National Grid and STEM Returners are joining forces for the third time to help more STEM professionals return to work after a career break.
The new programme will see roles based across the country and is part of National Grid’s Accelerate social mobility initiative, which has already helped 10 people return to the workplace.
The 12-week paid placement aims to support professionals struggling to return to their careers through standard recruitment channels, providing access to training and employment opportunities in the energy sector.
Nicolette Whittaker joined National Grid during the last programme after a seven-year career break.
With previous experience in marketing, sales and project management, she joined the programme as a social impact co-ordinator. After three weeks, she was offered a permanent role on the team.
“The programme was so important for employers to see the transferable skills that I had built up over the years and allowed me to experience a different interview process than the traditional one, which was very reassuring,” Whittaker explained.
“I’ve felt incredibly supported by both STEM Returners and National Grid. When I started, I had a ‘buddy’ who would answer any questions I had, and I’ve been eased into the role. But now I am flying and I’m so happy.”
The ‘hidden workforce’
STEM Returners will source candidates for the National Grid programme and provide career coaching and mentoring throughout the paid placement. At the end of the programme, returners may be offered the opportunity to become permanent employees.
Natalie Desty, director of STEM Returners, said: “We know that the need for experienced and talented people to fill green energy roles is growing across the sector. But there is a hidden workforce that can help fill those roles who are often overlooked.
“People who have had a career break face an uphill battle to return to the industry – there is a misconception that a gap on your CV leads to a deterioration of skills, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.
“Many returners keep themselves updated with the developments from their industry and have developed transferable skills that can benefit employers.”
Fergus Hynd, senior manager social mobility for National Grid, added: “Our mission to develop talent pipelines from non-traditional sources goes from strength to strength.
“Working with our fantastic social mobility partners, like STEM Returners, has seen 89 people join our organisation in the UK in the past two years. We are excited about the future of this partnership.”
