A presentation from the STEM Annual Conference 2014.
This presentation showcases Interconnect: the network for women studying science engineering technology and the built environment in Scotland. Developed in partnership with NUS Scotland the project has engaged with over 1000 students at 15 institutions across Scotland and women from over 60 companies and organisations since its inception in 2008. It enhances students’ experience by meeting their needs through site visits networking lunches and employability workshops. Women are generally in the minority on science engineering and technology (SET) courses. They make up only 16% of the engineering and technology students in Scottish Universities. Research carried out at Edinburgh Napier University indicated that women students who are in male dominated areas of study want:
- Social contact and support
- Contact with recent graduates and women working in the field
- Careers advice and links with industry
Interconnect responds to these needs. Interconnect Student Champions act as ambassadors for the network and work with staff to promote and develop activities for students at their college or university. Working with students as partners via Student Champions the network has made a real difference to the experience of women studying STEM subjects. When asked 73% of students had increased confidence in themselves or their career choice and 79% of students had developed their network by meeting women in industry employers and other women STEM students. Interconnect is part of the Scottish Resource Centre for Women in Science Engineering and Technology- the Scottish Government's delivery partner for projects to increase the participation of women in SET education and employment.
