Inspiring the next generation of engineers

'From idea to career' is a free, downloadable booklet for young people, teachers and careers advisors which showcases the breadth of rewarding careers available in engineering and technology. From aerospace and energy to manufacturing and software design, the resource is designed to educate and excite young people about careers in 12 engineering disciplines.

The resource has been produced by EngineeringUK's Careers Working Group - a collaborative group of careers, education, outreach and marketing specialists drawn from across the engineering and STEM community. The group produces a variety of free and interactive careers resources which are available to download on Neon, a website bringing together the UK’s best engineering outreach opportunities and inspiring careers resources in one place.

"There are so many exciting, rewarding and impactful careers that exist within engineering and technology, however young people often aren’t always aware that they exist," said Eleanor Eyre, head of careers at EngineeringUK. "We're delighted to have worked in partnership with the engineering community, including over 25 professional engineering institutions, to create a resource which showcases the breadth and scope of engineering-related careers."

The updated booklet also has a strong focus on environmental sustainability throughout – an area which is of particular interest to many young people. It showcases how careers in the 12 areas link to the UK’s net zero targets around carbon emissions and highlights how sustainability is a priority for every industry.

"We hope that the resource gives young people a better understanding of what it is that engineers do and their significance to society in solving our global challenges," stated Elpida Makrygianni, head of education engagement for the Faculty of Engineering Sciences at University College London. "We want to inspire young people from a diverse range of backgrounds to want to make a difference through engineering."  

Kathryn Denham-Maccioni, digital engagement manager at the Institution of Civil Engineers characterised 'From Ideas to Career' as "an indispensable resource for any young person considering engineering careers". "I’m proud to have worked on this and I’m sure it will be treasured by careers advisors and leaders in schools and colleges across the UK," she added. 

In recognition of the growing importance of engineering-related careers, National Careers Week will be holding a dedicated engineering-focused day on 9 March - which is being supported by EngineeringUK.

"National Careers Week is an ideal time to inspire the next generation into engineering and technology and we encourage the sector to get involved with showcasing career opportunities,” Eyre continued. "We have a wealth of free resources available on our Tomorrow's Engineers website, with advice on how to talk to young people in an inspiring and relatable way about careers in the sector."

'All routes into engineering' is another impactful new resource - this 20-page booklet explains the different vocational and academic routes into the sector, including T levels, apprenticeships and degrees.

Find out more and download 'From idea to career' at: neonfutures.org.uk/idea and 'All routes into engineering' at: neonfutures.org.uk/allroutes

Watch or listen to the 'All routes into engineering' webinar at: www.tomorrowsengineers.org.uk/improving-practice/resources/all-routes-into-engineering-webinar

Find out more about National Careers Week at: www.nationalcareersweek.com