Supporting young minds to remain connected to subjects that have the power to transform lives

My name is Ozge Dogankaya, Project Management intern, currently on my third year industrial placement.

Since studying Mathematics and Chemistry at A-Level, I have learnt the core elements, formulas, and theories that shape our existence today.

Joining Rolls-Royce has allowed me to see beyond the classroom application of science and mathematics into a live environment. Seeing the combination of technology and engineering in the industry, my horizon has broadened and interest for STEM further strengthened. I have seen engineers utilise formulas that I have previously learnt, which they have further developed to bring solutions to operational challenges in the Trent XWB programme. It gives me great joy to inspire young minds to be curious about their chosen discipline and see how their efforts will contribute to the bigger picture.

Becoming a STEM Ambassador has been a valuable milestone along the many opportunities throughout my placement. I enjoy inspiring the scientists and engineers of tomorrow to reach their potential, - whether that’s to enlighten and discuss their career path options, or to design, make and test their own air-powered rocket cars!

Whilst volunteering I was exposed to a range of audiences which enhanced my ability to connect with teachers, students and parents. This positively raised my confidence while understanding how best to gain the trust of our key stakeholders within the project. By challenging myself to deliver the project status updates, I was able to maintain lasting relationships with stakeholders to meet their interests and needs. Being an Ambassador has helped me to communicate at different management levels and ensure the key message is understood. In times of uncertainty along the critical path of a project, my ability to remain composed and collected has strengthened our stakeholder connections.

I attended the Graduate Engagement Programme as a panellist to support the transition of 50 diverse engineering students - each from ethnic minority backgrounds into engineering employment.

After reading through the pre-prepared booklet of student CVs provided a couple days prior to the event, I was naturally able to create and develop meaningful connections at the networking session to strengthen their interest in STEM and boost their confidence when it came to the application process.

In addition, the WorldSkillsUK Live event welcomed over 70,000 students of various ages, teachers and parents. I met an aspiring female engineer on the day and she explained how the lack of females enrolled on her university course has affected her willingness and confidence to apply to our engineering graduate programme.

As the top leading business within the aviation industry, I explained how the company has committed to increasing female employees by 25% by 2025 by signing the IATA pledge: Rolls-Royce signs up to ITAT’s 25by2025 campaign

Rolls-Royce recognises the need for a more gender equal environment and is actively cultivating an inclusive workplace by combatting the gender related assumptions. Ambassadors across the UK continuously strive to excite young minds – regardless of gender – by bringing to life a future shaped by tomorrow’s technologies and solutions.

Finally, I am incredibly pleased to have volunteered 30 hours and earnt the STEM Ambassador Engagement badge. I am keen to continue making a positive impact by reaching out as an online e-mentor and through podcasts, - ultimately ensuring the next generation of young minds remain connected to the subjects that have the power to transform our lives.

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