Sulzer has partnered with local schools within Leeds to help students aged 11-18 to develop essential skills needed to succeed and enhance their knowledge of the engineering and manufacturing industries. 31 events, run by Ahead Partnership, have taken place across the two years. These events include careers panels, speed networking, inspirational speeches, workplace visits and mentoring.
Developed to highlight the importance of STEM and the range of careers available within the sector, the programme has had a fantastic impact. 91% of students said that taking part increased their awareness of the range of careers available in the manufacturing and/or engineering sector. The programme also aims to increase diversity in the future workforce by promoting STEM careers to female students, who are underrepresented within the industry.
In October, Matt Lewindon, Managing Director at Sulzer, delivered guest speeches to 286 year 7 and 288 year 8 students from The Morley Academy and presented them with a plaque to commemorate the partnership between Sulzer and the school, managed by Ahead Partnership. In his speech, Mr Lewindon highlighted how Sulzer are using their technology in innovative ways to support the transition to decarbonisation including the use of Sulzer pumps for carbon capture, demonstrating the need for green skills within the engineering and manufacturing sectors.
So far in 2023, over 2,000 young people have taken part in the Sulzer Youth Engagement Programme. 75% of students said that the events increased their understanding of how to get into different careers and 68% said that taking part increased their interest in a career in engineering and/or manufacturing.
The programme has also helped enhance students’ confidence and transferable skills with 67% saying that the programme had increased their communication skills and 74% saying that it had increased their self-belief and confidence.
Sulzer colleagues have also seen positive outcomes from this partnership. A number of Sulzer employees worked with colleagues from across the business to lead workshops on lean methodology during the workplace visits. Following this, 100% of volunteers said that taking part gave them the opportunity to positively role model the world of work to young people, helping them to become more engaged with the business’s wider social value efforts.
Matt Lewindon, Managing Director of Sulzer said: “With the recruitment and skills challenges that manufacturing and engineering businesses like ours are currently facing, this is a great step towards helping secure talent pipelines for the future and ensure that those entering the sector are equipped with the right skills.
“It is wonderful to be able to open the eyes of young people and increase their awareness around STEM careers. These are increasingly crucial roles, and we are thrilled to be able to help young people to understand the wide variety of opportunities available to them and realise the key skills they can develop to enable them to succeed.”
The Morley Academy is part of The GORSE Academies Trust, of which Sir John Townsley is CEO. He commented: “We are delighted to have been able to offer such incredible opportunities to our students to learn from professionals in role about the different careers and routes into manufacturing and engineering. It is wonderful that our young people are able to gain invaluable insights from successful individuals representing a globally recognisable brand like Sulzer. Taking part in the programme has been hugely beneficial for our students and it is fantastic that many have been inspired to contemplate careers within STEM.
“Raising young people’s awareness of these opportunities is vital to empower them to navigate future career options. We are excited to hear that the programme is continuing for a third year to ensure that more of our young people are able to benefit.”
Faron Convey, Project Manager at Ahead Partnership said: “It has been great to see the positive impact of the Sulzer Youth Engagement Programme over the past two years. Working with a global brand like Sulzer has highlighted how highly regarded international businesses such as Sulzer can provide opportunities that could quite literally take young people anywhere.
“It is fantastic to see so many of the young people involved say that they feel their confidence has improved and that they are considering a career within the industry. We look forward to continuing to work closely together to empower young people in their career aspirations and build a more diverse and secure future workforce.
“We’re pleased that Sulzer has committed to the programme for another year to enable more young people to learn more about the industry and develop key skills.”
Source: Sulzer Ltd.
