Empowering the next generation with IN2ScienceUK

I remember how important work experience was when choosing my own apprenticeship at Mott MacDonald and it was great to give others the same opportunity to get a taste for the construction industry. - Cameron Bailey, second-year degree apprentice

Read how Suzanna found her way to a career in construction estimation and why our industry needs to inspire, empower, and nurture the next generation of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professionals.

How does Mott MacDonald’s partnership with IN2ScienceUK help create more equitable opportunities for young people in STEM?

Our partnership with In2ScienceUK enables us to host work experience placements for students who are less likely to have friends or family working in the engineering and consulting sectors. They can participate in a range of activities including site visits, mock job interviews, group activities, independent presentations, and workshops on effective collaboration and leadership.

We hope to empower more young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, through life-changing opportunities that give them insights into STEM careers and research, expand their career prospects, boost their skills, and build confidence.

Why is it so important for the industry to help improve social mobility for young people from challenging economic backgrounds?

It’s encouraging to see more young people taking STEM subjects than ever before and engineering roles are typically more socio-economically diverse than most other sectors. However, there is still a significant attainment gap for pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds, and overall students from lower socio-economic backgrounds remain less likely to take up careers in STEM.

Inclusive initiatives are mutually beneficial, improving talent pipelines by creating earlier engagement with potential applicants and improving career engagement for under-represented groups within our sector – especially young people from lower socio-economic backgrounds.

Engineering UK has some interesting videos exploring how can we improve diversity in engineering and why is it important.

What are common misconceptions young people have about careers in STEM?

There’s limited awareness of degree-level apprenticeships, where students carry out well-paid work in their chosen STEM-related field while gaining a fully funded university degree. I often meet young people, students, teachers, and parents, who believe apprenticeships are for individuals with poor academic attainment, or that an apprenticeship means you’ll never attend university. You can find out more about Mott MacDonald’s apprenticeships in the UK and Ireland, here.

How did you find your way into a career in construction estimation?

I worked for a social mobility charity and then in project delivery for the Department for Education (DfE), where I joined their capital building programme. I’d left school believing a career in STEM wouldn’t be possible for me, but with the support and encouragement from my wider team, I was enrolled on a fully funded quantity surveying degree apprenticeship.

Which industries and sectors can estimation professionals work in and what’s the most rewarding part of your job?

Cost estimation professionals work across all industries and sectors within infrastructure and construction. It’s why I love my job so much. You could work on a whole host of exciting projects, which for me, have included global initiatives in aviation, education, and sustainable energy.

School engagement and outreach is the most rewarding part of my job. I can talk to students and young people about my role and explain why no two days are ever the same. It’s especially rewarding when I see young people from disadvantaged backgrounds imagine a career in engineering and consulting – something they may not have known about, or even considered before.

What attracted you to join Mott MacDonald?

My passion for solving complex challenges within the built environment drew me to join the advisory team for defence and energy at Mott MacDonald. I’ve been able to take on project management opportunities within the Water and Environment sector and stay true to my roots.

What advice would you give to young people who are keen to gain practical, hands-on experience?

If you’re interested in practical, hands-on experience, sign up for work experience. If you can’t get work experience in your desired field, other opportunities such as volunteering can develop transferable skills like collaboration, communication and problem-solving.

Looking for a fantastic way to get started in our industry? Discover various opportunities to join our teams.