A decade of impact, equity and opportunity in STEM
Ten years ago, a corporate social responsibility initiative by a Glasgow-based cybersecurity firm sparked what would become a movement for change. That initiative, led by Stuart Macdonald of SERIC, brought 500 young people to Glasgow Caledonian University for a single-day event to explore opportunities in STEM. On Friday 13 June 2025, SmartSTEMs returns to where it all began, Glasgow Caledonian University, once again welcoming 500 young people through the doors, not just to learn about science, technology, engineering and maths, but to see themselves in it.
SmartSTEMs has grown into a national charity with a mission to ensure that every young person, no matter their gender, background, ethnicity, location or belief system, has equal and fair access to STEM education and career opportunities. Over the past decade, SmartSTEMs has reached more than 70,000 young people and engaged with over 5,500 schools across the UK.
Reflecting on the journey, Stuart Macdonald, SmartSTEMs founder, said
“What began as a one-off idea to support young people into STEM careers quickly revealed a gap far wider than we expected. We didn’t set out to start a charity, but the response from schools, young people and industry partners made it clear, this work was needed. We know that great things happen when great people get involved; ten years later, we and our partners have had the privilege of working with tens of thousands of young people, and we’re only just getting started.”
SmartSTEMs enduring relationship with schools like Hillhead Primary, who attended the very first event and continue to take part ten years on, is a testament to its lasting impact. A teacher from Hillhead Primary said
“Our pupils… enjoyed everything from bridge building and code breaking to plumbing and wheel fitting. These events open up the world of STEM as a place where anything is possible for young learners, and STEM as a way we can shape the world we want. This is why we love SmartSTEMs and hope it continues and grows for many years to come.”
In the early days, the charity’s core focus was on tackling gender imbalance in STEM. That remains important, but as the STEM skills gap deepened, so too did our purpose. Today, SmartSTEMs plays a pivotal role in creating equity of opportunity by reaching pupils aged 10-14 at a crucial point in their lives. This work is delivered not just through large scale events, but increasingly through in-classroom experiences, targeted projects, and deep collaboration with both academia and industry.
This milestone event, supported by global digital transformation leader Atos, represents the kind of partnership that defines SmartSTEMs success. Atos shares our commitment to embedding STEM skills where they are needed most and understands the role of early intervention in building resilient, future-ready communities.
SmartSTEMs work isn’t just about the future of the STEM sectors, it’s about the future of young people. It’s about building confidence, raising aspirations, and breaking down barriers. It’s about showing young people that STEM is not only for someone else, it’s for them.
As we mark ten years of impact, we’re proud to return to where the journey began, and even prouder of where it’s heading next. One day. 500 young people. Countless futures changed.
Translating Complexity Into Curiosity
At SmartSTEMs, we believe that the best ideas don’t sit in silos, they move, adapt, and spark change when shared across boundaries. That’s why collaboration is at the heart of everything we do. One of the clearest demonstrations of this was our role in the GEMINOA project, where we partnered with the University of Strathclyde and Glasgow City Council to engage schools across the city in the science of air quality and environmental health.
This wasn’t a one-way relationship where academics “delivered down” into schools. It was a conversation, an active exchange of knowledge. And that’s where SmartSTEMs sits: in the space between cutting-edge research and classroom curiosity, helping to bridge the gap between what experts know and what young people need to understand.
Working with university researchers, we took complex ideas like air transport modelling, particulate pollution, and IoT-enabled urban sensors and found ways to make them tangible, playful and memorable for pupils aged 10 to 14. That often meant swapping specialist language for storytelling, or reimagining data science as a game. Instead of talking about gas dispersion algorithms, we asked pupils: “What happens when someone farts in a room?” It’s silly, it’s fun, but it works. Suddenly, abstract science becomes personal and relevant.
Prof Craig Michie, Head of the Centre for Intelligent Dynamic Communications within the department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, University of Strathclyde put it plainly:
We explained the concepts, and SmartSTEMs ran with it.” And that’s what we do best. We listen, we learn, and we translate.
By working closely with the research team, we built a programme that stayed true to the science while making it accessible to a younger audience. As Prof Michie said:
“SmartSTEMs were well versed in simplifying messages. Their enthusiasm was infectious – and this is a key element to communicating with the general public.”
What made this partnership so effective wasn’t just our shared ambition; it was a mutual respect for what each organisation brought to the table. The university team had world-class expertise. We had years of experience in education, engagement and inclusion. Together, we reached over 2,300 pupils across 28 schools, many of whom wouldn’t normally have access to such opportunities.
Crucially, the collaboration built trust, not just between project partners, but with the communities we serve. Teachers saw the benefit of hands-on, engaging STEM content linked to curriculum outcomes. Pupils left sessions more confident and curious. And researchers saw their work come to life in classrooms and halls across Glasgow.
Craig described the experience as:
“exemplary… fun, easy to work with, infectiously positive”
And the feeling is mutual. We’re proud to be a trusted partner for universities and research institutions who want their work to have real-world impact.
At SmartSTEMs, we don’t just believe in knowledge exchange, we live it. If your department is looking for a way to bring research to life, connect with diverse communities, and inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers, we’d love to hear from you.
Because when collaboration clicks, complexity becomes curiosity and that’s where the magic starts.
Powering Futures: SSEN Subsea and SmartSTEMs Partnership Impact
Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks Subsea (SSEN) joined forces with SmartSTEMs to ignite a passion for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) in remote and rural communities across the Scottish Highlands and Islands. Through events in Inverness, Shetland, and Orkney during 2023-24, this partnership has brought STEM education to the heart of these communities, inspiring future innovators and building closer ties between industry, education, and local residents.
Inspiring the Next Generation Interactive workshops, engaging speakers, and hands-on activities made STEM come alive for hundreds of pupils. SSEN volunteers, passionate advocates of the energy sector, guided young participants through STEM topics, sharing real insights from their own careers and projects. This direct engagement didn’t just teach pupils about STEM—it sparked genuine curiosity and ambition.
Building Community Beyond the Classroom The impact of this partnership extended well beyond the classroom. By providing goodie bags filled with practical tools and career information, SSEN offered students a tangible reminder of STEM’s possibilities and strengthened the bond with local families. These efforts help to create a sense of belonging and showed that industry is invested in the future of these communities.
Creating a Legacy of Opportunity The events have left a lasting impact. Over 600 pupils from 18 schools engaged in over 2,600 hours of STEM learning, discovering how STEM careers can shape real-world solutions and inspire critical thinking. Beyond the immediate event, SSEN’s presence showcased a range of exciting STEM careers, bridging the gap between education and local employment opportunities. This connection has encouraged pupils to consider STEM pathways, enriching the relationship between SSEN and the island communities and building mutual trust and support.
A Pathway to a Brighter Future The partnership between SSEN Subsea and SmartSTEMs has left an indelible mark on Scotland’s Highlands and Islands. By inspiring young minds, promoting STEM learning, and strengthening community connections, SSEN and SmartSTEMs have set the stage for a future where innovation thrives, paving the way for long-term community growth and prosperity.
SmartSTEMs Takes Off: Inspiring the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals
SmartSTEMs partnered with Connected Places Catapult on the Connected Airports: Glasgow Future Skills project. This initiative aimed to excite young people about careers in Scotland’s aviation industry. Through interactive events, industry interaction, and the creation of educational resources, the project successfully connected students with potential career paths.
Engaging Students in Aviation
The program delivered a series of well-received events at Glasgow Kelvin College and Ayrshire College. Over 200 students, ranging from senior high school pupils (S5-6) to foundation apprentices and college students, participated in these events. Students learned about diverse aviation careers and had the chance to interact directly with industry professionals. Engaging lesson plans were also created for schools, sparking an interest in aviation amongst younger students.
Project Highlights
Lesson Plan Development: Two Scotland-specific lesson plans were created, one for primary schools and another for secondary schools. These resources aim to ignite a passion for aviation and related STEM fields.
College Events: Successful events held at Glasgow Kelvin College and Ayrshire College provided a platform for students to explore career options, ask questions during industry talks, and gain valuable insights from professionals.
Industry Engagement: Ten aviation partner companies participated in the project. They showcased exciting opportunities like modern apprenticeships, graduate apprenticeships, and entry-level roles. Students participated in Q&A sessions with industry experts, gaining valuable knowledge about career progression, future trends, and emerging technologies.
“Navigating Innovation” Challenge: A unique challenge titled “Navigating Innovation: Balancing Creativity and Compliance” was designed for each event. This activity focused on promoting creative problem-solving within aviation regulations, emphasising the importance of ethical decision-making. This activity was tailored towards students pursuing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) qualifications.
Measurable Impact
The project delivered significant benefits for students, colleges, and the aviation industry:
- Increased Awareness: Over 200 students gained exposure to the diverse and dynamic world of aviation careers.
- Industry Connections: Direct interaction with industry professionals provided students with invaluable career insights and the opportunity to build lasting connections.
- Collaboration and Sustainability: Both colleges expressed interest in future collaboration. Ayrshire College plans to rerun the event in January 2025, while Kelvin College explores joint ventures with West College for future aviation events. The project’s success has also established connections with organisations like BA, Loganair, and Spirit Aerosystems, paving the way for their participation in future events.
- Educational Resources: The created lesson plans offer valuable teaching tools for Scottish educators, enriching aviation education in schools.
Location Snapshot
The project funding from Connected Places Catapult enabled SmartSTEMs to deliver these events to students from various schools across East Renfrewshire, East Dunbartonshire, Glasgow, South Ayrshire, and North Ayrshire.
Looking Ahead: A Thriving Aviation Industry
This project successfully ignited a passion for aviation careers amongst young people. By creating valuable educational resources, increasing industry awareness amongst students, and establishing a foundation for continued collaboration with colleges and industry partners, the project has a lasting impact. SmartSTEMs remains committed to building upon this success and inspiring the next generation of aviation professionals.
Positive Feedback
Student feedback reflects the project’s success. One participant expressed their gratitude and newfound inspiration to pursue a career in aviation. This project is a prime example of SmartSTEMs’ dedication to connecting young people with exciting career opportunities and building a future generation of skilled professionals across all pillars of STEM.
Dervla’s Story: A New Pathway Discovered with SmartSTEMs
Dervla’s journey highlights the transformative potential of SmartSTEMs events in helping young people reimagine their future. Before attending the SmartSTEMs Inspire event with Nine Twenty Engineering in September 2019, Dervla was focused on a career in the arts, spending hours each week immersed in drawing and dreaming of becoming an animator or illustrator. However, that single event sparked a newfound interest in STEM that reshaped her academic and career ambitions.
A Change of Direction: Inspired by Connections The turning point for Dervla came through engaging with industry professionals, including a recent J.P. Morgan graduate who shared an enthusiastic vision of technology’s impact and the range of career paths within it. Another pivotal moment was hearing Gillian Docherty OBE speak about data science’s role in space exploration, broadening Dervla’s understanding of the vast possibilities in STEM.
“I remember gaining a brand-new insight into the world of STEM. It gave me the chance to meet a range of STEM professionals and learn about the varied careers they pursue. Until then, I hadn’t fully realised just how exciting a STEM career could be, which led me to consider following that path.”
An Evolving Passion with Ambitious Goals Since then, Dervla’s interest has grown into a love of computer science, especially AI and algorithm design. She has attended a Computer Science accelerator course at the University of Cambridge, where she developed a predictive model to help educators gauge student emotions from writing samples. Additionally, she received the Hopper Award from dressCODE last year. Dervla’s involvement with SmartSTEMs has not only introduced her to a new field but also influenced her choice of subjects for her National 5s, with a focus on computing science, space, and data science as potential career routes. Predicted to achieve top grades in Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Computing Science, Biology, English, Psychology, and PE, she plans to advance to Higher courses in Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Computing Science, and English.
I hope to attend an Oxbridge university after school to pursue a degree in computer science. I’d like to follow this with postgraduate study, aiming for a career in academia. I’m excited by the future of computer science and believe it holds many exciting opportunities.
A Lasting Impact: Inspiring Others Dervla’s story demonstrates how SmartSTEMs can ignite new passions. Her shift in focus, coupled with her achievements since, underscores the impact of these events in shaping future aspirations for young people across Scotland.
Dervla is a clear example of how SmartSTEMs events can turn a student’s direction. Before the SmartSTEMs Inspire event with Nine Twenty Engineering in September 2019, Dervla was set on a more artistic path. She was determined to be an animator or an illustrator, spending hours every week drawing and sketching. But the event sparked a passion for STEM that totally changed her academic and career goals.
St. Kevin's Pupil Eilidh McGuinness Shines with £500 Commsworld Poster Prize Win
Pupils and staff from St Kevin’s Primary in Bargeddie are on top of the world after one of their classmates won a £500 prize for the school from telecoms communications provider Commsworld.
We partnered with Commsworld and North Lanarkshire Council, to hold a host of workshops this year for more than 1,000 young people in schools and colleges across North Lanarkshire to encourage them to consider careers in science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM).
At the end of each workshop, they urged those taking part to design a poster that explains what Commsworld or the internet means to them.
St Kevin’s pupil Eilidh McGuinness wowed the judges with her design that told what Commsworld and the internet means to them: providing the connectivity to check their glucose/blood sugar levels and aid their health.
Presenting the cheque to Eilidh and Head Teacher Michelle Toolan, Commsworld Marketing Manager Martina Corr said: “Many congratulations to Eilidh and St Kevin’s. Her poster design summed up their excellent engagement during our workshops, as well as their enthusiasm for the internet and all things STEM. We hope this acts as a springboard for future success in pursuing a STEM career.”
Eilidh McGuinness said: “It was wonderful to hear that I’d won the prize for the school – I still can’t believe it. I’m so proud of myself – it was great to see the final version of my poster and know that it will be used in many ways throughout the country.”
Provost Kenneth Duffy also attended the presentation: “Huge congratulations to Eilidh and everyone at St Kevin’s on their achievement on winning this competition – the poster really did look first class,” he said.
Stuart Macdonald, Found and CEO of SmartSTEMS, said: “Eilidh’s poster is a brilliant example of how young people can connect their everyday lives to the possibilities within STEM, showcasing both talent and practical thinking. Initiatives like these empower pupils to see themselves as future STEM leaders, and we’re so proud to play a role in inspiring the next generation.”
Apprenticeships in Connectivity - Online event 12th Feb
The telecoms industry needs more young people to join the sector. With 60% of engineers over 50 and demands for connectivity increasing, now is a good time for young people and career changers to consider a career in connectivity.
UKTIN Talent [delivered by WM5G] is hosting an exclusive online event as part of National Apprenticeship Week.
Join BT Group, Vodafone and Virgin Media O2 and their apprentices, who will be discussing the broad range of apprenticeship roles from level 2 to level 7, tech and non tech, plus the amazing perks and benefits on offer.
Schools, colleges, teachers, careers leads and parents/carers are most welcome to join us.
Early booking recommended: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/national-apprenticeship-week-careers-in-connectivity-tickets-1101052269979
Any queries please contact clare.mckee@wm5g.org.uk UKTIN Talent Lead
Bridging the Gap: Why Businesses Must Step Up to Tackle the Educational Divide
As both a business leader and the founder of SmartSTEMs — a charity dedicated to ensuring that all young people have equal access to STEM role models — I’ve seen firsthand the impact that opportunity, or the lack of it, can have on a child’s future.
In the UK, we pride ourselves on a strong educational heritage, yet the stark reality remains: a child’s postcode too often dictates their prospects.
The divide in educational attainment between children from affluent backgrounds and those growing up in poverty is glaring. It limits the potential of too many bright young people and diminishes the scope of their opportunity. The challenge we face is not only how to narrow this gap but how businesses can be a driving force for change.
The Power of Opportunity
Research tells us that children aren’t just held back by the experience of poverty itself, but by a lack of exposure to more affluent environments and networks. Children from low-income households face multiple barriers that go beyond the material — they lack the social capital that comes from being surrounded by aspiration, opportunity, and role models who can show them the path to success.
This is where businesses can play a pivotal role. By opening up workplaces, sharing expertise, and connecting young people to professional networks, we can help transform the futures of children from disadvantaged backgrounds. The more we expose young people to environments where achievement and innovation are the norm, the more we can raise their aspirations and give them the tools to realise their full potential.
The Responsibility of Business
Education has traditionally been seen as the remit of schools and governments, but business has an essential part to play. Businesses are part of the communities in which we operate, and we rely on a well-educated, capable future workforce. It’s in our interest to ensure all young people have the opportunities they need to succeed, particularly in high-growth sectors like STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths), where the demand for skills continues to rise.
At SmartSTEMs, our mission is to make sure that every young person, regardless of their background, has the chance to meet and learn from STEM role models. Exposure to role models in science and technology can ignite a passion in young people, but it also shows them that success in these fields is attainable, regardless of where they start. For businesses, this isn’t simply about corporate social responsibility — it’s about investing in the talent pipeline of tomorrow.
Closing the Attainment Gap
In Scotland, efforts like the Pupil Equity Fund (PEF) and the Scottish Attainment Challenge have made strides towards addressing the gap in educational outcomes. However, these initiatives cannot be left to government and schools alone. Businesses must step up and act as partners in the drive for equality.
How can we make a difference?
1. Partnerships with Schools: Businesses can form long-term relationships with schools in deprived areas, offering work placements, internships, and career guidance. These partnerships give students invaluable real-world experience and open their eyes to career paths they might not have considered. SmartSTEMs can help build these connections and ensure that they’re not only impactful but ongoing.
2. Apprenticeship and Work-Based Learning: Apprenticeships are a key route for young people, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to gain practical skills and secure employment. Businesses can provide these opportunities, helping to build confidence and future career prospects in sectors where there is a skills shortage, such as STEM. Reach out to your local DYW coordinator or get in touch with Skills Development Scotland, for more information on how you can secure some of our next generation of talent for your business.
3. Mentoring and Role Models: Businesses can establish mentoring programmes that connect professionals with students, offering advice, encouragement, and access to networks that might otherwise be beyond their reach. Mentors can play a crucial role in guiding young people through complex decisions about education and careers. SmartSTEMs regularly supports businesses in setting up these schemes, ensuring both students and mentors get the most from the experience.
4. Addressing Digital Exclusion: The pandemic highlighted the digital divide, where many young people from low-income households were unable to access online learning. Businesses can help by providing devices, internet access, and digital literacy training, ensuring that no child is left behind in an increasingly digital world. At SmartSTEMs, we’ve already seen the difference that improved digital access makes to a child’s education, and we’re keen to work with businesses to expand these efforts.
5. Inspiring STEM Futures: The UK’s thriving technology and innovation sectors hold the key to future economic growth. Businesses in these areas must engage with schools to inspire the next generation, offering workshops, role models, and exposure to exciting careers that are within reach, no matter a young person’s background. If you’re struggling to access schools, or don’t know where to begin, reach out to the SmartSTEMs team and they can help put you in touch.
Collaboration Is Key
The educational attainment gap isn’t just an issue for schools or government—it’s an issue for society as a whole. For businesses, especially those in high-growth sectors like STEM, there is an undeniable role to play in creating opportunities for the young people who need them most. By stepping up and becoming active partners in education, we can help to level the playing field and ensure that all young people, regardless of where they come from, have the chance to succeed.
The UK’s future prosperity depends on it. If we want a society where opportunity is equal, where potential is realised, and where talent is nurtured regardless of background, then businesses must be at the forefront of driving this change. The time to act is now.
Opening Doors to Digital Futures with Telefonica Tech
SmartSTEMs and Telefonica Tech have united in a partnership dedicated to empowering young people from underrepresented communities and backgrounds in Scotland.
Through interactive events and hands-on workshops, this project is creating equal opportunities for young people to connect with industry networks, gain practical knowledge, and be inspired by relatable role models.
In an era where digital skills are essential, SmartSTEMs and Telefonica Tech are committed to ensuring that every young person, regardless of background, has access to quality STEM education and inspiring career insights. By collaborating with schools in areas that may lack tech resources and professional role models, this partnership is helping to close the opportunity gap, equipping young people with skills, confidence, and connections that can shape their futures.
Partnership Impact: Collaboration is Key
- Digital skills workshops for 1100 pupils in Central Scotland
- Engaged with 13 schools across Glasgow, Edinburgh, and West Lothian
- Delivered 6,876 hours of digital skills
- 10 Telefonica Tech employees contributed over 30 hours of volunteering time
We worked with Telefonica Tech to create a bespoke workshop centred around the journey of bringing a technology product to market. This hands-on experience introduces pupils to the various roles and teamwork needed to create real-world tech solutions, sparking curiosity and excitement for potential future careers in the industry.
Telefonica Tech employees play a vital role in the programme’s success, volunteering their time and expertise to provide guidance and mentorship. So far, 10 employees have contributed over 30 hours as workshop hosts, marketplace exhibitors, speakers and critical friends, sharing their experiences and offering a realistic, approachable perspective on the tech industry. These sessions have made the tech sector feel relatable, encouraging pupils to see these pathways as accessible and achievable.
Creating Long-Term Value and Expanding Opportunity
The programme continues to grow, with events planned across Scotland and the development of new workshops and resources focused on AI and emerging tech fields. These upcoming activities will further connect pupils with inspiring learning experiences, nurturing the skills essential for future careers in technology.
The partnership between SmartSTEMs and Telefonica Tech demonstrates how targeted, inclusive engagement can create meaningful social impact. By opening doors to the tech sector for young people in Scotland, this collaboration is helping to build a more diverse and skilled future workforce, ensuring every young person has the chance to succeed in our digital age. This commitment to education, opportunity, and inspiration is paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive digital future.