Your Future Career
with a special feature on Opportunities in STEM Q2 2025 | A promotional supplement distributed on behalf of Mediaplanet, which takes sole responsibility for its content
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“We can’t tackle 21st-century problems with outdated systems of thinking.”
“Having a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture are key to organisations having a competitive edge.”
Susan Robson, CEO (interim), Women’s Engineering Society
Sandi Wassmer, CEO, Employers Network for Equalityand Inclusion (enei)
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Callie Rose Winch Advocacy Analyst, Stemettes
From pipeline to practice: why industry must lead on STEAM skills
Coding, creativity and careers start with games
As we mark International Women in Engineering Day 2025, the case for embedding STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and maths) into the UK workforce has never been more urgent.
From coding challenges to creative storytelling, video games offer a hands-on way for young minds to pursue careers in STEAM.
Shahneila Saeed Director, Digital Schoolhouse
Games spark curiosity Video games are often the first creative medium that young people engage with as makers, not just consumers. Designing and coding games nurtures core STEM skills: logic, systems thinking and storytelling. These transferable skills underpin careers in computer science, engineering and data analysis. Creativity meets computation Game development mirrors the scientific method, hypothesis, testing and iteration. It fosters resilience and experimentation in digital environments. This blend of creativity and computation makes games a compelling gateway to STEM pathways.
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echnical know-how alone is no longer enough. The future of work will depend on people who can code and communicate, analyse and empathise, solve and imagine. The industry must act now to ensure these interdisciplinary skills are not sidelined but prioritised.
technologies, women remain underrepresented: 15% of programmers, 8% of engineering technicians. Over a third of women in STEM report experiencing gender-based discrimination. Meanwhile, the UK urgently needs a more diverse, future-ready workforce.
Complex STEM challenges From climate innovation to ethical AI, our problems are systemic and demand more than siloed thinking. Integrating the Arts into STEM nurtures creativity, critical thinking and collaboration. These are not soft skills; they are survival skills in a world driven by rapid technological change and uncertainty. At Stemettes, we’ve spent 12 years embedding this approach, offering free mentoring, curriculum-linked teaching resources and events that bridge technical and creative confidence. We intentionally centre young voices, especially those too often excluded from these conversations, and we see the benefits of a STEAM-first approach daily.
Responsibility lies with individuals at all levels Promote diverse STEAM role models visibly within your organisation. Learn from youthfocused, grassroots organisations, such as Stemettes, to implement equitable practice into workplace operations and policies. Recognise and reward creative, interdisciplinary thinking — not just traditional technical outputs. Push for AI and emerging tech frameworks that centre ethics, inclusivity and creative insight. Share what works. Challenge what doesn’t. Crucially, ensure young people have a seat at the table where policy and innovation are shaped. We cannot future-proof the workforce without rethinking how we define excellence. STEAM isn’t an add-on; it’s the framework for a workforce capable of meeting tomorrow with resilience, imagination and equity.
A talent crisis the UK cannot afford The numbers are undeniable. Women hold just 30% of professorships across academia, and only 20% in engineering. In roles central to critical
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Beyond entertainment The impact of game technologies now reaches far beyond entertainment. From powering simulations in surgical training to supporting climate modelling and AI research, the sector is already fuelling innovation in other industries. A call to reframe It’s time to move past outdated narratives and recognise games as a powerful route into futureproof careers. With the UK’s games industry growing rapidly, investing in digital creativity, including proposals for a Digital Creativity GCSE, could unlock new talent pipelines. A young person building a game today could well be the biomedical engineer or ethical technologist of tomorrow.
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There’s so much on offer, and that helps you to stand out from other applicants when you graduate.
Image provided by The University of Staffordshire
Inside the UK’s largest games department where ideas become reality UK university produces industry-ready graduates through hands-on training, innovative projects and inclusive outreach programmes, with a first-of-its-kind virtual campus transforming education.
C Professor Chris Headleand Head of Staffordshire Games Institute, University of Staffordshire
Callum Roberts PhD student, University of Staffordshire Games Institute
Aurelia Brzezowska Computer Science student, University of Staffordshire
WRITTEN BY Bethany Cooper
allum Roberts, PhD candidate, is part of the team behind StaffsVerse, a virtual recreation of the University of Staffordshire campus built entirely in Fortnite. His research focuses on recreating physical locations within virtual worlds to design immersive and engaging user experiences. Gamified virtual learning environments “StaffsVerse is Fortnite’s first virtual university campus. We’ve recreated the environment down to the smallest details, with minigames to engage users in new and exciting ways,” he explains. This project reflects how virtual environments are transforming modern-day education, and Roberts is passionate about the role they play in leading that change. “There’s so much on offer, and that helps you to stand out from other applicants when you graduate.” UK’s best games institution With over 2,000 students enrolled in games-related courses ranging from foundation to PhD levels, University of Staffordshire is home to the UK’s largest games department, a hub of emerging talent recognised by both students and industry leaders. Professor Christopher Headleand, Head of the Staffordshire Games Institute, explains: “What makes us different is that we’re a dedicated games department, and that focus gives our students a clear edge.” Recipient of the TIGA Education Institution of the Year 2024 award,
and one of the only universities in Europe to be an Unreal Authorised Training Centre, the University is creating industry-ready graduates through a mixture of practical skills, cutting-edge programmes and collaboration with industry experts. “We maintain a diverse industry panel that meets regularly throughout the year to ensure our courses remain relevant. But we don’t just respond to the industry, we are contributing to it,” adds Prof Headleand. “Through worldleading research in areas like player behaviour and virtual reality, we’re proud to be disruptors helping support the future of games and immersive tech.” They also support students through employment. On the 1UP placement scheme, the university employs students for six weeks to run their in-house games development studio, where they get hands-on experience creating publishable titles. “They get paid, gain commercial experience and, in some cases, win national awards,” Prof Headleand says. “We’re incredibly proud of that.” Young STEAM Personality of the Year Extremely passionate and driven, Aurelia Brzezowska, Computer Science student at the university, is a proud role model for the next generation. “I was the only girl in my computing class, but that pushed me to keep going, and now I get to be a role model for others,” she says. Aurelia has not only won Young STEAM Personality of the Year;
she also co-founded the Women in STEM Society, joined the UK Cyber Security Council as a Youth Advisory Member and leads the Computing Society at the University, organising career events and connecting students with industry leaders. Representing the University at high-profile events like Women in Tech and Bright Network’s Illuminate, she champions inclusion and opportunity in tech. “Staffordshire’s hands-on approach and supportive community have helped me to thrive,” she explains. “It’s not about textbooks; it’s about doing. There are so many opportunities, from hackathons to career talks with industry experts and clubs or societies, which all help to keep you motivated.” Future-proofing graduates Exceptional talent is nurtured through a clear pipeline that supports graduates and future entrepreneurs, supporting students to turn their ideas into industry-ready ventures. “Game development is one of the few industries where you can get your start with a dream and a computer. Our MSc in Entrepreneurship gives graduates the business tools to turn their dreams into a real studio,” says Prof Headleand. Through inclusion, opportunity and innovation, University of Staffordshire is not just educating students, but empowering them to shape the future of game design and technology.
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Discover University of Staffordshire’s courses: staffs.ac.uk
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Potential for apprenticeships to solve talent retention challenges in 2025 Businesses of all sizes should be thinking about how apprenticeships can benefit their workforce, both upskilling their existing employees and attracting and retaining new recruits.
B Anna Morrison CBE Founder and Director, Amazing Apprenticeships
usiness leaders, no matter the size of the organisation, will often share one business challenge: attracting and retaining talent within their workforce. Businesses should be maximising apprenticeships as a top workforce planning tool, creating career pathways within their organisations at all levels that support the needs of their business.
Funding options and financial assistance Apprenticeships are relevant for employers of all sizes, whether a small business or a larger business. Depending on the size of the business and the age of the apprentice, there can be funding options and additional financial assistance to help reduce or remove the training costs.
Delivery models to suit you There are many different models of delivery, including in-person, hybrid and online, offering flexible Apprenticeships offer training solutions that can support employers a unique your business. With a wide range of way to develop the high-quality training providers to choose from — including independent skills and talent that providers, colleges, universities and they need within their employer-providers — you have the organisations. The breadth of levels choice to select the training provider Apprenticeship levels span from that suits you best. Intermediate through to degreeApprenticeships offer employers a level. This means that whatever unique way to develop the skills and the apprentice’s starting point, there will be an talent that they need within their organisations to drive apprenticeship that can support their development and forward the products and services that they offer. By progression. From August this year, new ‘Foundation’ investing in your workforce through apprenticeships, apprenticeships will be introduced, providing an you can be in control of the skills and development additional pathway for young people aged 16–21 or needs of your workforce. 22–24 for those who meet certain eligibility criteria. The range of apprenticeships There are more than 700 different apprenticeship standards covering thousands of different job roles. Designed by employers, they ensure that apprenticeships contain the mix of knowledge, skills and behaviours that businesses need.
To find out more about apprenticeships visit amazing apprenticeships.com
You don’t need all the answers. Just the ambition At Lloyds Banking Group, we value curiosity, fresh thinking, and the drive to grow. Whether you’re taking your first steps towards an apprenticeship or launching your graduate career, your ideas matter here. Development is a priority for us. With real support, you can make an impact. On yourself, our customers and communities. This is a place to thrive. Find out more at lloydsbankinggrouptalent.com
Ready to take the next steps in your career?
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Engineering the future: expanding opportunities for women in the sector
by strong leadership) are more adept at solving problems, spotting risks and responding to market needs. Equity must be a core part of organisational strategy, not just a value but a necessity for engineering to thrive in the long term.
Engineering has always shaped the world: through innovation, construction and problemsolving. However, today’s global challenges, from climate change to ageing infrastructure, demand more inclusive, creative approaches.
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e can’t tackle 21st-century problems with outdated systems or thinking. To unlock engineering’s full potential, the sector must break from tradition. Women remain underrepresented. Yet, they offer vital perspectives and solutions, not just in corporate roles but across the entire engineering ecosystem. Embracing diverse pathways, embedding equity in business strategy and fostering collaboration across sectors are essential. Engineering’s future depends on a bold, inclusive vision where progress benefits all.
Engineering’s central role in global challenges From energy transition to climate resilience, engineering is central to solving today’s crises. However, relying on conventional methods isn’t enough. The sector must evolve, welcoming fresh perspectives and partnerships to keep pace with increasingly complex global issues. Innovation and adaptability are key to delivering lasting impact. Innovation through inclusivity Diversity fuels innovation. Teams that reflect a range of experiences and viewpoints (when supported
How inclusive companies are supporting today’s female STEM professionals
I Paid for by Expleo
Initiatives that empower women in STEM “This fog led to not feeling a sense of belonging,” explains Priya. For her, it also led to imposter syndrome and selfdoubt, which created fears about speaking up and voicing her opinions. Yet, the tide is changing. Companies like
Collaboration as a catalyst Building a diverse and skilled workforce requires collective action. Industry, academia, government and NGOs must work together to remove barriers, promote alternative routes and broaden engineering’s appeal. Only by aligning efforts can we make the field more equitable and ensure it meets the urgent global challenges ahead.
various industries and follow my own passions through this launch,” she adds.
Learn how inclusive, forward-thinking companies empower female STEM professionals to overcome impostor syndrome and thrive in a diverse, AI-driven workplace.
n the rapidly evolving world of STEM, women have long faced the challenge of being heard, seen and valued for who they are. Priya Panesar, Agility Lead at Expleo, describes this as women being hidden in a ‘fog,’ citing ‘A Radical Awakening’ by best-selling author Dr Shefali.
Expanding the ambition To realise the sector’s full potential, opportunities for women must extend beyond traditional roles. Talent from adjacent fields, entrepreneurship or those returning after career breaks is still overlooked. Creating visible, supportive pathways and inclusive environments will enable women to contribute fully, helping shape a more dynamic and effective future for engineering.
Susan Robson CEO (Interim), Women’s Engineering Society
Expleo are fostering inclusive communities where women are not only encouraged to shine but also given resources to do so. “We recently launched women@ expleo in the UK, which was founded in 2022,” says Priya. “In this community, we empower and embrace our female colleagues, with male colleagues acting as allies.” It offers awareness, support and advice on topics like assertiveness, imposter syndrome, menopause and the gender gap. There are KPIs around the initiative focusing on equality and diversity, including boosting female retention. “I’ve been able to work on interesting and insightful projects across
How AI generates opportunities in STEM Artificial intelligence (AI) is a transformative force in empowering women in STEM, particularly by enhancing access to learning opportunities, fostering global collaboration and enabling women to demonstrate their expertise in ways that inspire and mentor the next generation. By leveraging AI, women can more effectively navigate their career paths, supported by agile networks and continuous knowledge-sharing. As Priya highlights: “I can achieve my goals by staying true to myself and navigating my career journey with the invaluable support of my professional network.” Be valued for who you are For women considering a STEM career, Priya’s advice is clear: “Be valued for who you are. Remove the fog that surrounds your identity, truly strive to be your best self and never be afraid to voice your opinion or ask questions.” In an era where women have inclusive companies, role models and advanced tools to back them, they should not let this fog limit them.
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Priya Panesar Agility Lead, Expleo
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AI futures: AI is shaping our world, but who’s shaping AI?
Recognising the role of DEI in driving STEM innovation
Learn how AI and tech can empower diverse young voices through inclusive tech education, building a future where everyone can feel a sense of belonging and lead.
As some organisations retreat from diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), it’s crucial to recognise its legal, moral and commercial value. Sandi Wassmer CEO, Employers Network for Equality and Inclusion (enei)
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diverse workforce and inclusive culture boost innovation, productivity and talent retention — especially in STEM, where competition for skills is high.
DEI backlash risk With the political push against DEI continuing in the US, many UK organisations are reviewing their DEI efforts, which is not necessarily a bad thing. However, some organisations who were halfway down the anti-woke road are using this as an excuse to ditch DEI efforts altogether, which is very disconcerting. In the UK, there is a solid legal imperative for DEI, with both employment and equality legislation protecting employees’ rights. Moreover, there is a strong moral imperative. As we live in a society that strives to be fair and equitable, there is also an incredibly powerful business imperative.
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he new inevitability is that artificial intelligence is rapidly shaping our world, whether you’re ‘in’ or not.
Missing voices Currently, AI is created, developed, tested, deployed and regulated in exclusive circles, by a narrow demographic — an artefact of the wider ethnicity, gender, disabled people, plus regional and socioeconomic diversity gaps in tech. The voices of many are deemed irrelevant or missing. There’s a social imperative — and societal and business case — to intentionally ensure AI is created by, and for, everyone. Ensuring tech reaches all The tech careers education and social mobility charity, Tech She Can is on a mission to reach all, in classrooms and with workplace experiences across the UK. Backed by business, our free schools’ programme (Tech We Can) for boys and girls brings tech roles to life, showing children relatable industry role models and linking their passions
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to tech. We are raising aspirations and opening doors. It is vital, inspirational and emotional work. It has the power to change life outcomes and, ultimately, the technologies we all use. We are racing to meet demand: our virtual school’s assembly on AI inspired and educated 40,000 children in one day; and our inaugural annual AI Summit in partnership with Accenture invited 250 twelve-year-olds from the North West to imagine AI futures — built by them. Inclusion is a choice We must all choose to invest in and expand inclusive tech education that truly delivers results. The UK cannot afford — socially or economically — to ignore the curiosity, energy, creativity, talent and unique experiences of all.
Dr Claire Thorne Co-CEO, Tech She Can
Having a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture is key to organisations having a competitive edge. Inclusive culture benefits Having a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture is key to organisations having a competitive edge. An inclusive and psychologically safe environment allows people to feel free to be themselves, take risks, raise concerns and participate in decisions that shape their working lives. It also encourages them to make mistakes and learn from them, and to feel part of something bigger than themselves. This kind of environment leads to higher staff retention, lower absence levels, greater work satisfaction and increased productivity. On this foundation, having a diverse workforce that represents the communities and customers you serve leads to increased creativity and innovation. This results in products and services that remain relevant and delight customers long into the future. Using DEI to drive retention As the STEM sector faces ongoing talent attraction and retention challenges, it’s crucial to ensure that DEI is at the heart of every stage of the employee life cycle. Creating an environment where everyone has all the resources they need to thrive and flourish is essential for business success.
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Inclusive career opportunities across the technology-driven waste management sector An established leader of sustainable waste management in the UK highlights the breadth of roles available for future engineers, hoping to redefine the waste industry alongside modern technology.
W Malcolm Bussey Engineering Director, Biffa
Jordan Stuart Engineering Training Academy Manager, Biffa
WRITTEN BY Bethany Cooper
hat many think of as bins and lorries is actually a combination of pioneering sustainability, innovation, engineering and fast-driven technology. Biffa, one of the UK’s leading sustainable waste management companies, hopes to redefine waste management. “People don’t see the processing side of recycling: the complex systems, robotics and the sheer scale of innovation,” says Malcolm Bussey, Group Engineering Director. “We touch every type of engineering there is, from mechanical to electrical, chemical to civil and maintenance. It’s an incredibly dynamic industry to work in.” Career development and opportunity Working with young people and ex-military, the company’s accredited engineering apprenticeship and graduate programmes are designed to offer flexible pathways tailored to individual strengths and career goals. Apprentices rotate across multiple processing sites to gain hands-on experience in areas such as mechatronics, robotics and project management. “The waste industry is evolving so fast and requires significant collaboration, from environmental science and logistics to engineering and data analysis. It’s a technology-driven, multidisciplinary sector,” says Jordan Stuart, Engineering Training Academy Manager. “Apprentices are given the opportunity to take ownership of projects and work in real-world situations.
We hold regular feedback sessions and continually adapt the programme to keep it relevant and flexible to the individual’s needs,” she explains.
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Women in STEM As Stuart aptly explains: “Innovation thrives on diversity.” Through mentoring opportunities, STEM outreach and inclusive recruitment, Biffa is hoping to increase female representation across their engineering roles. “Women bring a different perspective to engineering, and we recognise the need to build a stronger, more inclusive workforce,” she adds. “Having a diverse team is beneficial because people challenge problems in different ways. Everyone learns differently and brings unique skills, having a diverse team means better solutions,” adds Bussey. Working with a purpose The company is constantly evolving to meet the growing demands of the recycling industry, translating advancements in technology into real-world recycling solutions. With a culture of constant encouragement, it also works with businesses big and small to help cut waste, boost recycling and turn rubbish into resources. “There is a real sense of purpose working at Biffa,” concludes Stuart. “There are real opportunities to make a difference. Not only do we work with new technology, but we are breaking new ground in sustainability.”
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Transforming opportunities in STEM, one partnership at a time By partnering with outreach organisations, STEM industries can drive meaningful and manageable change.
T Stephen Hancock CEO, In2scienceUK
he UK is facing an urgent shortage of skilled organisations have the power and responsibility to make workers in many STEM sectors. This skills gap a difference. Continuing to open doors to young people is is having a detrimental impact on industry the most impactful way to ensure we continue to see the growth and our wider economy. However, this brightest talent driving these sectors forward. As we have is not a crisis caused by a lack of talent, but a lack of witnessed firsthand time and time again through the equitable opportunities. experiences of our beneficiaries, just At In2scienceUK, we work with one placement, mentoring relationship young people from low socioeconomic or an inspiring speaker can transform backgrounds who are passionate about a young person’s confidence and STEM, yet face systemic barriers to ambition. These opportunities don’t A diverse STEM pursuing careers within these fields. require major investment, but they do A career in STEM has the potential to require action. workforce doesn’t offer unmatched opportunity, but only just reflect society; it The power of partnerships for those with access and support to pursue it. Collaboration is key for lasting influences it. change. When an industry partner Small actions, big STEM impact joins forces with an organisation like When we actively support individuals In2scienceUK, they don’t just give from underrepresented backgrounds back; they help to shape the future. to access hands-on experience and gain the knowledge, In2scienceUK provides the engagement and support connections and skills needed to succeed in STEM that young people need to succeed, but it’s the exposure professions, everyone benefits. A diverse STEM to real-life opportunities and connections with STEM workforce doesn’t just reflect society; it influences it, professionals that often acts as the true catalyst. These bringing new perspectives to global problems and driving experiences help young people see that not only can innovation. they work in STEM but also belong there and deserve to The challenge is real, but so is the opportunity. STEM achieve their ambitions.
Explore careers in the UK’s growing space industry Space isn’t just for astronauts. Discover the wide range of careers helping to shape the future of space exploration. Who do you think of when someone says ‘space’? Neil Armstrong? Yuri Gagarin? Like many, you probably thought of astronauts or perhaps scientists and engineers. Yet, like any industry, exploring space takes a collective effort that’s far wider than just those few roles. This effort is often overlooked, but today, we shine a light on some of those roles. The skills gap in the UK space industry In 2023, the Government published a ‘UK space sector skills survey’ report. The report found 52% of organisations reported a skills gap in their
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workforce — 72% of that gap was in software and data. Software engineers and data analysts who can utilise AI and machine learning and interpret data in a space context are in high demand. Moreover, 71% of organisations with skills gaps admit this had a major to moderate impact on their business. So, if you have these skill sets, you could make a significant impact on the UK’s space industry.
to finance officers. You can get a real insight into the variety of jobs within the space sector and what role suits you. All of these roles will help the future Neil Armstrongs explore space safely and enable humanity to keep using space to benefit life on Earth. Visit SpaceCareers. uk — a leading careers website for the UK space sector, designed to support anyone interested in getting involved with space.
Derek Lam Operations Coordinator, SpaceCareers.uk
Exploring your path in the space sector On the Spacecareers.uk website, you can read a selection of job profiles, from space lawyers and Earth observational specialists
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