SmartSTEMs Event

The SmartSTEMs event supports GCU’s commitment to gender equality and is a key part of our Athena SWAN activity. The event offers the opportunity to develop the following Common Good Attributes:

What’s involved?

Since 2015 GCU has underlined its commitment to inspiring more young women to get involved in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) by hosting the award-winning SmartSTEMs on the Glasgow campus in June each year. Engineering and science students plan and lead workshops for school students on campus to raise aspirations and promote career options in STEM disciplines, particularly for girls. External companies and SmartSTEMs volunteers host a number of additional workshops. There are also numerous internal and external exhibitors hosting demonstrations and hands-on activities on the day, while over 40 GCU student volunteers help run the event.

The SmartSTEMs event supports GCU’s commitment to gender equality. It is a key part of our Athena SWAN activity. This national scheme recognises a commitment to supporting and advancing women’s careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine in higher education and research. By focusing on pupils who are about to select their subjects at school, it is hoped that this event will help better inform them about engineering, computing and other STEM subjects, and improve their understanding of the relevance of STEM as future career options for women. It is intended to inspire female pupils to seek a future career in STEM. Last year’s event won a Herald ‘Inspiring City’ Award.

How will participating in this activity/opportunity allow students to make a positive difference in the communities that we serve?

Being a STEM Ambassador is about engaging and enthusing young people with STEM subjects. You will help encourage students to consider further study of STEM subjects and progression into related careers, inspiring the next generation of STEM professionals. It offers the chance to give something back to education and the wider community, whilst giving you the chance to develop your skills and improve yourself.

What are the benefits of taking part in this activity/opportunity for participating students?

Participating students have the opportunity to develop new skills and knowledge, gain practical experience, and make a positive and tangible difference within local schools.

Success stories

SmartSTEMs 2019 at Glasgow Caledonian University

Which School or department delivers/supports this activity?

The School of Computing, Engineering and Built Environment.

Which students can participate in this activity?

All students in the School of Computing, Engineering and Built Environment. Details will be circulated within the School as project opportunities arise.

Contact:

Name: Patricia Munoz de Escalona/Joanna Marshall
Role: SCEBE staff
Department/School: School of Engineering and Built Environment
Telephone: 0141 273 1432
Email: Patricia.Munoz@gcu.ac.uk Joanna.Marshall@gcu.ac.uk