Putting young people on track for a career in STEM

An interactive exhibition encouraging children and young people to consider a future career in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) is coming to Hopetown Darlington in October.

Around 40 local STEM businesses are expected to support the two-day event which will welcome around 2,000 children aged 10 to 13 from schools across Darlington.

Headline sponsored by global power technology leader, Cummins, 'Destination STEM Hopetown' will showcase the diverse range of STEM careers available across the region. Young people will have the chance to take part in wide range of practical, fun-filled, activities relating to the STEM sectors, enabling them to make real world connections between what they are learning in the classroom and the world of work. They will also have the chance to meet and speak with real people, doing real jobs.

Cllr Chris McEwan, cabinet member for economy, Darlington Borough Council, said: "The STEM sectors are a significant and important part of our local economy; offering highly skilled, well-paid jobs which will help people to remain living and working in the town once they have completed their education. We continue to work hard to attract STEM businesses to the town and a key part of this is making sure there are enough skilled people to fill their roles. Events like this are a great opportunity to get children and young people excited and interested in STEM careers and highlight these as a realistic and desirable prospect for their futures."

Gareth Jones, Community Involvement Leader at Cummins, said: “We are passionate about inspiring the next generation of innovators, problem solvers and change-makers. We’re proud to be the headline sponsor of Destination STEM Hopetown, an event that aligns perfectly with our commitment to education, community engagement and the future of STEM.

“By connecting young people with hands-on experiences and real-world role models, this exhibition opens their eyes to the exciting possibilities a STEM career can offer. Events like these are critical to building a diverse and skilled talent pipeline, not only for Cummins but for the wider region. We look forward to welcoming students, sharing our knowledge and enthusiasm and helping them see just how far their curiosity and ambition can take them.”