Engineering is key to ensuring economic growth and improving quality of life. Despite the projected rise in demand for engineering talent, there is a shortage of those desiring to undertake engineering courses. Reasons for this include low confidence of schoolteachers in teaching engineering-related topics, misconceptions around the role and relevance of engineers to society, and the absence of an enabling environment for pupils.
The University of Dundee and the Association for Black and Minority Ethnic Engineers Scotland addressed these issues by building diverse teams comprising engineering professionals, students, and schoolteachers in Dundee. These teams underwent training in public engagement before developing a range of practical engineering activities aligned with curriculum requirements.
The activities created became part of a STEM library that local schools could borrow to showcase engineering technology through hands-on activities. These teams engaged with children during the delivery of activities in schools and took part in a public celebration day, promoting engineering role models within the community.
