Partner Article

STEM event plants seeds for future careers

Last week in Darlington, the STEM Hub, delivered by RTC North, organised a hands-on STEM Net Zero event in partnership with Teesside University and Durham University, which proved a remarkable success. 

The event was delivered as part of the Research England Hydrogen Innovation Project (REHIP), funded by Research England.

REHIP is a pioneering collaboration between Teesside University and Durham University, aimed at catalysing the decarbonisation and advancement of hydrogen technologies in the Tees Valley. 

The ambitious four-year, £11 million initiative leverages the combined strengths of the two institutions to drive innovation, research, and capacity building in the region.

The event engaged over 1000 young people aged 9 to 14 from the region. 

By showcasing opportunities within the renewable energy and sustainability sectors, the event aimed to encourage interest in future careers that will help build a more sustainable world.

Seventeen STEM-focused businesses with a strong commitment to sustainability participated in delivering fun and interactive classroom sessions, offering a valuable opportunity for businesses to connect with their future workforce by showcasing their companies and career pathways, strengthening their relationships with the schools.

Professor Nashwan Dawood, Research Director at Teesside University’s Net Zero Industry Innovation Centre, said: “Developing future-ready skills that enable innovation and support our graduates and the communities we serve to meet the challenges of tomorrow is a key part of Teesside University’s mission.

“As the UK transitions to a net-zero future, it is vital to engage the young people who will be critical to the success of the green economy.

“Therefore, we were delighted to support this fantastic event and welcome the next generation of green innovators to our campus to learn about the opportunities and challenges presented as we move to a more sustainable future.”

Students explored the world of electric vehicles, discovering how they are charged through an engaging presentation and a lively game show complete with prizes.

They also participated in a fun and fascinating experiment where they built bridges using Milky bar white chocolate, learning about the principles of welding and structural strength along the way. 

Another standout activity challenged students to design their own model eco-friendly schools making decisions about renewable energy sources within a set budget in land area - an exercise that encouraged critical thinking and creativity. 

The event also featured VR setups, robots, and carbon footprint activities, all of which contributed to an educational experience that was both interactive and enjoyable.

Feedback from students highlighted how inspired they felt to act against the climate crisis – whether through everyday choices at home or by pursuing sustainability-focused careers in the future.

Many expressed a newfound interest in green careers after attending the event, which offered a wide range of engaging, interactive activities designed to spark curiosity and encourage hands-on learning.

In addition to the day’s regular activities, the first day of the event featured a Women in STEM networking session, which was well attended and provided a valuable opportunity for female exhibitors and women working in STEM fields locally to connect. 

The event helped expand professional networks and opened doors for potential collaboration and future opportunities.

Dawn Ross, Partner Liaison Coordinator at the STEM Hub, added: “It’s been a real pleasure working with Teesside University and Durham University on the REHIP programme. 

“We were proud to bring together schools and businesses for this exciting event and the feedback we’ve received from participants has been incredibly positive. 

“It’s inspiring to see so many young people learning about the importance of sustainability and exploring the wide range of careers that support a net-zero future. This is a testament to the power of collaboration in creating meaningful impact.”

The partnership between the STEM Hub, Teesside University, Durham University, and the collaboration with various STEM-focused businesses highlights the importance of innovation and sustainability in building a more sustainable future. 

The event left a lasting impact on the young participants, motivating them to take action against the climate crisis and pursue careers that contribute to a sustainable world.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by RTC North .