Edinburgh Airport launches STEM Centre

Edinburgh Airport has officially opened its on-site STEM Centre in a bid to help inspire future careers.

The facility has been created to encourage the next generation of young people into the world of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM), and was officially opened by Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes and renowned astrophysicist, Dame Professor Jocelyn Bell Burnell.

The centre, opened on International Women’s Day, can host a full school class, with sessions delivered by volunteers working in various roles across the airport – from IT and engineering to analytics.

Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes (right) and renowned astrophysicist, Dame Professor Jocelyn Bell Burnell.

These will include:

• Sessions showcasing the wide array of STEM roles at the airport.
• Interactive STEM experiments – including puzzles and problem solving – designed to spark curiosity.
• An opportunity to get inspired abut a future career in STEM.

This comes as the airport, part of the VINCI Airports network, continues to make progress against its Greater Good sustainability strategy through the provision of quality jobs, early careers opportunities, skills and training for all.

Gordon Dewar, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Airport said: “Providing opportunities for young people is something we’re really passionate about, and this fantastic new space will encourage bright and active young minds to get excited about a potential future career in STEM. As Scotland’s busiest airport – and as a major employer in the area – it’s our duty share the benefits of the airport with those closest us, and we look forward to welcoming local schools and educational groups to the facility.

“We also understand the important of a diverse workforce and want to inspire young girls and women into STEM careers, making clear that there are opportunities in aviation and beyond for their expertise and knowledge. I know how hard our teams have worked to make this happen, so it’s a proud day for everyone involved, and we all look forward to seeing this new facility providing inspiration and lasting memories for those who use it.”

Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: “I am clear that any barriers to participation in STEM activities for all young people, and particularly girls, must be challenged and overcome. This initiative from Edinburgh Airport is a great example of a major employer taking action, in partnership with schools, to boost opportunities for STEM learning and experiences for young people across Scotland.”

Professor Dame Jocelyn Bell Burnell said: “Puzzles and activities like the ones we had on display are all about experimentation, and it’s important to keep trying – that’s how we learn. Please keep exploring and pushing boundaries – it’s what helps us thrive and enables today’s younger generation to become tomorrow’s inspiring figures.”

The article Edinburgh Airport launches STEM Centre first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.