~ Supporting awareness, confidence and future talent in engineering ~
The Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) hosted an outreach session in Parliament at Portcullis House for sixth form science students from Garibaldi School in Mansfield, to build awareness of chemical engineering’s role in future careers through discussion and practical exploration. The session, taking place on November 12, followed discussions with Dame Chi Onwurah MP, Chair of the House of Commons Science and Technology Select Committe about science policy, research and the role of innovation in government.
The students gained awareness of chemical engineering’s central role in developing sustainable energy systems, low-carbon manufacturing and resilient healthcare supply chains.
Yvonne Baker OBE, Chief Executive of IChemE, opened the session by highlighting chemical engineering’s role in driving sustainability and positive social impact. Baker spoke directly to why this stage of sixth form is a pivotal point in shaping study direction and personal ambition.
“Students are thinking about climate, health and the systems that support everyday life,” explains Baker. “Chemical engineering offers a route into work that addresses these questions through evidence and design. Here, we connected that possibility with their own experiences.
“For the profession continue to meet these challenges young people need to understand the pathways into engineering and can see how their interests connect with real-world problem solving.”
The event was also sponsored by Steve Yemm MP, Member of Parliament for Mansfield, who spoke about the importance of connecting local students with opportunities to learn more about chemical engineering and STEM careers more broadly.
“It was fantastic to see students engaging so enthusiastically with the problems and issues that chemical engineering is all about.” added Yemm. “Events like this are crucial to inspire the next generation of innovators and problem solvers who will help us achieve a prosperous and sustainable future.”
The programme also featured a networking session where students met IChemE volunteers, hearing first-hand about their study choices and career journeys, and how varied and rewarding a career in chemical engineering can be.
The event also included an exercise using a simplified process flow representation which introduced the idea that engineering involves decisions that balance performance and practicality. The visit forms part of a wider programme of science engagement in Parliament, which includes sessions with the Royal Society of Chemistry and a Q&A with members of the Science, Innovation and Technology Committee.
The visit is one aspect of IChemE’s ongoing commitment to strengthen awareness of chemical engineering among young people and to support pathways into technical education. Explore IChemE’s education and outreach initiatives here.
