Morgan Sindall Infrastructure has announced a collaboration with STEM Returners to facilitate the re-entry of professionals into the infrastructure sector, particularly the energy domain, following career breaks. This programme, aimed at individuals who have paused their careers, seeks to bridge the gap in the workforce by offering structured support and career development.
The partnership involves STEM Returners sourcing candidates and providing them with comprehensive career coaching and mentoring during a paid placement. Participants will gain hands-on experience within Morgan Sindall Infrastructure’s energy business, with initial placements located in Motherwell and other UK locations. The programme focuses on strategic frameworks ensuring a stable electricity supply and minimising service interruptions for clients such as Scottish Power and Scottish and Southern Energy Networks.
Research from STEM Returners highlights significant hurdles faced by individuals attempting to re-enter STEM fields after a hiatus. Factors such as bias against recent experience gaps, alongside gender, age, and race discrimination, are prominent barriers. This initiative aims to dismantle these obstacles by offering genuine work experience and professional support, thus revitalising candidates’ confidence and encouraging them to remain within the STEM sectors.
Natalie Desty, Director of STEM Returners, emphasised the need for more professionals in construction and infrastructure, noting that career gaps often disadvantage candidates. She remarked on the importance of this programme in reforming recruitment practices and providing a supportive return-to-work environment. Peter Kirk, Managing Director – Energy at Morgan Sindall Infrastructure, acknowledged the critical need to address the sector’s skills shortfall, especially with the UK’s National Grid investment surge. He reiterated the company’s commitment to facilitating the return of skilled STEM professionals to their careers.
Since its inception in 2017, STEM Returners has successfully integrated over 600 candidates into various programmes across the UK. For more information on current opportunities, visit https://stemreturners.com/live-programmes/.
