Robert's extensive work on skills and apprenticeships has transformed opportunities across the UK. As Skills and Apprenticeships Minister, he changed careers advice to ensure apprenticeships were promoted in schools, launched the Skills for Life campaign and supported the development of UCAS for Apprenticeships to give apprenticeships equal status with university applications.

Marisa graduated from the University of Cambridge with a Master’s degree in Aeronautical and Aerothermal Engineering and her career in product design and systems engineering within the automotive and power electronics industries has seen her land roles with Jaguar Land Rover, Triumph Motorcycles, Lyra Electronics and Aeristech. She’s currently Head of Engineering for the custom battery manufacturer Raeon. 

Together, Steph, Robert and Marisa discuss how to improve access to apprentices, the need to reduce red tape and increase funding, and tackling gendered stereotypes and stigma around vocational routes.

00:00 Introduction to guests

00:35 Marisa’s Engineering Journey

01:38 Robert’s Skills Mission

08:19 Gender Stereotypes in Schools

10:09 Why ‘Making’ Matters

11:46 Facing Bias and Inclusion

12:30 Women in Engineering Gains

13:02 Apprenticeships Boom

13:48 School Outreach Reality

14:39 Fixing Careers Guidance

18:53 Apprenticeships and Mobility

22:59 Removing Stigma 

26:56 Thanks and goodbye 

Get in touch with us at sospod@enginuity.org

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Stephen has spent 35 years as a leading industrial figure and has worked directly for government in a number of appointments. He tells us about Make UK’s rich history and role supporting manufacturers with services, including training and running one of the UK’s largest apprentice training centres. 

He also shares his own story of being an apprentice and the prestige it held. 

With the sector facing around 50,000 vocational vacancies and a sharp fall in engineering apprentice starts - from about 130,000 pre-2016 to 45,000 last year after the Apprenticeship Levy - Steph asks Stephen and Ann what needs to happen to ensure a future pipeline of workers in manufacturing and whether the Government is doing enough to support the industry. 

Together they discuss the challenges of an ageing workforce, SME funding and cost pressures, confusion from frequent policy changes, the need to fix Further Education provision, and improve access to levy funds.

Stephen also offers his own opinion on the role of AI and why we should remain optimistic that it will be beneficial for the sector.

00:00 Live from Make UK at the QEII Centre

00:36 Meet Make UK

01:35 Stephen’s Own Apprenticeship Story

04:10 Manufacturing Snapshot

08:28 SME Barriers And Costs

11:08 Government Solutions Push

14:29 The Need for Design & Technology in Schools

18:22 The Urgency for Joined Up Policy

20:49 AI Impact on Manufacturing

22:37 Final Thanks

Get in touch with us at sospod@enginuity.org

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The pair reminisce about the first time they met, which happened to be at Wimbledon, and bond over their shared North East upbringing and work ethic. 

Jeff asks how Steph balances being a broadcaster, writer, novelist, podcaster, and mum; as Steph explains the reasons behind her drive to keep busy. 

Steph describes how her attendance at a city technology college sponsored by British American Tobacco, exposed her to technology, science, strong funding, practical projects with local businesses, and broader career possibilities and why that played such an important role in the opportunities which came next.

She also recounts early rejection from BBC Cleveland after being told she ‘wasn’t the right type for the BBC’, and details how she eventually started working in broadcasting through persistence and behind-the-scenes roles, before a BBC Breakfast Editor changed the trajectory of her career by challenging internal attitudes about regional accents and putting Steph in front of the camera.

The conversation returns to Steph’s work with Enginuity as she explains why she’s eager to support women in engineering and improve social mobility particularly in her home region. 

00:00 Welcome and Introductions

00:31 First Meeting at Wimbledon

02:41 Work Ethic and Roots

04:20 School That Sparked Engineering

06:20 Careers Advice and Finding Your Thing

08:12 Money and Women in Engineering

09:00 Breaking into Broadcasting

11:14 Accent Bias and BBC Breakthrough

15:10 Creating Opportunities Through Scholarships

16:57 Writing Crime Novels and Never Slowing Down

18:49 Final thoughts

Get in touch with us at sospod@enginuity.org

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Jorja tells us about her less conventional route into chemical engineering, including how attending a nuclear and radiochemistry summer school in Leeds introduced her to the topic and how she juggled taking an extra course to meet entry requirements while working, post A-levels, as an assistant restaurant manager. 

Jorja discusses the impact of being diagnosed with Asperger’s late in Year 11, and how it’s helped her own understanding of the way she processes and thinks, and the benefits that has brought. 

Now in second year, Jorja shares why she started the Process Engineering Society at Teesside University, the need for more early representation to encourage girls into engineering and her own career goals. 

She tells us why funding support through Enginuity has helped her focus on her studies by reducing financial burden and lowering her stress and outlines her next steps including her hopes for her upcoming placement year.

00:00 Meet Jorja: Chemical Engineering student at Teeside University 

01:01 The Summer School That Sparked a New Path 

01:58 Finding a Route In: Access Course, Working Life & Learning From ‘Wrong Turns’

02:59 Mental Health & Late Autism Diagnosis: Understanding Yourself

05:05 Big Influences: Mum’s Entrepreneurial Drive & Resilience

05:58 Starting Uni Without the ‘Right’ A-Levels: Imposter Syndrome, Being One of Few Women

07:14 Thriving in Year 2: Launching the Process Engineering Society

08:29 Placements and Career Goals 

11:15 Why She Loves Engineering: Challenge, Passion, and Hyper-Focus

11:36 Women in Engineering: Representation, Stereotypes, and Starting Young

12:59 Career Switch & Confidence: ‘Academic Enough’ vs Real-World Skills

15:17 Life Beyond Uni

17:33 Funding & Support: How Scholarships Reduce Stress and Keep You Focused

18:58 What’s Next: Placement, Grad Role Goals

Get in touch with us at sospod@enginuity.org

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The comprehensive discussion takes a look at the current UK apprenticeship ecosystem, its strengths and weaknesses and how to address the challenges which are hampering the supply chain of new talent for the UK manufacturing and skills industries. 

Chris shares stories from his own experiences starting out in the steel industry, and tells us why he’s dedicated to promoting apprenticeships. Plus why he believes government initiatives can expand apprenticeship opportunities, improve flexibility, and enhance the recognition of vocational training. 

00:00 Introduction to National Apprenticeship Week

00:23 Interview with Chris McDonald: Background and Current Role

03:14 Government Support for Industry Skills Transition

03:45 Balancing Net Zero Goals with Business Growth

06:01 Expanding and Improving Apprenticeships

10:36 Challenges and Solutions in Apprenticeship Systems

13:22 Promoting Apprenticeships and Skills Training

18:18 Addressing Social Mobility and Local Opportunities

19:37 Challenges Faced by Disengaged Youth

20:38 Innovative Apprenticeship Programs

22:49 Personal Experiences and Reflections

27:24 The Role of SMEs in Apprenticeships

28:55 Government's Role in Supporting Industry

31:04 The Future of Manufacturing in the UK

36:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Get in touch with us at sospod@enginuity.org

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Based on a farm in a North Cornwall village the family run business employs 70 staff, including three apprentices – making them a significant employer in the area.

Harry shares the history and evolution of the family business from its humble origins as a small candle factory to its role as a significant player in the market and discusses how the company has overcome challenges along the way, including the untimely death of his father, Tim, who was co-founder of the brand.

The episode also delves into the importance of apprenticeships and vocational training, with Cameron sharing the decisions which led him to an apprenticeship, and his ambitious plans for the future.

Together with Steph they discuss the need for greater awareness and support for apprenticeships, the role of local colleges, and community engagement in recruitment and training efforts, highlighting the benefits for both businesses and young people.

00:00 Welcome 

00:22 Meet St. Eval Candles

00:52 The Journey of St. Eval Candles

03:09 Cameron's Apprenticeship Experience

04:34 The Importance of Apprenticeships

07:24 Challenges and Community in Cornwall

16:36 Future Plans for St. Eval Candles

20:01 Cameron's Future Aspirations

21:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

This episode was recorded in December 2025.

Get in touch with the podcast at sospod@enginuity.org

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Abigail, Munachi and Katie are all students at Teeside University and share their individual journeys into engineering, revealing what sparked their passion for the subject, who have been their role models, and their aspirations within their specific branches of engineering.

They discuss the importance of visibility and support for women in STEM, the diverse opportunities within engineering and how, as future engineers, they aim to solve global challenges. The students also talk about how the scholarship will have a meaningful and positive impact on their studies.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:07 Meet the Scholarship Recipients

00:49 Abigail's Journey to an Engineering degree

03:14 Munachi's Path to Chemical Engineering

06:56 Katie's Passion for Electrical Engineering

12:00 Challenges and Solutions in Engineering

16:02 The Importance of Engineers for Society’s Future

17:47 Final Messages

Get in touch with us at sospod@enginuity.org

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Lee shares the current state of apprenticeship starts, regional growth patterns, and the lasting impact from Covid-19. 

Steph and Lee highlight the ongoing challenge of changing perceptions towards vocational training versus university education, and the need for better school signposting. 

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background

00:45 Current State of Engineering Apprenticeships

01:48 Regional Differences in Apprenticeship Growth

03:00 Challenges and Trends in Vocational Education

04:32 The Value of Apprenticeships vs. University

09:19 Survey Insights on Vocational Education

12:06 Policy and Future Directions

18:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Get in touch with us at sospod@enginuity.org

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The virtual hub aims to unify and amplify the voices of the 325,000 SMEs in the engineering and manufacturing sector, ensuring the collective body get their say in the UK policy debate. 

Nicola explains the importance of the Policy Centre in addressing the unique challenges faced by SMEs, such as attracting skilled labour and navigating a rapidly changing policy landscape. 

The discussion covers how the Policy Centre plans to gather data, convene discussions, and use both qualitative and quantitative insights to advocate for meaningful policy changes. 

Plus find out how SMEs can participate in an upcoming survey (launching on the 26th Jan) to strengthen collective advocacy efforts.

00:09 Introducing the Policy Centre

00:48 The Importance of SMEs in the UK

02:14 Challenges Faced by SMEs

05:40 Policy Centre's Role and Collaboration

07:00 Engaging with SMEs

11:22 Current Initiatives and Future Plans

12:38 Call to Action for SMEs

13:22 Conclusion and Contact Information

Get in touch with podcast at sospod@enginuity.org

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Santa shares his insights on the most requested and innovative toys, and why he believes kindness and hard work make can set people up for an exciting future.

Steph and Santa also delve into how STEM and AI are used in daily life, offering advice for nurturing children's curiosity in these fields. 

Plus, Santa delivers some Festive Wishes from the engineering and manufacturing industry. 

Santa also offers a humorous look at how to survive the demands of the season as he shares his festive cheer.

00:00 Santa Takes Over the Show

00:13 Festive Period and Santa's Insights

00:57 Santa's Busy Schedule and Christmas Spirit

02:23 Santa's Science and Engineering Wonders

05:40 STEM and Inspiring Young Minds

09:09 Festive Wishes to Support Small and Medium Businesses

13:53 Gifts, Gingerbread Houses, and Final Thoughts

Get in touch with us at sospod@enginuity.org

With special thanks to Santa from NE1 and Newcastle City Council’s ‘Newcastle’s Christmas’ in collaboration with Evnt Inspirations www.newcastleschristmas.com

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The father-son duo, based in Norfolk, talk about the evolution and impact of apprenticeships in the engineering sector. 

They discuss the history of their SME contract manufacturing business and their dedication to training young talent and creating a talent pipeline.

They share their innovative approach to engaging students and explain how they’ve created a long-standing relationship with local schools and the council. 

Plus, they reveal the personal story behind their commitment to overcoming barriers and fostering a skilled workforce.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:22 Founding the Business: A Family Affair

01:59 Challenges and Evolution of Apprenticeships

02:59 Engaging the Next Generation

08:30 Overcoming Dyslexia and Personal Challenges

10:42 Building Strong Community and Educational Partnerships

17:02 Advice for Businesses and Future Workforce Development

22:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Get in touch with your feedback and ideas at sospod@enginuity.org.uk

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With over two decades of experience in engineering, Paul manages the development of the 2026 race engine – or power train – making him the man who could make or break the team’s success next season. 

Having recently completed her apprenticeship, Hannah has followed in her father’s footstep by joining the automotive industry and is a Dimensional Quality Assurance Inspector, with the job of checking her dad’s engine components!

Together they discuss their career journeys, sharing the exciting, high-paced nature of Formula One engineering and the role apprenticeships and practical skills have played in their career development. 

Steph also asks how we change perceptions of a career in engineering, especially for women and girls, and Hannah and Paul offer their own opinion on the topic.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:17 Paul's Career Journey

05:07 Hannah's Career Path

09:21 Encouraging the Next Generation 

13:44 Challenges and Advice for Aspiring Engineers

18:02 Conclusion and Farewell

To share feedback, ideas or comments you can get in touch with the podcast at sospod@enginuity.org.uk

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Andrea sits on numerous committees and industry bodies and is a passionate campaigner, desperate to reshape the manufacturing industry so it flourishes. 

In this conversation she shares insights into the challenges and triumphs of running a specialist subcontract machining company, speaks honestly about the shortcomings of Further Education Colleges in providing relevant training for young people, and emphasises the dire need for governmental support tailored to SMEs. 

Andrea also tells us why she believes tax credits for training and development might help address the current skill gaps, and highlights the necessity for better support and ecosystem in vocational training. 

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:23 Overview of Hone All

00:51 Diverse Range of Products

01:31 Current Business Climate

02:21 Challenges in Skill Acquisition

03:44 Issues with Further Education

08:19 Proposed Solutions for Skill Development

14:37 The Importance of Vocational Training

17:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Get in touch with your comments, ideas and feedback at sospod@enginuity.org.uk

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From rediscovering passions in their 30s to juggling parenting with training, the apprentices talk about the ups and downs, the skills they’ve learned, and the strong sense of community that powers their progress.

00:00 – Welcome Back to Harland & Wolff

01:00 – Meet Naomi: From Farming to Fabrication

02:30 – Meet Andole: The 17-Year-Old with Big Dreams

03:45 – Meet Dean: The Apprentice Dad

05:00 – Meet Lisa: From Milking Cows to Steelwork

06:30 – Building a Diverse, Supportive Culture

08:00 – Finding Belonging and Breaking Barriers

09:00 – Juggling Work, Study, and Parenting

10:15 – Why They Chose Apprenticeships

11:30 – What Skills Do You Really Need?

13:30 – The Power of Communication & Community

14:30 – Job Security and Career Opportunities

15:30 – Advice for Anyone at a Crossroads

16:30 – Ambitions: From Supervisor to CEO

17:45 – Final Thoughts and Farewell

Get in touch with the podcast with your comments, feedback and ideas via sospod@enginuity.org.uk

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Broadcasting from the iconic Titanic Room, the discussion delves into the rich history of the shipyard, its cultural significance, and the community spirit that defines the workplace. 

Brian shares his personal journey from an apprentice in 1980 to a managerial role, explaining the importance of passing down skills to the new generation. 

Kat outlines recent developments, including a significant investment from Spanish shipbuilding company Navantia aimed at reviving and modernising the yard, with an emphasis on integration of new technologies, digital innovations, and advanced training programmes. 

They also discuss the company's focus on building new Navy vessels, the diverse career opportunities available, and the importance of fostering a supportive, family-like atmosphere for apprentices. 

00:00 Welcome to Steph on Skills

00:39 The Iconic History of Harland & Wolff

02:10 A Community Like No Other

02:39 Brian's Journey from Apprentice to Manager

04:34 Reviving Shipbuilding in Belfast

07:10 The Future of Shipbuilding: Innovation and Skills

08:41 Finding the Right Fit: Apprenticeship Stories

10:52 Qualifications and Attitude: What We Look For

11:49 Understanding the Roles: Speed Worker vs. Welder

12:43 Workplace Environment and Regeneration

13:37 Expanding Apprenticeships Beyond Technical Roles

14:30 Importance of People in Engineering

15:38 Innovative Training Methods

17:27 Defence Industry Opportunities

18:57 Changing Gender Dynamics in Trades

19:29 Personal Stories and Mentorship

21:15 Parental Role and Support

22:01 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser

Get in touch with the podcast with your comments, feedback and ideas via sospod@enginuity.org.uk

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Minister for Skills, Baroness Jacqui Smith, unveils the Government’s new plan to rejuvenate skills provision and her desire to put some ‘oomph’ into her colleagues at Westminster.

Steph and the Minister, in a no holes barred 45-minute conversation, talk of their passion re-educate the media and politicians, on the importance of skilling people of all ages.

Jacqui Smith talks of the UK’s ‘hideous waste of talent’, with nearly a million young people not in education, employment or training and her wish to ensure that vocational training never retreats to the shadows of academia. 

Having taken time out from supporting Team UK, at the EuroSkill Finals in Herning, Denmark, the Minister tries her hand at live reporting and reveals that she has tried her hand at welding!

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As Education and Industry Engagement Manager for MEGA (Manufacturing & Engineering Growth & Advancement) – a collaborative network in Northern Ireland, that promotes manufacturing and engineering as sources of high-value employment -  

Elita leads various educational initiatives to inspire careers in manufacturing and engineering, and she shares why she is so passionate about careers in STEM. 

Susan is CEO of Savvy Teens, an Irish business providing transition year work experiences for companies in Ireland. She is also the author of seven books, including five textbooks for teenagers, and a national radio presenter. 

Their initiative, funded by Inter Trade Ireland, connects schools with industry to provide hands-on experience in engineering and manufacturing. 

Together they discuss the importance of work experiences, structured support, and cross-border collaboration in preparing students for the workforce. 

The conversation also highlights the need for scalable models and broader industry participation to address skill mismatches in today's rapidly evolving job market.

00:00 Welcome to Steph on Skills

00:07 Meet Our Guests: Elita Frid and Susan Hayes Culleton

00:31 Elita's Journey in STEM Outreach

02:25 Susan's Passion for Skills Development

05:14 Engineering Across the Border: A Collaborative Project

07:56 Understanding the Education Systems

12:46 Impact and Future Goals

20:02 How to Get Involved

21:35 Conclusion and Contact Information

Get in touch with the podcast with your comments, feedback and ideas via sospod@enginuity.org.uk

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Newcastle College's Assistant Principal Catherine Orridge shares how the college is working to fulfil its goal to ‘unlock potential’ for anyone who wants to engage in their diverse range of courses and, alongside Al Parkes, Managing Director of EAL and a member of Enginuity’s Executive Leadership Team, they talk about the importance of celebrating vocational achievements. 

Mohammed Mahmood, who earned the title ‘Best of British’ at the Enginuity Skills Awards 2025, reveals his inspiring personal journey as an apprentice, and Alexia Williams, Technical Lead in the defence sector at Rolls-Royce, details why she is a passionate advocate for STEM apprenticeships.

Ben Blackledge, CEO, for WorldSkills UK also joins Steph to explain how the WorldSkills UK Centre of Excellence programme is changing the UK’s skills landscape. 

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Katy shares her journey from accountant to manufacturing leader, offers insights into her multifaceted role in the manufacturing sector and discusses the formation and success of Citizen Hub, an innovative organisation designed to bridge the gap between job seekers and employers while offering skills training and career advice. 

Steph and Katy explore how the hub addresses the local skills gaps and the importance of community-driven employment solutions, including why we need more ‘angry lovers’ who care enough about these issues to take action. 

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:31 Overview of Cap Air Systems

01:32 Job Roles and Team Dynamics

03:36 Katy's Career Journey

06:48 The Birth of Citizen Hub

09:02 Challenges and Solutions in Employment

11:40 Citizen Hub's Evolution and Impact

12:55 Creating a Welcoming Environment

13:18 Partnerships and Collaborations

14:24 Community Support and Services

15:01 Engaging the Community

17:15 Impact and Success Stories

18:39 Expanding the Initiative

19:18 Replicating the Model

21:15 Addressing the Skills Gap

23:46 Empowering Local Communities

25:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Get in touch with the podcast with your comments, feedback and ideas via sospod@enginuity.org.uk

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Andrew is Technical Adviser, Building Services Engineering for EAL, whilst Joe is Head of Work Based Learning and VTQ Delivery at Educas and together they explain the purpose of T Levels and how they bridge the gap between purely academic and purely vocational education as well as the role they play in covering crucial pathways for the demand in the skills sector for Electrical, Plumbing & Heating, Gas, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration, Protection Systems and, from 2026, Low Carbon Heating.

Andrew and Joe talk about why T Levels are suitable for a wide range of learners as well as offering various exit routes such as university, work, or higher-level apprenticeships and share the importance of employer feedback in the process as the qualifications continue to develop.

The conversation also highlights how T Levels are preparing students for the industry with up-to-date skills and knowledge so that young people are ready for work from day one.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:24 Backgrounds of the Guests

01:32 What are T Levels?

02:51 Generation One vs. Generation Two T Levels

03:34 Feedback and Improvements in T Levels

06:21 Who are T Levels For?

12:08 Employer Engagement and Real-World Experience

16:55 Keeping Up with Technological Changes

22:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Get in touch with the podcast with your comments, feedback and ideas via sospod@enginuity.org.uk

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They discuss Logan's experiences and learning journey at HF Bond, highlighting the inclusive and supportive environment of the company and why it matters to be hired for your talent not box ticking. 

The conversation covers Logan's entry into welding, the importance of apprenticeships in diversifying skills, and challenges and opportunities for young people in the engineering sector. 

Andy and Logan emphasise the need for educational reform to better prepare students for diverse career paths and the importance of employer involvement in schools. 

00:00 Welcome to Steph on Skills

00:08 Meet Logan Perez-Grey and Andy Heffer-Lamond

00:26 Logan's Journey in Welding and Fabrication

01:19 Challenges and Inclusivity in the Workplace

01:54 Andy on Finding the Right Talent

03:20 Day-to-Day Life as a Welder

06:21 The Importance of Creativity in Engineering

09:11 Education and Career Guidance

14:14 Advice for Aspiring Welders

16:09 Supportive Work Environment at HF Bond

18:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Steph, Ann and Poppy examine the Government’s white paper on immigration and its potential ramifications for SMEs in the manufacturing and engineering sectors. 

Poppy and Ann highlight the Government's assumptions about reducing immigration to spur domestic skill acquisition, and the flaws in the current skill system that may hinder this vision. 

They also discuss the essential role of immigration in filling critical skill gaps, the necessity for a long-term national skills plan, and the undervaluing of technical education in the UK. 

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:22 Current Immigration Policies and Their Impact

02:47 Challenges for SMEs and Skills Shortages

04:20 Government's Role and Timing Issues

05:33 The Importance of Long-Term Planning

08:21 Valuing Technical and Vocational Education

14:22 The Need for a National Skills Plan

20:17 Cultural Shifts and Transferable Skills

31:12 Conclusion and Call to Action

Get in touch with the podcast at sospod@enginuity.org

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Kirbi discusses her fascinating role in ensuring all control equipment meets the high standards required for large-scale shows, including those of international musical superstars and West End shows.

Steph talks to Kirbi about her journey from a heavy industrial background to the entertainment sector, the challenges she faces as a woman in engineering, and how she feels seeing her work in action on stage. 

We also hear valuable insights on how to get into the engineering field, the importance of practical experience, and Kirbi’s aspirations to manage her own team in the future.

00:00 Introduction and guest welcome

00:21 Behind the Scenes of Entertainment Engineering

00:39 The Role of a Controls Testing Technician

00:55 Equipment and Operations in Entertainment

03:10 Personal Journey into Engineering

05:25 Challenges and Opportunities for Women in Engineering

09:31 Future Ambitions and Career Goals

10:45 Encouraging the Next Generation

17:25 Final thoughts

Get in touch with the podcast at sospod@enginuity.org

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Having recently concluded her role as interim chair at the Office of Nuclear Regulation and having led the independent review on building safety following the fire at Grenfell Tower, Dame Judith currently chairs an Industry Safety Steering Group, while since leaving his role as CEO at Siemens, Jüergen has transitioned from advising on industrial strategy to chairing Great British Energy, the UK's publicly owned clean energy company. 

The conversation delves into the importance of mentoring, the significance of diversity, the opportunities within clean energy, and the potential of a skills passport for career mobility. 

Plus, Jüergen and Judith offer their views on the controversial world of geo-engineering and share why we should be concerned at its uses. 

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions

00:33 Dame Judith Hackitt's Career Journey

01:05 Jüergen Maier’s Role at Head of Great British Energy

02:16 Rewinding to Early Career Choices

03:27 Mentorship and Influence

06:00 Skills Landscape in the Industry

07:50 Future of Clean Energy and Job Creation

10:32 Challenges and Opportunities in Skill Development

13:50 Diversity and Inclusion in Engineering

15:07 The Importance of Diversity in Engineering

15:49 Introducing the Digital Skills Passport

16:53 Learning from Global Models

17:35 Challenges in the UK Skills System

19:13 The Future of Engineering and Geo-Engineering

21:39 The Role of Ethics in Engineering

23:51 Optimism for the Future of Engineering

28:37 Final Thoughts

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Mike shares his ‘accidental’ journey into engineering and how it led to the backbenches at the House of Commons, discussing the challenges he faced and the motivations behind his career switch. 

He also talks about the impact of austerity on public projects, and his passion for public procurement and infrastructure. 

Mike also delves into the significance of modernising the construction sector, his vision for the future of engineering and automation and whether modernising manufacturing could also help address the issue of immigration.

Steph and Mike also reveal their own innovative ideas for recruiting for careers in engineering. Could their ideas help solve the skills gap?

00:00 Introduction

00:59 Mike's Journey to Politics

02:19 Election Night and Becoming an MP

04:01 Early Career in Engineering

05:41 Transition to Public Procurement

07:21 Political Frustrations and Joining Labour

10:00 Addressing the Skills Shortage

10:49 Automation and the Future of Work

13:35 The Role of Government in Adult Learning

13:54 Addressing Immigration and Job Automation

15:31 Government's Role in Industrial Strategy

17:09 Future of Engineering Jobs

19:35 Vocational vs. Higher Education

21:20 Primary and Secondary Education Reforms

To get in touch with the podcast email sospod@enginuity.org

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Jamie, dubbed the ‘real-life Willy Wonka’, uses his factory to teach kids and families about the science and engineering behind chocolate production. 

He discusses the motivation behind his endeavour and the innovative ways he combines chocolate and STEM education to inspire the next generation. 

Steph, Ann and Jamie also chat about the importance of practical learning and the potential for small businesses to make significant impacts in their industries.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:23 Meet Jamie Ashpole: The Real-Life Willy Wonka

00:30 The Chocolate Factory Experience

01:09 Creative Chocolate Products

02:00 Inspiring the Next Generation of Engineers

09:19 The Science and Technology Behind Chocolate

10:19 Jamie’s Career and Future Plans

11:50 Encouraging Practical Learning in Schools

18:56 Final Thoughts and Farewell

To get in touch with the podcast email sospod@enginuity.org

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Ruth shares her journey from aspiring lawyer to accidental inventor, detailing her early invention, the StairSteady, and her subsequent efforts to inspire young people in STEM fields.

Steph and Ruth discuss the importance of creativity, lifelong learning, the value of real-world experience and the need for businesses to actively support and engage with young people. 

00:00 Introduction to Steph on Skills

00:52 Meet Ruth Amos: Accidental Inventor

01:31 The Journey into Engineering

06:06 Kids Invent Stuff: Inspiring Young Minds

10:58 The Power of Social Media in Education

14:45 Encouraging STEM Careers

26:23 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

To get in touch with the podcast email sospod@enginuity.org

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They delve into the evolving landscape of degree apprenticeships, addressing regional and national growth in vocational skills and highlighting the collaborative efforts between universities and industries to create enriched learning experiences and tackle the skills gap. 

They also discuss the societal impact of engineering and the importance of diversity in the field, aiming to dispel myths and encourage both young people and those changing careers to consider apprenticeships. 

Learn about the significant benefits of apprenticeships, the innovation happening within Teesside’s engineering department, and how universities are working together to support the region and society’s talent needs.

00:00 Introduction to Steph on Skills

00:16 Meet the Experts from Teesside University

00:37 The Role of Apprenticeships in Universities

02:18 Teaching and Research at Teesside

03:57 The Shift Towards Degree Apprenticeships

06:57 Exciting Research and Projects

09:35 How to Get into Apprenticeships

12:28 Addressing the Gender Gap in Engineering

16:46 Career Changes and Social Mobility

22:13 The Role of Parents and Final Thoughts

To get in touch with the podcast email sospod@enginuity.org

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mel Stewart, an award-winning welder, also joins the conversation to share her journey into welding, the adversities she faced and how she overcame them. 

Mel explains the importance of apprenticeships, the gender gap in engineering, and some of the adventures on which her career path has taken her. 

Ann highlights the exciting opportunities in the field, the demand for skilled workers and why it’s a great time to consider a career in engineering. 

The discussion also touches on the need to make academic subjects more relatable to real-world applications and the potential impact of new technologies on the industry.

00:00 Welcome to Steph on Skills

00:33 Understanding the Skills Crisis

01:55 Meet Mel: An Award-Winning Welder

02:26 Mel's Journey into Welding

06:11 Facing Adversity in a Male-Dominated Field

08:05 The Changing Landscape of Welding

10:32 Opportunities and Future of Engineering

17:26 Encouraging the Next Generation

22:12 Final Thoughts and Farewell

To get in touch with the podcast email sospod@enginuity.org

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen to short highlights from a conversation between host, Steph, and the CEO of Enginuity, Ann Watson, as they touch on topics and themes you can expect to hear more about in the new series.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.