SEStran today welcomed our new colleague Sophie Pugh to the organisation. Sophie has joined us on a 15 week summer placement organised through Equate Scotland’s Careerwise programme. It seeks to address through student placements the under-representation of women in science, engineering, technology and mathematics (STEM) sectors in Scotland.
Currently it is estimated that only 25% of the STEM sector are women. Not only is this a waste of talent and opportunity but it jeopardises Scotland’s chances to be at the forefront of innovation. Scotland’s strategy for inclusive growth needs a thriving STEM sector in Scotland to be globally competitive and relevant. To do this we need that sector to be diverse. Scotland needs 140,000 more engineers by 2020; whilst underusing half of its population so getting more women into STEM careers and enabling the environment for them to remain in the STEM sector long term is vital.
Angela Chambers, Business Manager at SEStran commented “We are all excited to work with Sophie over the summer and were impressed with all the candidates who applied for the placement but we bowled over by Sophie’s clear interest in the post and enthusiasm for transport and improving outcomes for the communities of the South East of Scotland. SEStran has recently committed to a new set of equality outcomes as part of our public sector equality duties and this placement was a key action within those commitments.”
Talat Yaqoob Director of Equate Scotland said: “It has been excellent working with SEStran over the last year and we are encouraged that they are taking a holistic and strategic approach to women’s under-representation in the organisation and in the transport sector. By making a 50/50 pledge on their Board and working with us on positive action placements for women STEM students, they are showing real commitment in this area and we hope more organisations follow their lead.”
Sophie Pugh said “Whilst on placement at SEStran, I hope to expand my knowledge of Regional Transport Strategy and planning, making lasting connections with people whilst collaborating on some interesting projects, it is an exciting opportunity.”
Welcome aboard Sophie!
