Bouygues UK has been shortlisted for the ‘STEM Educational Programme of the Year (Private Sector)’ Category of the Wales STEM Awards
The nominees for the ‘STEM Educational Programme of the Year (Private Sector)’ category in the Wales STEM awards have been announced- and Bouygues UK is the only construction company in the list of 34 finalists.
Nominated for its STEM schools programme of activity, which includes its ‘Girls Believe Academy’, Bouygues’ programme runs across the whole of the UK.
It addresses the skills gap by demonstrating to young girls who are at the critical stage in their career decision-making, the diverse career options that can be had in construction and engineering.
The programme provides role models of women in construction for young girls
Launched in 2021 by Bouygues UK’s women’s network WeLink, the academy trains its staff to become academy ambassadors.
The selected ambassadors reflect Bouygues UK’s diverse workforce and have a range of roles at every level in the business.
They are encouraged to share their own career experiences, offering real-world examples of how they got their role, the subjects they studied at school and the enriching experiences they have had following a career in construction and engineering.
Leigh Hughes, Bouygues UK’s business growth and social value director, said regarding Girls Believe Academy’s nomination for the Wales STEM award: “The focal feature of the academy is to showcase the amazing women who have been instrumental in the construction of some of the most challenging and recognisable buildings around the world. This project also helps promote our internal network of STEM ambassadors, building a sense of community and shared responsibility within our own organisations.
“Using the academy as a springboard for further engagement and opportunity, young people who have taken part have gone on to do work experience with Bouygues UK and in companies within our supply chain. The opportunity for industry engagement is significant, especially for those who are facing barriers to engagement or are at a disadvantage due to social and economic circumstances.
“Bouygues UK is committed to addressing the skills gap in our industry, while also achieving gender parity in construction and engineering roles by inspiring young women to consider a career in construction and engineering.”
Bouygues UK also offers insight to young women in construction through a virtual work experience platform
This platform, formed in collaboration with Aspire2be, gives young learners an insight into Bouygues UK and the range of STEM-focused roles which exist in the business.
It helps its ambassadors provide an impactful learning experience to help young girls continue to build awareness of the opportunities that the construction industry can offer, while also developing knowledge and skills through STEM and curriculum-focused activities.
Simon Pridham, managing director of Aspire 2Be commented on the nomination for the Wales STEM award: “Our work with Bouygues UK over a number of years has been an absolute pleasure. As a fully responsible employer they completely understand the importance of engaging with young people and educating them in an exciting way around future skills, employment opportunities and STEM subjects in general. We are proud and privileged to call Bouygues UK partners at Aspire 2Be.”
All Wales STEM award finalists across the 12 categories will be considered by an industry-leading panel of judges, with the winners being announced at the awards ceremony at the Mercure Cardiff Holland House Hotel on 27th October 2022.
