for Girls and The Ferrers School to provide engineering workshop sessions for several GCSE level students to discuss the practicalities of life as an engineer.
The workshops featured a talk and Q&A session delivered by Allan, giving the students the opportunity to learn more about working in the field of engineering from a local industry professional. During these sessions, Allan explained the various career paths available in engineering and what a typical day involves for engineers working in the construction industry, providing valuable information for both students and teachers regarding the choices available and what skills employers in this industry sector are looking for.
“One thing I was very keen to highlight to these students was the fact that engineering as a career is so broad, with something to offer for everyone,” Allan explained. “By opting to take subjects such as mathematics and physics, students can begin making choices leading to a potential career in engineering and even when entering the industry under a specific engineering discipline, all of the skills attained are excellent transferable skills. With life as engineer, you’re never stuck with just one option or “pigeon-holed” into one specific career path based on the studies chosen or your first job in the industry.”
The variety of ways to get into engineering was also discussed, with Allan highlighting options available and tips on how to enter the industry. A career in engineering does not always need to begin with a completed Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, as many vocational options exist with apprenticeship schemes and other opportunities available through training and studying while working.
Allan continued: “It was a pleasure speaking with the students and hopefully this will have given them all food for thought regarding future career options. We’re engaging with several local schools, sixth forms and colleges through talks, Q&A sessions and work experience placements to put engineering back on the map for students considering their next steps. We very much hope to be able to offer summer work placements again this year for those studying engineering courses relevant to our business, to help students gain valuable work experience in the industry, which could potentially lead to future employment with Rolton Group.”
Any schools, colleges or students interested in engaging with Rolton Group to find out more about engineering career options should e-mail Rolton Group’s Training and Development Manager, Jaz Sembhi (jaz.sembhi@rolton.com).
You can also find out more about what life as an engineer is like in the careers section of our website.
[1]Engineering UK 2018 – Synopsis and recommendations report: https://www.engineeringuk.com/media/1576/7444_engu…
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