SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY ENGINEERING MATH (STEM) CAREERS
Contents Newcastle Science City’s mission is to promote scientific excellence, create and
support innovative high growth-businesses, and engage the local community so that everyone can become part of our city’s conitinued scientific achievement. This eBook showcases the wide range of careers that are available to people who have studied STEM subjects at school, college and university. We will continue to add more STEM companies to this eBook to show as many STEM careers as we can, and some of the routes you can take to help you find a similar job.
Acknowledgements Thank you to all of the businesses and individuals who have given up their time to support us in our research. Through sharing your wealth of knowledge, experience and insight we have been able to produce this e-book resource. We will continue to use your expertise to develop the e-book further and to continue sharing the amazing work that is happening locally and the opportunities being created. LAST UPDATED: SEPTEMBER 2012 Every effort was made to ensure that information was correct at the time of original release (May 2012). Newcastle Science City reserves the right to amend information at any time.
04
Foreword
06
Medical Timeline
08
New Industrial Revolution
10
Key STEM Industries in the North East
14
Innovation Timeline
16
Introduction to STEM learning and training is STEM study or STEM job for me?
20
STEM Stars
34
STEM Learning & Training
56
STEM Contacts & Further information
64
STEM Industry Profiles
Foreword - How science led to a global career “When I graduated as a Chemical Engineer I went to work for British Steel, formerly Corus and now Tata Steel/SSI on Teesside. I spent a few years making liquid iron, where I was one of six women out of 4,500 men. My job, like most engineers, was problem-solving - figuring out what was going wrong and fixing it.”
The chance to travel “I spent three years on Teesside then I then moved to Alabama, USA with Corus to help start up a factory with a group of people from all parts of the World – Egyptians, Indians, British and American. My job there was to start up an iron-making plant that had been built in Scotland 20 years before, broken up into 27,000 pieces and rebuilt in Alabama with a workforce who had no experience in operations. On that facility I was in charge of safety and operations. In terms of safety, every day when you went to the office, the first thing you had to do was check your chair and desk as often rattlesnakes would be found curled up the legs! “Eventually, I came home and back to Corus at Teesside where not only was I boss of 250 men but I was the only female and the youngest person too. “ “I left Corus in 2004 and my current job is with the energy and water company Sembcorp running the operations and maintenance of a power station including the UK’s first major Biomass Power Station to be fuelled entirely by wood. I consider myself to have been very lucky in my career. It has been both exciting and varied and I’ve thrived on that, helping to make a success of my career and contributing towards the success of the businesses I’ve worked for.”
How to be successful “To be successful in business requires many things but a good education is usually the foundation of this success. I cannot 04-05 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
stress the importance of education. If you get good GCSEs it demonstrates to employers that you are not only intelligent, but capable of learning, working on your own, meeting deadlines and that you can work under pressure - all important skills that any business needs in its employees. “It is important to start thinking about your career now. You need to ensure your choice is broad enough to allow you to diversify if you need to, but not too broad that your education doesn’t easily fit into a career path. Engineering is extremely varied. You can end up as a designer, operator, repairer, builder or troubleshooter, like myself. Engineering disciplines are needed in a wide variety of industries from the biosciences to pharamaceuticals, brewing to food manufacturing as well as in the armed forces.“
The rewards “Pay is good, too. Five engineering disciplines feature in the top ten of graduate starting salaries. Dentistry is top at a starting salary of £29,805, chemical engineering is 3rd with a salary of £28,913 and you can do this qualification quicker! So think about what you want to do, research the subject, talk to people about what they do in their day job. List the criteria of what you want out of life and see if the career fits. For instance, I wanted a good wage, to travel and spend some time outdoors and some in an office. I wanted to deal with people and I wanted excitement, I certainly got that in my career.” Jane Atkinson, Vice President Utilities Operations, Sembcorp Utilities UK
STEM Careers Newcastle has always been a city of science. Down the centuries, pioneers in industry and medicine have made the city world renowned. This legacy continues because Newcastle is recognised for our world class scientific strengths, particularly in the fields of ageing and health, stem cells and regenerative medicine and sustainability. We have state-of-the-art facilities for stem cell and regenerative medicine at the Centre for Life, ageing and health at the Institute for Ageing and Health and the former brewery site will become Science Central, the hub for our expertise in sustainability. Newcastle Science City is promoting these strengths globally. We are supporting the expansion and growth of businesses by providing expert business advice and we work with schools and local communities so that everyone can become part of the city’s continuing scientific achievement, helping to create and develop our scientific community. In the growing knowledge economy, industry requires a workforce with a better understanding of science and technology. It needs staff to have adaptable skills and the flexibility to deal with ongoing rapid technological change. Understanding these changes and the opportunities they bring is vital to the economy of the City and the region as we move from our industrial past to playing an active role in the global knowledge economy. Newcastle Science City is working with science, IT and engineering employers across the region to understand the career opportunities that they offer and the skills they would like their employees to have. We have created this STEM Careers e-book so that you can find out more information about our Science and Engineering companies and the jobs and opportunities they are offering. This e-book has information from companies, research institutions, colleges and universities
across the region. We’ve put all of the STEM learning and training organisations in alphabetical order, followed by STEM information contacts and industry profiles to showcase the work they do and the extraordinary people who work for them. Not only is Newcastle a key hub for Ageing & Health, Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cells, and Sustainability, it is also central to professional business services and education (further and higher). Examples of such businesses positioned in Newcastle include: l l l l l l l l l l l l
The Sage Group Dickinson Dees LLP Muckle LLP Ernst & Young Ward Hadaway LLP KPMG Newcastle College Northumbria University Parsons Binckerhoff British Engines Group Newcastle University Carillion Energy Services
Did You Know‌?
Newcastle is the 37th most deprived Local Authority area in England (IMD, 2007) [Newcastle has a total of 26 wards]
The population of Newcastle in 2010 was 292,200.
The 16-64 population (previously known as the working age population) in 2010 was 204,900
In 2009, Newcastle had a jobs density of 0.93 (the jobs density reflects the ratio of total jobs [184,000] to the population aged 16-64yrs); this is 0.27 higher than the North East (0.66); and is 0.15 higher than Great Britain (0.78)
Large areas of the east end and west end of Newcastle fall within the 10% most deprived areas of England. There are also localised pockets of deprivation in the north west and centre north of Newcastle
Wards that are classed as disadvantaged in Newcastle are: Walker, Byker and Elswick. Wards where less than 50% of the population is disadvantaged: North Heaton, West Gosforth, Parklands, Castle, Westerhope and Lemington.
63.3% of Newcastle residents (aged 1664yrs) were in employment; this is 2.8% lower than the North East (66.1%) and 7% lower than Great Britain (70.3%) (Dec 2010).
(Dec 2010) 106,000 (51.0%) Newcastle residents (aged 16-64yrs) are qualified to level three and above
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70.4% of Newcastle residents (aged 1664yrs) were economically active; this is 3% lower than the North East figure of 73.4% and 5.8% lower than Great Britain (76.2%) (Dec 2010).
Wards with more than 50% deprivation: Walkergate, South Heaton, Ouseburn, Westgate, Benwell & Scotswood, Newburn, Wingrove, Kenton, Blakelaw, Woolsington, Fawdon, Newburn, Denton and Fenham.
13,800 Newcastle residents (as a proportion of the those who are economically active) were unemployed; this is 0.1% lower than the North East and 2% higher than Great Britain. (Dec 2010). 24,600 (12.5%) Newcastle residents (aged 16-64yrs) had no qualifications (Dec 2010). A total of 9,291 Newcastle residents were claiming jobseekers allowance at August 2011 (equivalent to 4.5%, this is 0.6% lower than the North East and 1.4% higher than Great Britain).
In 2008, 9,100 Newcastle residents were employed in manufacturing, 5,000 were employed in construction and 160,900 in services (including health, education and finance). (Dec 2010) 8,171 Newcastle residents were claiming jobseekers allowance (equivalent to 4.0% ,this was 0.7% lower than the North East and 0.5% higher than Great Britain).
POPULATION & ECONOMIC ACTIVITY By 2035, there will be an estimated 2.5 people of ‘working’ age for every one person over 65yrs, and only two people of ‘working’ age by 2050. Table 1: Most recent mid-year population estimates (2010) Population Estimates (mid-year 2010)
Newcastle
North East
England
Total Population
292,200
2,606,600
52,234,000
16-64 Population
204,900
1,699,700
33,861,400
Source: Office for National Statistics, via Nomis (www.nomisweb.co.uk) accessed January 2012
Although the economic activity rate of Newcastle has decreased slightly since July 2009-June2011 (0.2 percentage points), it has improved by an overall 0.9 percent point against the pre-recession figure of 69.2%, i.e. 10,900 more residents are economically active. Table 2: Most recent economic activity (2011) of the 16-64yrs population Economic Activity of 16-64yrs population (2011)
Newcastle
North East
England
Economically active
139,900 70.1%
1,224,800 73.1%
25,670,300 76.3%
124,800 63.0%
1,102,800 65.8%
23,657,300 70.3%
14,200 10.2%
122,000 10.0%
2,013,000 7.8%
Economically inactive
59,200 29.9%
451,800 26.9%
7,969,500 23.7%
Economically inactive and does not want a job
41,700 70.5%
346,000 76.6%
6,083,000 76.3%
(economic activity rate)
Economically active and in employment (employment rate)
Economically active and unemployed (unemployment rate)
Source: Office for National Statistics, via Nomis (www.nomisweb.co.uk) accessed January 2012 NOTE: Data shown is the most recent available and is at the period July2010-June2011
The employment rate of Newcastle is moving in a positive direction, having increased from 61.2% at June 2009 to 63.0% during July2010-June 2011, whilst during the same period, the unemployment rate has also been making positive movements. Although moving in the best direction, the unemployment rate remains 2.6% higher than pre-recession, with 4,400 more residents unemployed. Reasons for this include a reducing reliance upon public sector employment due to cutbacks. Similarly,, the impact on some industries and the wider supply chains in the North East is only just beginning to be felt.
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THE RESIDENTS Newcastle is a diverse city with residents from all backgrounds creating an interesting mix of skills, experience and knowledge: 86.0% of Newcastle residents are white (164,100); 1.6% mixed; 8.2% Asian; 1.8% Black; 2.6% Chinese and Other origins. Table 3 illustrates the ethnicity of Newcastle in comparison to the rest of the North East and England as a whole. Table 3: Mid-year population estimates of ethnicity by 16-64yrs population (2009) Experimental Data Estimated resident population
Newcastle
North East
England
ALL
191,000
100%
1,601,600
100%
32,083,300
100%
White: British
154,200
80.7%
1,455,900
91.0%
35,905,300
81.0%
White: Irish
1,300
0.7%
6,900
0.4%
318,000
1.0%
White: Other White
8,600
4.5%
38,400
2.4%
1,423,100
4.4%
600
0.3%
2,900
0.2%
152,500
0.5% 0.2%
Mixed: White and Black Caribbean
300
0.2%
2,000
0.1%
67,700
1,300
0.7%
5,200
0.3%
149,400
0.5%
800
0.4%
3,800
0.2%
126,500
0.4%
Asian or Asian British: Indian
6,900
3.6%
21,400
1.3%
1,033,600
3.2%
Asian or Asian British: Pakistani
4,400
2.3%
15,900
1.0%
643,500
2.0%
Mixed: White and Black African Mixed: White and Asian Mixed: Mixed Other
Asian or Asian British: Bangladeshi
1,900
1.0%
6,200
0.4%
246,500
0.8%
Asian or Asian British: Other Asian
2,400
1.3%
7,700
0.5%
273,500
0.9%
Black or Black British: Black Caribbean
1,100
0.6%
4,500
0.3%
411,000
1.3%
Black or Black British: Black African
2,100
1.1%
10,000
0.6%
566,200
1.8%
200
0.1%
1,000
0.1%
77,700
0.2%
Chinese or Other Ethnic Group: Chinese
2,100
1.1%
9,400
0.6%
354,200
1.1%
Chinese or Other Ethnic Group: Other
2,800
1.5%
10,400
0.6%
334,800
1.0%
Black or Black British: Other Black
Source: Table EE2, Population Estimates by Ethnic Group Rel.8.0, Office for National Statistics, 2011 (accessed January 2012) Note: These estimates are ‘experimental’ statistics and have not yet received formal National Statistics status. They should therefore be used with appropriate caution and awareness of their limitations.
Of the 292,100 Newcastle population, 17.5% of residents belong within the 35years to 49years age range (reflective of the regional and national populations), followed by 16.1% of residents falling within the 25years to 34years age group. At the regional and national level, the second largest proportion of residents is between 50 and 64years of age. Table 4: Mid-year population estimates by age (2010) Age
Newcastle
North East
England
0 to 14 years
43,200
14.8%
427,800
16.4%
9,151,100
17.5%
15 years to 19 years
21,400
7.3%
169,400
6.5%
3,266,400
6.3%
20 years to 24 years
42,900
14.7%
198,900
7.6%
3,605,700
6.9%
25 years to 34 years
47,000
16.1%
319,800
12.3%
6,894,800
13.2%
35 years to 49 years
51,200
17.5%
537,200
20.6%
11,291,200
21.6%%
50 years to 54 years
45,100
15.4%
504,400
19.4%
9,418,800
18.0%
65 years to 79 years
28,600
9.8%
327,200
12.6%
6,155,300
11.8%
80 years and above
12,700
4.3%
121,700
4.7%
2,451,300
4.7%
Total
292,100
100%
2,606,400
100%
52,234,300
100%
Source: Office for National Statistics, via Nomis (www.nomisweb.co.uk) accessed January 2012
This information suggests that there are opportunities for newly educated students and people currently taking a career break who may be considering returning to employment; current students and those who have recently graduated/educated can be exposed to the many STEM- related opportunities that exist in Newcastle and across the North East at apprentice and graduate level. Those who are thinking about returning to work following a career break could be encouraged to consider up-skilling or re-skilling to take advantage of the many jobs in STEM industries e.g. IT managers, community nurses.
Table 5: Economic inactivity of 16-64yrs population (2011) Reason for Economic Inactivity of 16-64yrs population (2011)
Newcastle
North East
England
Economic Inactivity Rate
60,300
29.8%
455,000
26.9%
7,969,600
23.7%
Economically inactive: Student
22,500
37.4%
100,400
22.1%
1,965,600
24.7%
Economically inactive: Looking after a family/ home
14,100
23.4%
107,100
23.5%
2,060,100
25.8%
Economically inactive: Long-term sick
11,500
19.0%
118,000
25.9%
1,702,300
21.4%
Economically inactive: Retired
7,100
11.7%
84,400
18.5%
1,322,600
16.6%
Economically inactive: Other
3,400
5.7%
32,900
7.2%
708,600
8.9%
Economically inactive: Temporary sick
1,100
1.9%
9,900
2.2%
149,000
1.9%
500
0.9%
2,400
0.5%
61,300
0.8%
Economically inactive: Discouraged
Source: Office for National Statistics, via Nomis (www.nomisweb.co.uk) accessed September 2012 NOTE: *Data shown is the most recent available and is at the period July2010-June2011 *The data presented in this table is not directly comparable to the data held in Table 2 due to the point in time at which data was accessed. Due to data revisions by ONS the data available at September 2012 is different to that which was available in January 2012.
SKILLS & EMPLOYMENT Qualifications and Earnings The resident population of Newcastle is well skilled, with 51.0% of 16-64year olds being qualified at NVQ Level-3 and above, whilst 36.4% of residents qualified at NVQ level-4 and above are economically active and in employment. In 2011, Newcastle residents working full-time hours (30hours or more per week) had a gross weekly pay of £441.00 equivalent to around £22,293 per annum. Part-time working Newcastle residents had a gross weekly pay of £138.00 equivalent to £8,697 per annum during 2011.
Key Industries Around Newcastle there are a number of key industries heavily founded in STEM. Detailed information regarding these industries can be found later in this e-book with dedicated industry profile chapters. The key STEM industries with opportunities for Newcastle residents are:
l l l l l l l l
Advanced manufacturing and Engineering Digital, IT & Creative Process Health & Life Sciences Low Carbon Transport Energy Generation and Distribution Subsea Finance
Within all of these industries there are a large number of companies, including national and international organisations. For some industries, the companies are high in number but small in size, for example Digital, IT & Creative where employers range from Sage through to independent studios and agencies such as Wonder Stuff Studio and M’Ology. In other industries, the companies are few in number but much greater in size, as is the case in Health & Life Sciences where the NHS is the largest single health employer but many more SMEs have emerged in Life Sciences, for example: GlaxoSmithKline UK, MSD UK, SCM Pharma etc. The key industries of interest for Newcastle residents are located throughout the City and further afield across the North East, with some industries having ‘clusters’ or ‘pockets’ of activity in particular geographic locations. For example:
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Life Science and Process related companies can primarily be found in Southern Northumberland and Teesside in and around areas such as Ashington and Wilton; l
Low Carbon Transport companies are sited near Nissan in Sunderland, the Turbine Business Park and throughout the A19 ‘corridor’; l
Subsea and Energy Generation companies tend to be found on the North Banks of the Tyne in areas such as Wallsend and along the North Tyneside/South Northumberland in areas such as Blyth; and, l
Clusters of Digital, IT & Creative particularly for smaller companies, can be found in areas such as central Gateshead at Design Centre North and Gateshead International Business Centre, Newcastle Business Park, Hoults Yard, near Sunderland Software City, Boho One in Middlesbrough and the Ouseburn. l
Although some opportunities are outside the boundaries of Newcastle, research in to Travel-To-Work-Areas and commuting patterns show that as the salary of an individual increases, they will travel further to work. Currently, Newcastle residents are most likely to travel to Gateshead and North Tyneside to work, with fewer residents travelling to South Tyneside, Sunderland and Durham despite good rail and Metro links to these areas from Newcastle.
Transferability of Skills An important consideration for Newcastle residents when exploring key STEM industries and the opportunities that exist, is that for many of these industries, the skills individuals already possess are highly transferrable, regardless of the level of entry. For example: Individuals who have been employed in heavy manufacturing environments such as vehicles or industrial equipment will have lean manufacturing knowledge and skills which can be readily transferred to advanced manufacturing such as food manufacture or in to energy generation and distribution supporting the development of renewables components or working offshore; l
Plumbers who have traditionally worked on construction sites can up-skill and transfer their experience and knowledge to take advantage of the changes taking place in energy generation and distribution, e.g.: installing solar thermal systems, ground source heat pumps, grey water harvesting; l
Programmers who may have been working in software development or games production can transfer their skills to energy generation and distribution (e.g. smart grid programming) and low carbon transport (e.g. telematics/intelligent dashboards, intelligent transport system development); l
Chemists who may be working in a clean room environment for the process industry have skills that are transferrable to low carbon transport, particularly alternative fuel and battery development; l
For supporting roles in STEM industries, the core skills, experience and knowledge of individuals with backgrounds in areas such as accounting, administration, PA support, marketing, sales, communications, logistics etc., are highly transferable to any of the industries mentioned throughout this e-book. l
Newcastle’s Medical Story Newcastle has always been a city of science – the centre of a region alive with scientific endeavour and discovery. Across the centuries, pioneers and medics across Newcastle have used medical developments to improve lives and shape history. The timeline below demonstrates just some of the remarkable medical developments that have their origin at the heart of this city.
Newcastle Infirmary
Operating theatre in the 1900s
The original Newcastle Infirmary opened its doors on Forth Banks receiving its first patients on 8th October. The facilities available to care for the sick at this time may seem primitive compared to today’s standards but they were made possible by the charitable instinct of local dignitaries who recognised the responsibility to provide for those in need. Initially capable of accommodating some 90 patients, overcrowding soon became a problem and it was not unusual for two patients to occupy one bed at a time.
1753
On 11th July 1906, the brand new Royal Victoria Infirmary, situated opposite Leazes Park and built to accommodate 400 patients, was officially opened by King Edward VII to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria’s reign. The new Infirmary saw the rapid development of specialisation in many surgical and medical fields and gained a much esteemed, national reputation for fully embracing cross-consultation amongst all disciplines of staff.
John Snow
John Snow, who trained in Newcastle and had worked in Killingworth, discovered that the disease Cholera was spread by polluted water.
1834
1854
1898 The first female doctors graduated from the Medical School. Grace Billings (pictured) was one of the first women to graduate with her Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) qualification.
The Newcastle upon Tyne School of Medicine and Surgery started courses on the 1st October. The first medical school was in Manors, next to the Holy Jesus Hospital (now next to the Central Motorway).
1906
1937 Dr T Philip Ayre invented a technique which universally revolutionised the practice of anesthesia for babies and children. The Ayre’s T-piece is still used worldwide in peadiatrics today. He is also remembered for clinical skills which transformed the theory and practice of neurosurgical anesthesia
Old Barber Surgeon’s Hall
Grace Billings
Dr Ayre
Our medical school has a long history of world-class research stretching back over 175 years. We have specialist scientists and engineers working on new ideas in healthcare helping Newcastle to stay at the forefront of medical breakthroughs.
The city’s hospitals are some of the best in the country and together make up one of the largest NHS Trusts in the UK. Healthcare professionals have been providing patient-centred healthcare to communities in the North East of England and beyond for over 250 years.
The influence of this legacy continues to reverberate with Newcastle at the forefront of science in research, in education and in communities. If you have a story you’d like to share about scientific or technological innovation from around the region, or you’d simply like to tell us about your connections with science, please visit www.newcastlesciencecity.com/yourstory
Kaylee Davidson
Medical history was made at Newcastle’s Freeman Hospital when 5 month old Kaylee Davidson became the first baby in the UK to have a successful heart transplant – the cardiac specialists have since carried out over 1,200 heart and lung transplants including the first single and dual lung transplants in Europe and they were the first in the world to perform two paediatric heart transplants on the same day in 2009. The Trust is continuing its pioneering approach to transplantation and is currently constructing the first centre dedicated solely to transplantation surgery in the UK. This will be called the Institute of Transplantation and is due to open later this year at the Freeman Hospital.
The ‘Thousand Families’ Study started. All 1142 babies born to mothers living in Newcastle between May and June became part of a revolutionary study to look at health, housing and income. The study is still going on!
1947
1967
1987
Internationally renowned transplant surgeon, Ross Taylor CBE, performed the North- East’s first kidney transplant at the Royal Victoria Infirmary, successfully transplanting a kidney taken from William Hutchfield from County Durham, into his son David. A pioneer in his field, Mr Taylor established a nationally recognised Renal Transplant Centre where clinical outcomes matched the best of any unit anywhere in the world, and in January 1990 he performed a record four transplants in 24 hours.
Specialist surgery
Newcastle scientists and doctors announce that they have used stem cells to restore sight to people made blind by chemical burns and other damage.
1998 Newcastle’s internationally renowned “Bubble Unit” first performed a bone marrow transplant to treat children with a rare inherited blood disorder called chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) on 18th March 1998 under the leadership of Professor Andrew Cant. This medical triumph led to the development of a world-leading programme which now boasts over 30 successful transplants. The Unit subsequently pioneered the first successful series of transplants for IPEX syndrome (when the body is unable to produce the white blood cells it needs to turn off the immune system after fighting an infection leading to the immune system attacking its own body’s tissues and organs). The Unit has now moved into its new home, The Great North Children’s Hospital at the Royal Victoria Infirmary
2011
2009
Doctors at Newcastle’s Freeman Hospital celebrate their 200th child heart transplant. Andrew Humphrey, aged 15 from York, becomes the latest youngster to benefit from the world class heart transplant unit.
Andrew Humphrey
Newcastle is the place to be – for scientists, healthcare professionals, businesses... and patients! To find out more about Newcastle’s proud medical history visit www.ncl.ac.uk/ biomedicine and www.newcastle-hospitals.org.uk
Nurse and baby in Bubble Unit
The New Industrial Revolution The industrial history of the North East of England stands testament to the region’s capacity to invent itself and invent itself once more. Time and time again, the region has suffered blows to its traditional industries, time and time again it has bounced back. That is why it is today experiencing a new industrial revolution in fields including advanced engineering, automotive manufacture and design, renewable energy and health sciences. The first Industrial Revolution started in the middle of the 18th Century, driven by the advent of the steam age, particularly through great railway pioneers like George Stephenson, his son Robert and engineering genius Timothy Hackworth. It was linked to shipbuilding on the Tyne, the Wear and the Tees and the mighty coal-mining heartlands of County Durham and Northumberland as well as iron and, later, steel making on the Tees. They were good times for the region and the industries employed thousands of people, drove the growth of great towns and cities, made fortunes for entrepreneurs and placed the North East of England on the world stage as a trading centre. Shipbuilding underlines the region’s importance; in the first decade of the 20th century, one quarter of the global output of
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the industry was produced on the banks of the region’s three principal rivers. But nothing lasts for ever and competition from abroad started to eat into the North East’s share of the market. That process continued between the First and Second World Wars, not helped by collapsing markets for coal and ships and the emergence of mass unemployment. There were success stories, of course, not least the emergence of the bulk chemical industry on Teesside and, during the Second World War, the region saw increased demand for coal, ships and armaments. It seemed that the spiral was inexorably downward and after the war, the traditional industries struggled badly: coal mining contracted in the 1960s then all but vanished following the defeat of the miners’ in the strike of 1985. Tens of thousands of jobs were lost and similar hard times hit steel-making, shipbuilding and engineering.
There the story might have ended with mighty industries gone or battling for survival, the overwhelming image of the region one of deserted industrial sites and silenced river banks. The second Industrial Revolution has changed all that. North East England’s prosperity has always been based on innovation and so it has proved once more. The spirit of those early mining engineers, railwaymen and inventors lives on in scientists finding new chemical processes and better ways of using old ones, medical researchers making great strides towards curing diseases and engineers whose skills are renowned the world over. Among industries in which time-honoured skills are proving invaluable is the renewable energy sector. Whether it be new ways of harnessing the wind or the tide, breakthroughs in using the power of the sun to make energy, introducing new processes to make industry cleaner or pioneering the electric car, the North East of England is at the forefront. More and more companies are now looking to the region to develop green technologies, recognising in the area’s longestablished expertise in engineering and its track record for invention the potential to turn concepts into reality. The region also has experts driving the North East of England into a digital era where it can proudly take its place as one of the world’s true innovators, whether it be in animation or industrial design, healthcare or software development.
From teams working in the associated fields of nanotechnology to printable electronics, from those devising the lighting of the future to those pioneering the latest in medical or security monitoring devices, the region is at the forefront of some staggering breakthroughs. What’s more, steel making is back on the Tees and there remain companies involved in shipbuilding and repair along the North East‘s rivers. A region on its last legs? A region that ran out of ideas? A region that does not offer opportunity to the young job-seeker? We think not.
Key STEM Industries in the North East The North East has a number of specialisms, each of which offers job opportunities to talented young people. When considering your career choices, these specialisms are well worth considering and over the pages of this booklet we will elaborate on some of them.
AGEING & HEALTH The General Hospital in Newcastle houses Europe’s largest facility for Ageing Research, which is globally renowned for research into cancers, cardiovascular, brain and neural, musculoskeletal and infectious diseases and general conditions linked to the ageing process.
www.ncl.ac.uk/iah
STEM CELLS & REGENERATIVE MEDICINE This area offers the possibility of a whole new way of practising medicine, moving away from surgery and drugs to cell-based therapies which allow the cause of the disease to be addressed. There are significant economic opportunities in the UK and the North East is one of the leaders, its North East England Stem Cell Institute (NESCI) specialising in a variety of new research. NESCI is a collaboration between Durham and Newcastle Universities, the Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and other partners, including the Centre for Life, in Newcastle.
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HEALTHCARE & LIFE SCIENCES North East England’s thriving healthcare and life sciences economy is worth £4 billion and supports 5,000 related businesses. The region is one of the major global locations for the pharmaceutical industry with 33% of the UK’s pharmaceutical production generated within the North East. North East England’s £10m Life Knowledge Park, at the International Centre for Life in Newcastle, is one of only six UK genetic research centres aimed at achieving improvements in human health.
CREATIVE INDUSTRIES The creative sector is growing rapidly in the North East, helped by universities like Teesside, which has a centre for digital excellence, and Sunderland Software City. Job opportunities include software developers, engineers and programmers. Sectors range from creating computer games and film animation to scientific analysis.
PROCESS INDUSTRY (eg. pharmaceucticals, biofuels, oil & gas)
PRINTABLE ELECTRONICS NETPark is home to the UK national flagship centre for the development of printable electronics technologies that independent forecasts predict will be a £16 billion industry by 2015. Applications include thin flexible displays, low energy lighting and flexible solar cells. Other areas of interest include printable electronics for displays.
One-fifth of the UK’s production capacity for the chemical process industry is based in the North East, including 58% of its petrochemical industry, 35% of its pharmaceuticals and a major share of its speciality chemicals sector. The Centre for Process Innovation (CPI), the regional Centre of Excellence for the chemical sector, is based in the Wilton Centre near Redcar, a 75-acre research and development that is home to more than 30 companies, including a number of multinationals. More information is available on www.uk-cpi.com Also working with the industry on taking advantage of opportunities and creating jobs is the North East England Process Industry Cluster (NEPIC) www.nepic.co.uk The Wilton International site near Redcar is one of Europe’s most important chemical process centres and Teesside is home to other large gatherings of chemical companies.
ENERGY & LOW CARBON TECHNOLOGY Narec (National Renewable Energy Centre), North East England’s Centre of Excellence in National Renewable Energy, at Blyth, is dedicated to giving organisations in the Energy and Low Carbon Technology sector the support they need to transform bright ideas into businesses. There are growing opportunities within wave and tidal technology and wind energy is already well-established with plans for hundreds of turbines off the North East coast, all needing traditional engineering skills.
ENGINEERING Electronic, design, mechanical, environmental, software and chemical engineers all in great demand from companies across the region. That includes those skilled in advanced engineering techniques as the industry evolves.
Helping find the new generation of employees is The National Skills Academy of Environmental Technologies. There are 14 nationally, one of which is in the North East, a partnership between Narec, Northumberland College, Sunderland College, Redcar and Cleveland College and Hartlepool College. Newcastle College also has a Renewable Energies Academy & University Technical College, specialising in STEM skills.
OIL & GAS The region also has many companies working in the oil and gas sector, supporting exploration and operational projects around the globe. Nationally, the industry employs 440,000 people and 5 per cent are in Eastern England. There are still up to 24 billion barrels of oil and gas to be extracted from the seabed around the UK and forecasts show that the UK oil and gas industry will continue to require a sustained flow of young, skilled people entering the sector if its potential is to be met. The best place to find careers information about the sector is from OPITO at www.opito. com
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ADVANCED MANUFACTURING & AUTOMOTIVE The region possesses a long history of engineering excellence in advanced manufacturing. Some of the world’s major automotive companies have been attracted to the North East to take advantage of the skilled and flexible workforce. Recent advances include the expansion of low-carbon electric vehicle testing and manufacturing facilities. Innovations include:
SUBSEA The North East is home to 50 companies working in the subsea sector, bringing with them a £500m turnover and providing jobs for 5,000 employees. Specialisms include the laying of underwater communications cables in the world’s oceans for the Internet. The SubSea sector has grown 25% year on year for the last 4 years, bringing together industry, academia and the government to develop new technologies. Subsea will further develop over the next four years to represent more than 100 organisations and more than 10,000 employees, generating a combined turnover of more than £1bn.
l NETPark, Sedgefield is one of the fastest growing science parks in the UK, focusing on physical sciences, particularly plastic electronics, microelectronics, photonics, nanotechnology * Hitatchi has announced plans to create a European rolling stock manufacturing and assembly centre at Newton Aycliffe, manufacturing Agility Trains and creating up to 500 jobs
LOW CARBON TRANSPORT Nissan, on Wearside, produces some of the Japanese company’s leading makes, including the new electric vehicle the LEAF, and has invested more than £200m in a rechargable lithium ion battery plant. Gateshead College also has an Automotive Academy with an emphasis on renewables. And across the region can be found companies producing vehicles and components for the green transport revolution.
The North East Innovation Story Newcastle has always been a city of science – the centre of a region alive with scientific endeavour and discovery. Across the centuries, inventors such as Robert Stephenson and Charles Parsons have used science to improve lives and shape history. The timeline below demonstrates just some of the innovation that has its origins at the heart of this region.
Swing Bridge, Newcastle
Thomas Newcomen
In 1705, Cornish inventor Thomas Newcomen produced his steam atmospheric engine to pump water from Cornish tin mines. The Newcomen engines were inefficient and used a lot of fuel. Consequently, they were not widely used in Cornwall where coal was expensive. In the North East, where this wasn’t a problem, the engines were used to drain the flooded Tyne Basin. By 1769 over 100 were in operation across North East England.
Dunston Hill in Gateshead was the first place in the world where coal was mined on an industrial scale. Close to the river for transportation and with workable coal, the town mined the fuel to replace sea-coal (which caused smoggy air) and wood, which was to be preserved for boat building.
1558 The Newcastle upon Tyne School of Medicine and Surgery started courses on the 1st October. The first medical school was in Manors, next to the Holy Jesus Hospital (now next to the Central Motorway).
Old Barber Surgeon’s Hall
1608 When riverside coal was exhausted, a method of transporting the coal to the water had to be found. The first waggonways, precursors of today’s railways, were developed by Huntington Beaumont. A single horse would haul each waggon along wooden rails to the river, sometimes using gravity to build momentum. If hills were steep, friction would build between the rails and the waggon, causing fires to erupt. A very early example of a restored waggonway arch can be seen at Causey Arch.
Causey Arch, Durham
1705
1813
In 1842, William George Armstrong noticed that steam escaping from a boiler caused an electric shock and constructed a ‘Hydro-electric machine’ for creating huge sparks of static electricity. Four years later, and Armstrong’s interest was hydraulics. He invented highpressure hydraulic machinery used in structures including Tower Bridge and Newcastle’s Swing Bridge. Armstrong was also an advocate of solar energy, observing that the solar energy received across 4,000 m2 in tropical areas would “exert the amazing power of 4,000 horses.”
1842
Steam power was soon applied to transport. Drawing inspiration from earlier rail pioneers, Robert Stephenson, son of George, developed The Rocket, the first modern locomotive. The Stockton to Darlington Railway opened in 1825, and the Liverpool to Manchester Railway in 1830. The Stephensons became responsible for the worldwide expansion of the railway.
Robert Stephenson
Cragside House
The influence of this legacy continues to reverberate with Newcastle at the forefront of science in research, in education and in communities. If you have a story you’d like to share about scientific or technological innovation from around the region, or you’d simply like to tell us about your connections with science, please visit www.newcastlesciencecity.com/yourstory
Reyrolle factory
‘Turbinia’
In 1962 the International Research and Development Company (IRD) was established in Newcastle by a host of internationally renowned companies with roots in the region, including ICI, Parsons and Reyrolle. The company undertook research, development and testing to identify commercial applications for products on behalf of global companies. Major advancements at IRD included: superconductivity and the development of the world’s first superconducting motor; laser technology, including an application for eye surgery; and energy conservation, including early testing of wind power technology.
In 1884 Charles Parsons used steam engine technology to develop the first steamdriven turbines. The first turbo-electric generators were small machines that provided ships with electric lighting, but they were quickly developed to generate electrical power for towns and cities. Building on this discovery, in 1894 Parsons built Turbinia to test and demonstrate the advantages of using the steam turbine to propel vessels through water. In 1897, after three years of trials, Turbinia was the fastest vessel on the water, capable of travelling at speeds of up to 40mph.
1880
1894
In 1850, Joseph Wilson Swan created a light bulb using carbonised paper filaments in an evacuated glass bulb. The inventor received a British patent for his device in 1878, about a year before Thomas Edison. In 1880 Swan tried out his invention at Cragside, which became the first house in the world to be lit by electric lightbulbs. Newcastle’s Mosley Street was among the first streets to be illuminated by electric lighting.
1899 Charles Hesterman Merz pioneered the use of high-voltage, three-phase AC power distribution, building a system in North East England that became the model for the National Grid. Hesterman Merz set up a consulting firm with William McLellan in 1902. Their first major project was Neptune Bank Power Station, the UK’s first three-phase electricity supply system. Hesterman Merz consulted on the electrification of tramways, and on the Tyneside lines of the North Eastern Railway, which had electric systems by 1904
1962
2011 Renewable energy, low carbon technologies and cutting-edge transport systems are just some of the innovative projects that continue to define Newcastle and the wider North East as an area leading the way in scientific enterprise. This expertise has helped Newcastle keep its crown as the UK’s most sustainable city for the second year running.
Science Central Site
Joseph Wilson Swan
Introduction to STEM learning and training is STEM study or STEM job for me? Most people don’t know what they want to do for a living even after they’ve left education and joined the workforce. As we get older, we start to realise what we do and don’t enjoy, what our strengths are and where our interests lie. Sometimes our interests have been with us for a long time, sometimes we didn’t know that interest existed until we saw or heard something that sparked a small desire to find out more. It is our interests and strengths that can lead us to find our perfect career many years after taking our first step in to the world of work. For some people, a decision will be made later in life, sometimes after completing an unrelated educational or training course and transferring the skills gained to follow a new route, or even after making a mistake by taking an illsuited job and then realising that a more appropriate career lay elsewhere. Once you’ve read some of the case studies and profiles of STEM industries, the fascinating companies and the careers they offer in this e-book, you might think that a similar job would suit you. You’ll see from some of the STEM jobs we’ve highlighted, there are lots of ways to arrive at your perfect job. The most important thing to remember if you are attracted to a STEM-related career is to seek advice from the many support 22-23 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
organisations out there e.g. the National Careers Service, your local college and University, to make sure that you keep all of your options open. The STEM information contacts and the STEM Learning & Training sections of this e-book are good points of reference in helping you to explore your options.
Keep checking us out!!! We will continue to work with employers so that we can add to this and provide you with more information about the companies, what they do and the jobs they offer and will be updating it to make sure that you have every opportunity to understand how the options you choose can help you find a great career.
“21st Century Careers in the North East” www.youtu.be/TYobOBJs3oQ
Introduction to STEM Subjects and Jobs In the North East there are hundreds of STEM related companies and they offer an even greater number of STEM jobs. You will see lots of examples of these in this eBook. To try to illustrate how important and relevant your STEM subjects are in helping you to take your first steps to these career opportunities, the following page lists many of the jobs mentioned in this eBook underneath the STEM subjects that are important to study to access them. You will see that some jobs fall under several STEM subjects - it is important to remember that STEM subjects can offer several routes to the same career. And it’s not just the direct STEM jobs that we want to tell you about as there are many STEM-related career opportunities in supporting business areas which you can reach by continuing your STEM studies.
CROSS CUTTING JOBS l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l
Business Support Administration Coordination Facilities and Property Management Personal Assistant Secretary Finance and Commerical Human Resources Legal Manufacturing and Operations CNC Setter Driller Electrician Fitter Manfacturing Management Planning Production Steelworkers Welders Procurement Project management Sales, Marketing and Communications Supply Chain activities (e.g. Logistics)
PHYSICS l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l
Allied Health Professional Archaeologist Architect Astronaut Cable Jointer Chemical Engineer Commercial Manager Cosmetics Expert Doctor Electrical Fitter Electrical Network Designer Electrical Network Evaluator Electrical Network Planner Electrical Tester Engineer Environment Specialist Forensic Scientist Health & Safety Operations Helathcare Scientist Laboratory Analyst Maintenance Technician Materials Developer Materials Scientist Mechanical Design Engineer Medical Physicist Metallurgist Meterologist Midwifery Nursing Oil & Gas Technician Overhead Linesman Pilot Plant Maintenance and Operations Power Control Engineer Power Motor Engineer Power System Engineer Programme Manager Project Manager Quality Assurance Engineer Science Fiction Writer Scientific Investigator Senior Games Designer Senior Programmer Signals Squadron Software Developer Trainee Pilot Vet Vice President Voice Operations Technician Xbox Programmer
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BIOLOGY l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l
Allied Health Professional Biomedical Scientist Chemical Engineer Commercial Manager Cosmetics Expert Delivery Assurance Executive Dentist Doctor Education Specialist Environment Specialist Field Applications Specialist Food Scientist Forensic Scientist Healthcare Scientist Laboratory Analyst Land Restoration Consultant Marine Biologist Midwifery Nursing Oil and Gas Technician Optometrist Programme Manager Project Manager Systems Biologist Trainee Actuary Trainee Dietician Trainee Pilot Vet Website Development Manager
CHEMISTRY l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l
Allied Health Pro Archaeologist Chemical Engine Commercial Dire Commercial Man Cosmetics Exper Crystallographer Dentist Doctor Environmental S Food Scientist Forensic Scientis Health and Safet Healthcare Scien Laboratory Analy Land Restoration Lecturer in Chem Engineering Maintenance Tec Marine Biologist Materials Scienti Metallurgist Midwifery Nursing Oil and Gas Tech Plant Maintenan Operations Power System En Programme Man Project Manager Quality Assuranc Researcher Senior Games De Senior Programm Signals Squadron Trainee Pilot Vet Vice President Xbox Programm
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TECHNOLOGY l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l
Allied Health Professional Commercial Manager Crystallographer Electrical Network Designer Electrical Network Evaluator Electrical Network Planner Electrical Tester Healthcare Scientist Maintenance Technician Materials Developer Mechanical Design Engineer Oil and Gas Technician Programme Manager Project Manager Software Developer
ENGINEERING l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l
Allied Health Professional Auditor Chemical Engineer CNC Setter Commercial Manager Design Engineer Driller Electrical Engineer Electrical Network Designer Electrical Network Evaluator Electrical Network Planner Electrical Tester Electrician Embedded Code Writer Engineer Engineering Manager Fitter Health and Safety Engineer Health and Safety Operations Healthcare Scientist Maintenance Engineer Manufacturing and Operations Manager Materials Developer Materials Scientist Mechanical Design Engineer Medical Physicist Metallurgist Naval Architect Plant Maintenance and Operations Power System Engineer Process Engineer Programme Manager Project Manager Quality Assurance Engineer Software Engineer Steelworkers Structural Engineer Systems Engineer Vice President Welders
MATHS l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l l
Biomedical Scientist Senior Games Designer Crystallographer Chemical Engineer Quality Assurance Engineer Senior Programme Accountant Architect Auditor Cable Jointer Commercial Director Commercial Manager Cosmetics Expert Delivery Assurance Executive Doctors Electrical Fitter Electrical Network Designer Electrical Network Evaluator Electrical Network Planner Electrical Tester Engineer Environment Specialist Finance Manager Food Scientist Health and Safety Operations Healthcare Scientist Maintenance Technician Manufacturing and Operations Manager Marine Biologist Materials Developer Materials Scientist Mechanical Design Engineer Metallurgist Meterologist Midwifery Nursing Oil and Gas Technician Optometrist Overhead Linesman Pilot Plant Maintenance and Operations Power Control Engineer Power Motor Engineer Power System Engineer Programme Manager Project Accounts Manager Project Manager Quality Manager Signals Squadron Software Developer Trainee Actuary Trainee Pilot Treasurer Vet Vice President Voice Operations Technician Website Development Manager Xbox Programmer
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STEM Stars
STEM Stars - BIOLOGY Biology is the study of living organisms and as such, it’s one of the broadest subjects in science. It ranges in scale from the molecular, through cells and whole organisms, to ecosystems and the whole biosphere. Studying biology teaches us to ask questions, make observations, evaluate evidence, and solve problems. Biologists learn how living things work, how they interact with one another, and how they evolve. They might study enzymes or cells under a microscope, insects in a rainforest, viruses that affect human beings, plants in a greenhouse, or lions in the Africa grasslands. Their work increases our understanding about the natural world in which we live and helps us address issues of personal wellbeing and worldwide concern, such as environmental depletion, threats to human health, and maintaining viable and abundant food supplies. 28-29 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
DAWN BARCLAY Biomedical Scientist
NICOLA COOPER Land Restoration Consultant
Dawn Barlclay sees her job as a hospital biomedical scientist as similar to that of a TV detective and, just like the tough cookies on the telly, she’s not fazed by the sight of blood and guts. In fact Dawn spends a lot of her time growing bugs taken from different types of tissues – from wounds, swabs, bones, green phlegm and even urine. She then painstakingly works through her findings to identify the best treatment to cure the patient’s problem.
When aeroplanes or helicopters crash, the fuel and cargo they were carrying can spill onto the land or water beneath. This can pose a serious danger to mankind and nature. Newcastle University graduate Nicola is one of a small number of people across the world who specialise in using their knowledge of chemistry to survey the damage done to the environment to help with the clean up.
“I really enjoy my work and getting to the bottom of things,” she says. “For example I am involved in diagnosing whether someone has HIV and while sometimes my results mean bad news for the patient, it is important to remember we also bring positive results. It’s a great part of the job when someone is found to be free of a particular disease.”
Dawn’s route GCSE maths and dual science > A level biology, chemistry, maths>bachelor of science degree in biomedical sciences> year working in the labs at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, Liverpool > biomedical scientist
“Aircrash investigation is very exciting as I can be called out at very short notice to travel to any part of the world,” Nicola explains. “So far I’ve dealt with two helicopter crashes – one in a lake in Italy and one in the middle of the countryside in Greece. It’s extremely satisfying when you can go home at the end of the day after having played a part in preventing harm to humans and the environment.” Nicola was interested in both science and music at school but chose to pursue science as a career, though she still enjoys music in her spare time. “I’ve absolutely no regrets,” she says. “The pay and prospects are much better in science and the variety of jobs is fascinating.”
Nicola’s route GCSE maths and dual science>A’level chemistry, biology, music and general studies>bachelor of science degree in environmental biology>year placement at Environment Agency>masters degree in environmental biogeochemistry
STEM Stars - CHEMISTRY Everything you hear, see, smell, taste and touch involves chemistry and chemicals. Hearing, seeing, tasking and touching all involve an intricate series of chemical reactions and interactions in your body. With such an enormous range of topics, it is essential to know about chemistry at some level in order to understand the world around us. Chemistry is involved with the development of medicines that control and cure diseases; food production through specific and safe agricultural chemicals; consumer products such as cleaners, plastics and clothing; new methods of energy production, transfer and storage; new materials for electronic components; and new methods for protection and cleanup of the environment. Chemistry students are needed to help solve some of society’s most difficult technological problems through research, development and teaching. 30-31 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
KARL VON DER LUEHE Senior games designer Karl’s career took an unexpected turn when he was studying for his PhD in inorganic chemistry in 2006. “I started spending a lot of time playing videogames while taking a break from writing my thesis,” says Karl. “I began to see beyond what the normal gamer sees and started to question why design decisions were made and how the structure of the game worked.” Though Karl believed the natural progression from his PhD would have been to stay in academia or work for a pharmaceutical company, he decided to try to make a living from his new-found passion by getting a job in the games industry. “Without any programming or art skills my only option was to apply for design roles, the skills for which are much softer and difficult to define,” he says. “Within a fortnight I landed my dream job at one of the best independent studios in the UK. In what was undoubtedly a lucky break, my CV was seen by the design director who has a PhD in biochemistry and understood the transferable skills involved in such a change in direction.” Karl now develops new ideas for games and tests them out. He sees himself as the glue holding the game together by liaising between the art, animation and programming departments within his company. One day he hopes his career path will come full-circle as he hopes to use his design skills to create interactive educational games to teach kids how interesting science is.
Karl’s route GCSE maths, chemistry, physics and biology>A level maths, chemistry, biology and German>masters degree in chemistry>PhD in inorganic chemistry>games designer
DR ROSS HARRINGTON Crystallographer Ross, who works at Newcastle University, uses X-rays to study the structure of chemical molecules produced by chemists at the university. Knowing a crystal structure is very important, especially for pharmaceutical companies, where lawsuits over patents worth millions of pounds can be won or lost through the proof of the existence of a particular form of a drug. “Crystallography is very rewarding because it is the only analytical method that categorically characterises a chemical molecule,” says Ross. “It’s also fun being able to look at molecules in 3-D and be able to spin them around.” As well as working at the university, Ross is one of a team of chemists from across the UK which provides a national crystallographic service and has access to a new national scientific facility called Diamond Light Source in Oxfordshire. This giant machine, called a synchrotron, is a series of super microscopes housed in a futuristic doughnut-shaped building which covers the area of five football pitches. Ross is involved with lots of projects involving local primary and secondary schools and enjoys doing lots of cool experiments to get young people enthused about chemistry.
Ross’s route GCSE Maths, design and technology, science double award> A level chemistry , geography and maths > chemistry degree including year in industry > Phd in crystallography and inorganic chemistry>crystallographer
STEM Stars - ENGINEERING There is some element of engineering in virtually everything we use – from the clothes we wear, the food we eat and the transport we use, to the micro components in modern electronic devices and, at the other end of the scale, huge structures such as skyscrapers, bridges and dams. Professionally qualified engineers are highly valued and not just in the design and manufacturing industries. Businesses such as financial services and general consultancy have recognised the benefit of individuals trained to solve problems. Clean water and the power to light and heat our homes are all the result of engineers’ contribution to our quality of life. As demand for these vital resources increase, engineers are key players in the development of the technology and materials to enable their sustainable growth.
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ASHLEY WINSPER Chemical engineer
PAUL BURDON Quality assurance engineer
When people think about chemicals their imagination is often limited to picturing test tubes in labs. But the practical uses of chemicals can be literally life changing.
When a new car is designed and manufactured it doesn’t just need to look great, it also needs to be safe to drive and up to the job. It’s Paul’s job to ensure the shiny new cars rolling off the production line at Nissan in Sunderland meet the high standards required. He checks that the parts, processes and systems used to build a new vehicle are of top quality and works throughout the enormous plant in areas including the paint shop, plastic shop and axle plant. Paul also visits suppliers to assess the quality of their products and operations.
Ashley Winsper, who works as a commercial services manager for a North East chemical company, has just returned from Pakistan where she has been explaining how to improve the chemicals used to create fertilisers desperately needed for the country’s farmland. “I travel around the world explaining to chemical plants how to improve their production,” she says. “In Pakistan they needed to create more fertiliser for their farmers who in turn needed to produce more food to feed the population. In the past I have worked as a chemical engineer working out how to solve these problems and now I sell this information as far afield as Trinidad, America and Bahrain.”
Ashley’s route GCSE maths, chemistry and physics > A level maths, chemistry and physics > masters degree in chemical engineering with European studies > year of study in France > technical support engineer > technical plant manager > commercial services manager
“The highlight of my work is the variety of challenges I face,” says Paul. “It’s a good feeling to resolve a problem that puzzled you at first and made you think you had no idea how to fix it.”
Paul’s route GCSE maths, dual science, information systems>A level maths, physics and chemistry>masters degree in mechanical engineering>quality assurance engineer
STEM Stars - ICT The world is becoming increasingly dominated by the use of ICT systems, which influence every aspect of our everyday lives. The study of ICT will help you with the analytical, communication and technical skills that you will need as an active participant in this exciting and dynamic world. A good way to think about ICT is to consider all the uses of digital technology that already exist to help individuals, businesses and organisations use information. ICT covers any product that will store, retrieve, manipulate, transmit or receive information electronically in a digital form, for example, personal computers, digital television, email and robots. ICT is concerned with the storage, retrieval, manipulation, transmission or receipt of digital data. Importantly, it is also concerned with the way these different uses can work with each other. 34-35 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
ALEX WATERSTON Senior Programmer Xbox Programmer If you’re a fan of computer games, the chances are you’ve come across Alex’s work before – though you probably didn’t realise it. In fact the computer games he has helped create for Nintendo, Sony and Microsoft are enjoyed every day in houses all over the world. Alex’s main role is as a gameplay programmer, designing and implementing enemy behaviour, player control and game mechanics. Combining his passion computer games with his academic background in ICT, each day brings new ideas and innovations and the chance for him to work at the cutting edge of technology and gameplay. “While we still use paper design for some aspects of game creation nearly everything else is done by computer,” says the 28 yearold Newcastle University graduate. “From 2D art and animation to 3D worlds, from the sounds of guns firing to the models of their blood splatter patterns, we do it all digitally.”
Alex’s route GCSE maths and physics>A level maths, physics and chemistry>bachelor of science degree in computing science at Newcastle University>senior programmer
CHRISTOPHER NIXON Delivery assurance executive Christopher travels to events all over the world to find out about new and emerging technology and to mingle with key players from Yahoo! Google, AOL and Microsoft. This cutting-edge knowledge of the world of digital marketing is what keeps his employer, Communicator Corporation, at the forefront of the industry. The company specialises in email communications and mobile technology for major brands such as Adidas and River Island. It’s Christopher’s responsibility to monitor, improve and increase the email delivery rates of his clients. “The main challenge of my job is the fact that the email marketing industry is everchanging. That’s also the single thing that makes it so exciting and dynamic,” says the 24 year-old Northumbria University graduate. “The reason for this constant change is that spam is on the increase throughout the world and this makes my job of ensuring the successful delivery of legitimate email more difficult. As the internet service providers change their filtering rules and barriers to entry to keep the bad guys out, it’s my job to educate clients on doing all the right things to get their messages through to those they want to reach.”
Christopher’s route GCSE dual science, maths and ICT>A level business studies, ICT, biology and general studies>Bachelor of Science degree in business information systems>delivery assurance executive
STEM Stars - MATHEMATICS Mathematics is a cornerstone in the study of many different subjects, but is a course also worth studying in its own right. It is challenging but interesting, introducing ideas that have been arrived at by some of the greatest minds of all time. It is a highly respected and sought after qualification by both prospective employers and institutions of higher education. Many regard the discipline and logical approaches required in higher order problem solving skills as proof of potential for future training – vocational or academic.
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MARK WADSWORTH - Trainee actuary
DANIELLE RUTTER - Trainee pilot
Mark uses his knowledge of statistics to analyse what is happening in the financial marketplace and interprets this information to try to predict what will happen in the future. By making assumptions about the future, he advises companies, members of pension schemes and others involved within pension arrangements of the long term effects this could have on each of them. He works for a major firm of actuaries with offices across the globe and is looking forward to an exciting career of high power business meetings, world travel and good pay.
“When you take over the controls of a plane for the first time it’s exhilarating – you feel so powerful,” says 22-year-old Newcastle University graduate Danielle. “When you’re up there in a tiny plane the clouds are like a bed of cotton wool and the sun is really bright. It’s so breathtaking it’s enough to bring tears to your eyes. Then when you think about the physics involved with keeping you off the ground and enabling you to land it’s overwhelming.”
“There are fantastic prospects in this business and it’s really exciting to be part of such a big company,” says Mark. “My colleague has just come back from a secondment in Budapest and there’s even an exchange programme running between our offices in the UK and the USA so hopefully there will be lots of opportunities for me to get out and see the world.”
Mark’s route GCSE dual science and maths>A level maths, PE, geography and general studies, AS level biology>year out to work>bachelor of science degree in maths and statistics>trainee actuary
After developing a taste for flying while working towards a private pilot’s licence, Danielle decided to use her maths degree to follow her dream to become a commercial pilot. She has just begun studying for an air transport pilot’s licence and after six months of training on the ground she will be jetting off to the wide open skies of Arizona for five months to learn to fly larger aircraft with students from all over the world. “The course I’m studying also ensures you are equipped with the customer service skills needed to be a pilot and ensures options other than simply flying people on holiday are open to you – exciting careers such as air acrobatics.”
Danielle’s route GCSE physics, chemistry, biology and maths>A level maths, further maths and physics and AS level psychology>bachelor of science degree in mathematics>trainee pilot
STEM Stars - PHYSICS Everybody’s life is affected by physics. The iPod, the internet, the mobile phone, the personal computer and the car that we drive were all designed by engineers with physics training. At one extreme physics helps us to explain how atoms are put together, whilst at the other end of the spectrum it tells us how mind-bogglingly big the universe is and how insignificant we are on such a scale. A good physics qualification can be a cornerstone in a scientific education or a complement to a broader range of study, giving an excellent grounding in the knowledge and skills required to become an informed citizen of the 21st Century.
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KATIE AUSTIN - Mechanical design engineer When she was growing up, Katie could often be found under the bonnet of the family car, helping her dad fix the engine. It was this desire to learn how things work that led her into a job as an engineer. “I was so interested that when it came to doing my work experience at school I chose to work in an automatic transmission garage – helping the technicians recondition gearboxes whilst doing basic garage duties,” she says. “When I realised that my grades were good enough to continue my education at college, and potentially university, I began looking into what subject I would like to study and mechanical engineering was at the top of my list.” Katie uses her knowledge of physics and maths to solve practical problems. “I get real satisfaction knowing that I’ve designed and built something that works effectively to solve real engineering problems,” she says. Katie works for a company that specialises in engineering for the offshore oil and gas, submarine telecom, defence and renewables industries. A typical day involves designing components and doing calculations to ensure they can withstand the extreme conditions of an offshore environment. She is currently working on a multi-million pound project to design and manufacture a large pipe laying system for an oil and gas field development ship.
Katies’s route GCSE Dual award science, maths>A level maths, physics, design & technology and general studies>masters degree in mechanical and design engineering>mechanical design engineer
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STEM Learning & Training
Where the classroom meets the workplace For Gateshead College, the importance of ensuring that STEM subjects have relevance for its students is crucially important. The college has invested £8.4million in a new Skills Academy for Sustainable Manufacturing and Innovation, specialising in the manufacturing and maintenance of ultra low carbon vehicles. This world-class facility will deliver ‘green collar skills’ for employers, apprentices and students. Also based at this multimillion pound campus is a unique test track and workshop facility for low carbon vehicle research, development and training, the only one of its type in Europe linked to a training facility. From January 2012, a new £7.5million extension will open at its Skills Academy for Construction. Focusing on green and renewable energy technologies, STEM subjects will be at the heart of many of the courses delivered in this new facility. Also newly opened is the College’s AutoSkills Centre, a purpose built state-of-the-art facility that specialises in industry specific training and Automotive Technician Accreditation courses in areas including vehicle body and paint repairs, mechanical, 42-43 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
electrical and trim, vehicle damage assessment and electric vehicle and refrigerant handling. Based at Team Valley, the Centre is customised to meet the exacting demands of the motor industry. It is home to both classroom and workshop space, and has separate areas for jig and vehicle body measuring systems, a Dolby Genesis spray booth, welding, body workshops, fast fit areas, dedicated spaces for MET assessments, diagnostics, on-line testing and a specialist electric vehicle lab, all equipped to an exceptionally high standard with the best tools available in Europe. The College provides a range of bespoke and accredited programmes for employers, including a series of apprenticeships and training programmes with major companies such as Nissan and Smith Electric Vehicles. The College also has a large provision of both full and part-time STEM courses ranging from
Thinking like an entrepreneur Not only does the College work with employers to ensure that the right kind of students emerge into the workplace, it is also behind a pioneering concept that aims to transform the employment prospects of the millions of people that go through the UK’s Further Education Colleges each year. Named the Entrepreneurial Colleges initiative and supported by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, the project aims to help those students wishing to start their own business and Gateshead is one of those at the forefront.
GCSEs through to Degree programmes. At the core of the College’s approach is helping students understand the connections between the classroom and the workplace. The College uses as an example the electric vehicle, pointing out to students that the cars require a knowledge of science, including physics and chemistry, an application of technology, an understanding of engineering and the use of maths in calculating power levels. Lecturers point out that electric vehicles will provide work for everyone from scientists and designers to those employed on production lines, car mechanics who repair and service the cars and electricians who oversee power points. The same lesson works for low-carbon buildings, which require a knowledge of science, a background in technology, a background in engineering, an understand of cell structures and a training in Maths. In the case of green buildings, their development impinges on everyone from scientists and designers to brickies and glaziers, all working on concepts that have their beginnings in the application of STEM. Take many products and services and the same principles work. Each one requires a knowledge of STEM in some way.
With 2.48 million people currently unemployed in the UK and 1 in 5 young people out of work, Entrepreneurial Colleges will focus on creating and sustaining opportunities to change that situation. The College will equip students with the attitudes and skills required to run their own business or demonstrate a more entrepreneurial approach in the workplace to give them the best possible start to their career. The focus will be on encouraging ambition, innovation and collaboration and preparing students to be confident in managing risk. For more information on Gateshead College, go to www.gateshead.ac.uk
Where science careers come to Life When it comes to science, the Centre for Life in Newcastle is at the cutting-edge - and its staff are passionate about exciting people’s interest in the subject. As an internationally-acclaimed centre for life sciences, the centre brings together NHS clinics, university research and biotechnology companies. Attracting more than a quarter of a million visitors each year, it provides, among other facilities, an education centre offering the largest programme of educational science experiences in Europe. A wide range of science careers can be pursued at Life, from nurses working in Life’s fertilty Centre to clinical researchers looking at the potential of stem cells to provide cures for a 44-45 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
number of life-threatening diseases, from doctors treating patients with genetic disorders to business-people turning research into commercial success. At the heart of the complex is its Science Centre, which combines a programme of exhibitions and events to bring topical subjects to the public in an exciting and accessible manner. As the ‘face’ of the Science Centre, Life’s Science Explainers have a key role to play in achieving this. Their task is to make
the visitor experience exciting, entertaining, educational and fun. After completing a six-month in-house training programme, Science Explainers cover a variety of roles, ranging from performing science demonstrations in the centre’s theatre, explaining exhibits and encouraging interaction to delivering workshops to schools and other groups in Lifelab.
programme with Science Explainers going out to schools, colleges and often unusual locations, including Newcastle’s Quayside during the Tall Ships Festival and Gateshead’s MetroCentre during National Science and Engineering Week.
The workshops cover all Key Stages from pre-school sessions through to postgraduate studies so a good understanding of science in its broadest sense is essential along with a genuine passion for the subject.
Science Explainers are graduates with a good degree in a science subject or other appropriate qualification in a relevant STEM subject.
In addition, the education centre has a busy outreach
www.life.org.uk
College, employers and students working to a common goal! SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING & MATHEMATICS (STEM) In a modern technological society there is a need for a workforce that is well educated in all aspects of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Industry and researchers need experts who can work with the components of STEM in innovative and creative ways. Developing STEM skills and literacy is a way of approaching the curriculum through all subjects, but particularly through science, design and technology, engineering and mathematics, with ICT integrated throughout.
NEWCASTLE COLLEGE & STEM The STEM agenda aims to meet the increasing demands of employers and, in doing so, helps develop the UK economy. Newcastle College responded to both Government and the region’s ambitious STEM plans by creating its dynamic School of Applied Science and Technology in 2006. The School has proved the catalyst in developing innovative programmes in growth areas including engineering (including 46-47 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
mechanical and electrical), automotive (including mechanical, auto electrics, bodywork and paint technologies), aerospace and allied engineering (covering all key areas associated with aerospace), computing technology (including digital media and software development), vocational science (including analytical chemistry, biotechnology and forensics), energy (including renewable wind power and other related areas) and environmental, land based and veterinary nursing .
WORLD CLASS FACILITIES & RESOURCES The prestigious Newcastle Aviation Academy provides the foundation for a strategic partnership between Newcastle International Airport and Newcastle College. The Academy provides students with world-class training, qualifications and facilities. This includes engineering workshops, a 1500 sq metre aircraft hanger with a Jet Provost, BAE Jet stream 31 aircraft and a fully functional Boeing 737 aircraft on site. Cabin Crew students are also based at the site next to Newcastle Airport to gain hands-on training in an aircraft environment. On average 93% of graduates find employment in the aviation industry and students have been awarded
prestigious International Society of Transport Aircraft Trading scholarships in recognition of the programme delivered. Similarly, Newcastle College responded to the growing need for high level skills in the energy technologies sector with the creation of a dedicated state-of-the-art Energy Training Academy. The centre provides a hub for energy technologies including offshore wind other forms of renewable energy technologies. The 20,000 sq ft centre provides employer facing skills training, helping to bridge the national skills gap and providing a hub of expertise for young people developing a career and employers wishing to up-skill their current workforce in one of the major growing priority sectors in the country. The centre plans were developed with support and involvement of major employers in the energy sector, including, Shepherd Offshore, SMD Ltd, Duco Ltd, and BEL Ltd. Facilities include equipment, such as computer numerically controlled (CNC) machines and autoclave pressurising apparatus related to manufacture, assembly and maintenance of offshore wind turbines
the needs of young people wishing to study. Located at the College’s Rye Hill Campus, the building is easily accessible and will continue the regeneration of the area. Other key areas opportunities exist in within Newcastle College are outlined below.
ENGINEERING & AUTOMOTIVE Engineering courses at Newcastle College cover a wide range of disciplines leading to careers in manufacturing, mechatronics, electrical and electronic engineering, and mechanical engineering. Newcastle College has cutting edge Subsea Engineering Technologies equipment which includes an oil and gas extraction well head. A simulated control room allows students to experience operating remotely under water within a robotically operated vehicle (ROV) and all of this has the backing and support of local, national and international companies. A balanced combination of engineering theory and practical hands-on experience ensures that on completion of courses students possess the skills and knowledge employers require.
Newcastle College investment in young people and STEM continues apace with work starting on building of the new College 6th Form Centre. The 11,000 sq m building when open will include advanced practical and learning facilities, incorporating the latest technologies to assist the college in further increasing participation and driving up success.
Our automotive courses offer excellent practical and theory learning opportunities and enjoy excellent employer support. Our staff are highly skilled with some representing the sector at the prestigious World Skills event due to their reputation and expertise.
It will enhance the education of 16-19 year olds from across the region and is the city’s first specialist facility developed to serve
Newcastle College Automotive Skills Centre specialises in providing a range of high quality employer explicit training
and ATA-accredited courses across the key areas of mechanical, electrical, trim, vehicle body and paint repairs, vehicle damage assessment, and refrigerant handling. The Centre has excellent employer support and houses classroom and workshop facilities. It has servicing jig and vehicle body measuring systems, a cutting edge, quick drying air recirculation paint spray booth, welding equipment, body workshops, fast fit areas, diagnostics equipment, and all meeting exacting specifications. For specific engineering and automotive course information, go to www.ncl-coll.ac.uk
College computing technology qualifications are designed to equip individuals with the practical skills, knowledge and understanding required for success in today’s employment market. Some of the employment areas students’ progress into includes commercial or engineering organisations as a software developer, systems engineer, systems analyst or network administrator. For more specific computing technology course information go to www.ncl-coll.ac.uk
VOCATIONAL SCIENCE
COMPUTING TECHNOLOGY
Computing Technology courses at Newcastle College cover a whole range of options which could lead to careers in networking, website development, digital media and software development together with broader computing skills demanded by employers for the IT industry.
Newcastle College is equipping the scientists of the future by training them in vocational science skills which will help find them a job. Students with a practical mind and a keen interest in the explosive and exciting world of maths and science get the chance to create hypotheses and test them with their own experiments in our excellent laboratories.
Students have access to current market software on superb, upto-date, modern facilities, incorporating the latest technologies used in industry and professional practice. All Newcastle
A broad range of science based courses provides a strong lure that persuades young people to study with the college and the excellent links with local industry show them a more realistic
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Why choose Newcastle College The college is already working with local schools to engage young people in the importance of STEM and the many career opportunities available from this approach. National school and college performance tables have ranked Newcastle College as the best performing general FE College for 16-18 year olds in England for the second consecutive year. The league tables, issued by the Department for Education, confirmed that Newcastle College achieved the highest average point score per student of all General Further Education Colleges both regionally and nationally. Already graded outstanding by Ofsted, Newcastle College came top of the table for general FE colleges for achievement in full time 16-18 provision at Level 3, which includes Newcastle Sixth Form College.
career path. Newcastle College has built a quite unique offer in terms of linking to Science City in that we are a further education college which also offers some quality higher education qualifications all relevant to industry. The College recently invested heavily in a mini processing plant and industry specification clean room to supplement its existing resources and help meet evolving employer requirements. This allows the College to train lab technicians who have practical experience to compliment their academic knowledge, something industry constantly says they want. As a result of all this emphasis on equipping students for science careers Newcastle College has seen a huge increase in numbers of students on its science courses. For specific science and mathematics course information visit www.ncl-coll.ac.uk
The college also scored higher than any state school in the Newcastle and Gateshead region cementing its position as the outstanding provider in the region. This recognition demonstrates the dedicated approach adopted to producing students who are innovative, knowledgeable and ready for work; all of which are key pre requisites for technological employers of today, and tomorrow.
Newcastle University HUMANITIES & SOCIAL SCIENCES (HASS) This Faculty is the largest of the three faculties at Newcastle University. It comprises nine academic schools, a graduate school and the Language Resource Centre. The Faculty provides a wide range of opportunities for study, including over 70 undergraduate courses, a large selection of joint and combined degrees and a wide variety of both taught and research-based postgraduate programmes. Academics are leaders in national and international research covering all aspects of the arts, humanities and social sciences. The schools within the Faculty operate a variety of state-of-theart specialist facilities for both teaching and research purposes. The Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences (www.ncl.ac.uk/hss) We are an exciting, multi-disciplinary faculty within Newcastle University. The Faculty is made up of nine academic schools, a Combined Honours Centre, Culture Lab and a Language Resource Centre. We also work closely with the INTO Newcastle University Centre. If you want to study in one of the most forward-looking faculties in the UK, then please use this website to explore our wide 50-51 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
range of courses and our diverse areas of research. Here you can find out more about: l the academic schools in the Faculty l our undergraduate degrees including Combined Honours and Joint Honours l our Study Year Abroad programme for non-EU students who wish to study in Newcastle l our postgraduate degrees - taught and research- based l our excellent research l the services we can offer your business: for example Small Enterprise Research Unit (SERU) l the Faculty, including information about our facilities and our staff Schools and research units l Architecture, Planning and Landscape l Arts and Cultures l Combined Honours Centre l Education, Communication and Language Sciences l English Literature, Language and Linguistics l Geography, Politics and Sociology l Global Urban Research Unit (GURU) l Health and Society, Institute of
l Historical Studies l History of Medicine, Northern Centre for l Knowledge, Innovation, Technology and Enterprise, Centre for (KITE) l Law School l Learning and Teaching, Centre for (CfLaT) l Literary Arts, Newcastle Centre for the (NCLA) l Modern Languages l Newcastle Institute for the Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities l Newcastle University Business School l Policy, Ethics and Life Sciences (PEALS) l Research in Linguistics and Language Sciences, Centre for (CRiLLS) l Urban and Regional Development Studies, Centre for (CURDS) Other bodies l Language Resource Centre
MEDICAL SCIENCES The Faculty brings together a world-leading collaboration of research scientists, engineers, medical doctors and teaching professionals delivering undergraduate and postgraduate teaching in medicine, dentistry and health sciences. The Faculty is branded as Newcastle Biomedicine to reflect to partnership between Newcastle University, the Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, and other academic institutes and NHS hospitals in the North East of England.
More information about the Faculty of Medical Sciences (www.ncl.ac.uk/biomedicine) Newcastle Biomedicine We are a world leading collaboration of research scientists, engineers, medical doctors and teaching professionals who deliver undergraduate and postgraduate teaching in medicine, dentistry and health sciences. We are a recognised national centre of excellence which brings together internationally respected research in clinical care, basic science and engineering in an innovative environment. We excel in tackling challenges in health and healthcare. Our key areas of focus include ageing, stem cells, cancer, cell biology, genetics, drug development, medicine in society, and neuroscience. Newcastle Biomedicine joins Newcastle University with the Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and embraces other academic institutions and NHS hospitals in the North East of England. Schools and research units l Ageing and Health, Institute for l Bacterial Cell Biology, Centre for (CBCB) l Behaviour and Evolution,Centre for (CBE) l Biomedical Sciences l Cell and Molecular Biosciences, Institute for l Cellular Medicine, Institute of l Dental Sciences
l Health and Society, Institute of l Genetic Medicine, Institute of l Human Nutrition Research Centre l Medical Sciences Education Development l Medical Toxicology Research Centre l Neuroscience, Institute of l Northern Institute for Cancer Research l North East England Stem Cell Institute l Psychology Other bodies l Northern Deanery (ensures patient and NHS needs are met through the delivery of medical and dental training) l Graduate School (supports all students in the Faculty)
SCIENCE, AGRICULTURE & ENGINEERING (SAgE) The Faculty is a large multi-disciplinary faculty with an international reputation. It is made up of 10 schools focusing on the subject areas of: l agriculture and biological sciences l engineering l physical sciences
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The faculty offers excellent research in a variety of areas and a diverse range of taught and research postgraduate programmes. More information about SagE (www.ncl.ac.uk/sage) Welcome to the Faculty of Science Agriculture and Engineering The Faculty encompasses the largest and most comprehensive academic resource for teaching, research and commercialisation in North East England in the areas of engineering, agriculture and science, and also provides substantial services to industry in these areas in a variety of forms. To manage the diversity of our activity, the Faculty is structured around ten academic Schools, two Research Institutes and a number of Research Centres and Networks. The Schools are responsible for managing discipline focused research and teaching. The Research Institutes, Centres and Networks are responsible for coordination of our foremost multidisciplinary themes. In addition to these academic units, a further unit, RCID, provides services to industry through specialised capability and facilities. This structure supports close interaction between research
and teaching, including that between postgraduates and undergraduates which is at the heart of our academic culture. In research, we have been externally assessed (RAE2008) to be world leading and internationally excellent in the majority of our research. We are in the UK top 2 for Civil Engineering and in the top 10 for Agriculture and for Engineering as a whole which includes Chemical, Civil, Electrical and Electronic and Mechanical Engineering (including Marine Technology). In addition, we are in the UK top 20 for Statistics, Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences, Computer Science and Informatics, and Applied Mathematics. In teaching, the majority of our Schools scored >90% for overall satisfaction in the 2008 National Student Survey and both our home undergraduate and overseas taught postgraduate applications this year have increased by 10% above the national average for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics subjects. If you want to study in one of the most forward-looking faculties in the UK, please use this website to explore our wide range of courses and our diverse areas of research.
l Schools and research units l Agriculture, Food and Rural Development l Biology l Biopharmaceutical Bioprocessing Technology Centre (BBTC) l Catalysis and Intensified Processing, Research Centre in l Chemical Engineering and Advanced Materials l Chemistry l Civil Engineering and Geosciences l Computing Science l Digital Institute (formerly Informatics Research Institute) l Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering l Earth Systems Engineering Research, Centre for (CESER) l Sustainability, Newcastle Institute for Research on (NIReS) l nanoLAB l Newcastle Centre for Railway Research (NewRail) l The North East Regional e-Science Centre l Marine Science and Technology l Mathematics and Statistics l Mechanical and Systems Engineering l Rural Economy Centre for (CRE) l Sir Joseph Swan Centre for Energy Research (SWAN) l Software Reliability , Centre for (CSR)
Northumbria University LIFE SCIENCES Life Sciences is a brand new School – a marriage of the former School of Psychology and Sport Sciences and parts of the School of Applied Sciences. It comprises six academic departments Biology, Food and Nutritional Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Chemical and Forensic Sciences, Psychology, Sport and Exercise Sciences, Sport Development - that together have built up an excellent reputation for research and consultancy activity and a portfolio of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in biology, biomedical sciences, chemistry, forensic sciences, food and nutritional sciences, psychology, sport and exercise sciences and sport development, management and coaching. The launch of the new School marks the culmination of a remarkable period of growth across the life science disciplines, embracing a £5 million refurbishment of bioscience and psychology laboratories and a state-of-the-art suite of sport science laboratories that form part of the new £30 million Sport Central City Campus investment. An exciting research culture thrives within the School, with significant success in the Research Assessment Exercise 2008 (RAE) across departments. We deliver regional, national and international research projects, working collaboratively with many external organisations including government agencies and funding bodies, multi-national companies, community groups, regional agencies and SMEs. For further information regarding the courses offered by Life Sciences at Northumbria University, you can find out more at www.northumbria.ac.uk 54-55 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
THE SCHOOL OF COMPUTING, ENGINEERING & INFORMATION SCIENCES A School that teaches some of the most important skills needed for anyone who wants to work in the real world in the 21st century. The country is crying out for good quality graduates in computing, engineering, information science and mathematics in order to maintain our competitiveness as an economic power. So if you are wondering which subjects will boost your employability – look no further! Here in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne, you can build a portfolio of knowledge and skills that can make you stand out in the modern employment market. For further details, explore www.northumbria.ac.uk The School will also look after you very well while you are here! They are extremely proud of the support they offer from enrolment to graduation, no matter which of the programmes you study and you will be assigned a personal tutor to offer you individual support from when you start with us. The School also offers scholarships, first class accommodation, wireless internet access across the campus, first-rate sports facilities and modern teaching facilities to make learning a pleasure.
SCHOOL OF HEALTH, COMMUNITY & EDUCATION STUDIES Situated at Northumbria University’s Coach Lane Campus, a short 15 minute journey from Newcastle city centre by either bus or metro service, our learning and teaching facilities are
either newly built or have been recently refurbished. Our professional preparation or pre-registration programmes in nursing, midwifery, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, social work and initial teacher training are all accredited and Profession approved, while our practice placement areas, besides being extensive are frequently monitored and audited to ensure your experience is positive and rewarding. Personal and organisational development following pre-registration are explicit components of our School Philosophy which mirrors the University’s mission to offer Lifelong learning opportunities.
SCHOOL OF THE BUILT & NATURAL ENVIRONMENT The School is a major national and international provider of higher education for the built environment-related and geography and environmental disciplines. We offer a broad range of programmes at undergraduate and postgraduate level. Many of our courses have received accreditation by relevant professional bodies, providing an excellent standard of teaching, designed to equip graduates with the foundations needed to begin a successful and rewarding career. The School of the Built and Natural Environment is innovative and forward thinking, specialising in relevant research in the built and natural world. New technologies are paramount and we are engaged in the use of virtual reality, computer simulation and digital geospatial information. We are actively engaged in enterprise activity and have close links with many employers in built and natural environment
related disciplines. Please view our Enterprise page for more information on this. l Postgraduate courses l Undergraduate courses l Distance Learning
SCHOOL OF DESIGN Northumbria School of Design is a hugely passionate team of people, which has the will and commitment to champion Design towards what we may call “The New Architecture”. By this we mean using design in an architectural way; as a strategic thinker, social innovator, product developer and creator of all ‘things’ beautiful in order to creatively transform things, places and lives. With over 1800 students from over 65 countries and approximately 120 staff, we are a vibrant community with one of the most diverse ranges of design courses to be found in any UK University and a rich design research culture rated ‘Word Class’ in the 2008 RAE. l School of Design Film l Message from the Dean l School of Design in Newcastle l School of Design in London
Queen Alexandra Sixth Form College OUTSTANDING STEM RESULTS AT A LEVEL
A LEVEL STEM SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMME
TyneMet’s partner college and dedicated A Level Sixth Form, Queen Alexandra, is one of the top performing colleges in the country for Science and Maths with 100% pass rate across many AS and A2 subjects including Maths, Further Maths and Physics. Also, more than half of Queen Alexandra’s students taking Physics and Further Maths are gaining the highest possible grades (A*, A or B).1
Queen Alexandra Sixth Form College launched a prestigious Scholarship Programme focussing on STEM careers in 2011 and already has a number of multinational and local organisations involved in providing opportunities for our students.
Queen Alexandra Sixth Form College outranked all other English schools in its category for AS Use of Maths to win two prestigious ‘Good Schools Guide Awards’ for 2011. These coveted A Level awards recognise teaching excellence: an accolade that further demonstrates the College’s commitment to outstanding results, support for our A Level students and vision for growth in STEM areas for the future.
The Scholarship Programme is a prestigious academic scholarship competition to assist students who have exceptional academic or creative abilities to develop each individual’s talents to reach their full potential. In partnership with local employers, the Programme empowers the students of North East England to achieve their dreams with real life employment opportunities in STEM areas to bring their studies to life and make a connection between theory learned in the classroom and the reality of the workplace. For more information on the STEM Scholarship Programme, visit www.tynemet.ac.uk/scholarships For more information on the range of A levels at Queen Alexandra, visit www.queenalex.co.uk
August 2011 AS and A2 results for students at Queen Alexandra Sixth Form College in North Shields. 1
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Nurturing tomorrow’s scientists, engineers and entrepreneurs... The primary objective of our company is to promote engineering and science-based careers as an attractive option for the North East region’s students. Through planned and structured work experience with local businesses, an extensive range of programmes has been implemented to generate enthusiastic and motivated seedcorn young people who aspire to achieve career progression through science-based activities in the engineering, technology and manufacturing sectors. By embracing a strategy involving participation, partnerships and sharing best practice, the charity is actively pursuing a national leadership role in all matters relating to Young Apprenticeships, 14-19 Diplomas and the delivery of meaningful work experience activity.
The charity seeks to ensure that through excellence and progression, a high calibre staff cohort is available to allow businesses to prosper in both local and international markets. For more information about the opportunities you can access with TDR Training visit www.tdrtraining.co.uk
Tyne Metropolitan College At the heart of North Tyneside’s diverse economic base, Tyne Metropolitan College is a beacon for inspiration and aspiration. Specialist vocational teams are leading the drive to encourage the development of new industries and technologies across the region. GROWING THE REGION’S FUTURE LEADERS
INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION OF ENGINEERS
Tyne Metropolitan College and partner Sixth Form College, Queen Alexandra, are committed to providing outstanding education and training so that our students, the local area and employers can succeed and prosper.
Engineering is a varied and exciting subject that opens up a huge range of opportunities to design, develop and build almost anything in the world. TyneMet’s Engineering department offers students a taste of many different industries from electrical, mechanical, robotics, pharmaceutical, renewable energies, and many more.
The STEM agenda is integral to the College’s growth and development plans. We are already a regional leader for Engineering and Technology, with a wide range of vocational courses at TyneMet designed to up-skill and advance both employees and employers across the North East. 58-59 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
BUSINESS AMBASSADORS TyneMet College’s innovative Business Ambassador programme continues to capture imaginations across the borough keen to lend their support and expertise to the employees of the future. Each curriculum within the college boasts a designated Business Ambassador - available to work alongside tutors to prepare students for the workplace and, in a number of cases, sponsor students ahead of their move into full or part-time employment.
TAILORED BUSINESS TRAINING TyneMet College provides a range of tailored training programmes for employers, which are fully accredited and monitored by our expert team of workforce development consultants. Training options include work-based learning programmes which are designed to fit around individual business requirements as well as a huge range of Apprenticeships and Advanced Apprenticeships. As part of the College’s Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) strategy there is an ongoing commitment to
meet the demand of specialist employers and encourage further inward investment. Regional employers continue to benefit from the college’s focus on targeted skills and enhanced student learning. The College’s aim is to develop highly trained workers with qualifications in STEM related fields and the skills that employers are looking for, to meet the growing demand for innovative and ambitious employees across the region and beyond. For more information on TyneMet’s range of vocational courses and work-based training opportunities, visit www. tynemet.ac.uk
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STEM Contacts & Further information
STEM Contact List British Medical Association – “Becoming a Doctor” The British Medical Association has a dedicated web-area to becoming a doctor:
you a chance to work in multidisciplinary teams? For more information go to: www.ipem.ac.uk/careers/Pages/default.aspx
www.bma.org.uk/careers/becoming_doctor/ becomingadoctor.jsp
www.ipem.ac.uk/careers/ modernisingscientificcareers/Pages/default.aspx
The British Medical Association has a dedicated publication that is regularly updated:
Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons
www.bma.org.uk/images/becomingadoctor2012_ tcm41-198047.pdf
The Royal College is the awarding body for veterinary nurse qualifications. You can find out about the Awarding Body, the role of a veterinary surgeon and more at:
Institute of Physics
www.awardingbody.rcvs.org.uk/home/
To find out more about careers opportunities in the field:
Royal Meteorological Society
www.physics.org/careers
There are opportunities for pure research, applied research, operational work, scientific and commercial management, entrepreneurial ventures, teaching and consultancy:
Institute of Materials Careers information about roles that intimately work with physics, chemistry and engineering:
www.rmets.org/activities/careers/index.php
www.materials-careers.org.uk/index.html
Cogent Careers
Institute of Physics and Engineering Do you want to use your enthusiasm for science and technology in a way that benefits patients’ lives and gives
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Information on careers in chemical, petroleum, pharmaceuticals, polymers, nuclear, oil and gas (aka process industries) www.cogent-careers.com
National Skills Academy for Process Industries www.process.nsacademy.co.uk
National Skills Academy for Environmental Technologies www.nsaet.org.uk
Energy & Utility Sector Skills Council For more information about careers in the gas industry, low carbon industry, power industry, waste management, water industry: www.euskills.co.uk/careers National Skills Academy for Power (Careers website) www.thinkpowersector.co.uk E-Skills Sector Skills Council Up to date information on careers in IT: www.e-skills.com/careers Improve – Food and Drinks Processing and Manufacture Sector Skills Council
Maths Careers The range of careers open to STEM graduates is very broad. See a collection of personal career profiles of STEM graduates, as well as links to other websites that feature such profiles: www.mathscareers.org.uk Tomorrow’s Engineers Tomorrow’s Engineers provides a wealth of information to help you make wise choices about your future in engineering. The website has careers information, study options, lots of interactive activities including videos and case studies: www.tomorrowsengineers.org.uk/home.cfm National Skills Academy for Creative & Cultural
For information about careers in the food and drink processing and manufacturing sector:
Information about the industry, skills and entry routes to careers in the creative and cultural sectors:
www.improveltd.co.uk
www.nsa-ccskills.co.uk/what-we-do
National Skills Academy for Food and Drink
National Skills Academy for Nuclear
www.foodanddrink.nsacademy.co.uk
Information about the industry, skills and entry routes to careers in the nuclear industry:
Financial Skills Partnership Sector Skills Council Information about careers in finance, accountancy and financial services: www.financialskillspartnership.org.uk Pro-Skills Sectors Skills Council Information and guidance on careers in the process and manufacturing industries www.proskills.co.uk/careers www.prospect4u.co.uk (dedicated careers website for students)
www.nuclear.nsacademy.co.uk National Skills Academy for IT Information about the industry, skills and entry routes to careers in IT: www.itskillsacademy.ac.uk National Skills Academy for Manufacturing Information about the industry, skills and entry routes to careers in manufacturing: www.nsa-m.co.uk
Lantra (Environmental Based) Sector Skills Council
National Skills Academy for Railway Engineering
Find out information about each of the 16 landbased and environmental industries on offer and the opportunities for career progression:
Information about the industry, skills and entry routes to careers in railway engineering:
www.lantra.co.uk/careers/careers-home.aspx
www.nsare.org National Skills Academy for Construction
Semta Sector Skills Council (Engineering and Manufacturing Techs)
Information about the industry, skills and entry routes to careers in construction:
Careers information and guidance in science, engineering and manufacturing technologies sectors:
www.construction.nsacademy.co.uk
www.semta.org.uk/careers__qualifications.aspx
Skills to Grow North East
Summit Skills (Building Services Engineering) Sector Skills Council www.summitskills.org.uk/careers/23 www.goodday.org.uk (dedicated careers website for students)
www.skillstogrowne.co.uk
Fancy a career in physics? Then feel the force For many students, the very idea of physics may be a somewhat abstract one but, in fact, the study of forces lies at the heart of everything we do. And according to the Institute of Physics, there are a number of often-asked questions which students need to consider when discussing higher education options which may require knowledge of the subject.
The Institute of Physics has lots of information and resources about physics related careers, learning and opportunities which can be found on the following websites: www.futuremorph.org www.physics.org/careers www.iop.org/16-19 www.myphysicscourse.org The information which follows is an example of some of the most often asked questions about careers and physics. Do I need to be good at mathematics? NC/D and degree courses in physics, engineering and materials science are very likely to make quite heavy demands on a student’s mathematical ability. Very few courses fail to list mathematics as a requirement at this level. What grades are needed for entry? These vary enormously from establishment to establishment and it is worth checking with whichever education establishment at which you hope to study. What are salaries like? It depends on the job but many starting salaries in careers requiring physics can be around the £20,000 mark. Do I need physics to become an archaeologist? Most archaeology courses do not require science qualifications beyond GCSEs/SCEs, although they need higher qualifications in other subjects. However, some BSc degree courses do require chemistry at A level (or equivalent). Many enter this
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field at postgraduate level and, for a science-related course, a degree in physics is one means of entry. Do I need physics to become an architect? Not necessarily, much depends on the nature of the course applied for. Some are very strongly geared to the design side and require more in the way of artistic flair. Others, however, do specify A levels (or equivalent) in physics and/ or mathematics. Detailed inspection of course prospectuses is needed. Do I need physics to become an astronaut? Despite it probably being the highest risk profession of all, the number of applicants per available post is extremely large - your chance of joining an astronaut training programme is therefore small (but not zero). Half of all European Space Agency (ESA) astronauts have previously been military aviators, usually also undertaking test pilot roles. Most of the others had physics degrees or previous careers in aerospace medicine. NASA astronauts were initially almost all military test pilots but now tend to come from those with degrees in biological and physical sciences, medicine, engineering or mathematics. The ESA and NASA web-sites provide good insights into the job of being an astronaut and the qualifications, health and fitness levels required. Do I need physics to become a dentist? Not usually. Chemistry and biology at AS level now appear to be almost compulsory with one or other, or both also required at A level. As with medicine, competition is high and points
scores of 320 (A level grades ABB or equivalent) and above are usually required. Do I need physics to become a doctor? The most common requirement is to have A level (or equivalent) chemistry plus two other A levels (or equivalent) from biology, physics and mathematics. However, some establishments are now taking AS qualifications into account. Biology is often now being demanded, at least to AS level. Competition for courses in medicine is high and points scores of 340 (A level grades AAB or equivalent) and above are usually required. The British Medical Association’s booklet Becoming a doctor is an excellent guide to applying to medical school. Do I need physics to become an engineer? Mathematics and physics are key components of engineering courses. A common requirement is to have A level (or equivalent) in both mathematics and physics. Engineering Physics courses are specially geared to provide the background knowledge and skills suited to a career in the engineering industry. Do I need physics to become a forensic scientist? The majority of the work in forensic science involves biology and chemistry and so most opportunities arise for those with related qualifications. However, those with physics at A level (or equivalent) or degree level, may also apply and, depending on recruitment needs at the time, may be successful. Do I need physics to become a materials scientist or metallurgist? These two subjects are intimately involved with physics, chemistry and engineering. Therefore it is usual to have A levels (or equivalent) in physics, chemistry and mathematics. The Institute of Materials publishes helpful literature in these fields. What is a medical physicist and how does one qualify? Medical physicists are involved in ensuring the safe operation and maintenance of the equipment used in X-radiography, ultrasound scanning, magnetic resonance imaging and nuclear medicine. With doctors they assess and treat patients, supervise radiation doses and protect both patients and staff from potential radiation hazards. Additionally they are often involved in the design of new instruments. An honours degree in a physical or engineering science is a requirement. A two-year training programme follows, leading to an MSc and the Diploma of the Institute of Physics and Engineering and Medicine (IPEM). The IPEM’s booklet Physics and Engineering in Medicine provides a useful insight into this profession. Do I need physics to become a meteorologist? Meteorology requires a good knowledge and understanding of both physics and mathematics. The majority of professional meteorologists in the past entered the field through a first degree in physics or mathematics then took a postgraduate qualification in meteorology. This is still common but increasing numbers enter with degrees in computing, environmental studies, physical geography and electronics. It is also possible to enter via A levels or HNC qualifications (or similar) in a mathematical or physical science discipline and progress through vocational training to higher qualifications. The Royal Meteorological Society’s pamphlet Careers in Meteorology is useful. Do I need physics to become an optometrist? Entry to degree courses is usually with three A levels (or equivalent), at least two of which would be sciences. A
biological science and mathematics are often specified. Typical offers are around ABB. The College of Optometrists’ booklet A Career in Vision Care provides useful information into all aspects of vision care and lists universities where qualifications can be obtained. University prospectuses will provide more specific details of subjects required for entry. Courses are also available requiring a minimum of five GCSEs (grades A* to C or equivalent, one of which has to be a science-based subject) which will lead to qualifying as a dispensing optician; some are degree courses requiring A levels or equivalent. Do I need physics to become a pilot? British Airways has traditionally run one of the largest sponsored pilot training schemes for becoming a civil airline pilot. To qualify, when vacancies arise, two or more A levels (or equivalent) at grade C or above, preferably in mathematics or physics, are needed or an honours degree (2.2) or better. There are also height, weight, fitness and health requirements. Reference should be made to the British Airways Recruitment web-site (www.britishairwaysjobs.com). Go to Starting your career and then Trainee pilot. Alternatively, 12 courses run at training schools approved by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) can be privately funded. For a career flying with the military, visit your local Armed Forces Careers Office. Do I need physics to become a vet? The qualifications needed to become a veterinary surgeon are similar to those for becoming a doctor. Chemistry at A level (or equivalent) is required, plus one or two more A levels from biology, physics or mathematics grades AAB are usual. Some universities will accept two AS levels in lieu of one A level, although chemistry must be a full A level. Those with SCE Highers require chemistry, together with two from biology, physics and mathematics, plus two more to give typical grades of AAABB. It is also advised to have the Advanced Higher or CSYS in chemistry and either biology or physics. The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons can provide more information. To find out more about careers opportunities in the field, and about bursaries for students hoping to study the subject at university, go to www.physics.org/careers Join the Institute of Physics for free and receive: l Regular updates on what’s new in physics l Exam and university guidance l Information about careers from physics l The chance to interact with other young physicists By joining the Institute of Physics, not only will you become part of the UK’s largest physics community, but you will also get full access to Physics World online and physicsworld.com. You will also receive regular updates on upcoming science TV programmes, events, competitions and lots of other exclusive 16-19 member offers. Membership for A-level students can be made at www.iop.org/16-19 Search for and find the right physics degree at www.myphysicscourse.org
Kola at a landfill drilling site of Coal Bed Methane at Rochdale near Manchester. The equipment can drill to a depth of 500 metres.
Inspiring the scientists of tomorrow Talk to any scientist and they will pay tribute to the people who inspired them when they were considering their career choices. Tapping into that sense of inspiration is the Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths Network (STEMNET), which specialises in creating opportunities to inspire young people in STEM. The network’s work includes co-ordinating the UK-wide STEM Ambassadors programme, which encourages professionals to volunteer as inspiring role models for school students. Each Ambassador uses STEM skills in their everyday lives and has a desire to help more young people understand how Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths can help them achieve their potential. The scheme has grown so that there are more than 27,000 volunteers registered STEM Ambassadors, who are available as a free resource for teachers, schools and colleges across the UK. 66-67 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
What do STEM Ambassadors do? Each volunteer Ambassador is registered, trained and CRB-checked and can help teachers in a variety of ways – within the curriculum and beyond- using their enthusiasm and expertise. Types of activities include: l Assisting with STEM clubs – either within school hours or as part of extended school l Helping add a work-related perspective to curriculum topics, like energy, health and sustainability l
Providing insights into career opportunities arising from STEM qualifications – both traditional and less traditional STEM-related careers
l Facilitating workplace visits where appropriate and helping students get the best from them l Assisting with various activities, both within the timetable and outside it l Working as mentors to students, helping to encourage them and develop their motivation and employability skills.
Kola - an inspiring story One of the STEM Ambassadors is Kola Liadi Mudashiru, a research student at Newcastle University working in the field of environmentallyfriendly energy. Kola is a research associate in the clean use of fossil fuels and is breaking new ground in the development of revolutionary techniques to produce energy from coal in a way that is ‘carbon neutral’. The work includes developing innovative ways to store waste carbon dioxide in underground cavities. There is global interest in his work, and Kola predicts that these new techniques have the potential to create 5,000 new jobs in the UK alone. Kola is passionate about communicating science to young people so that they can follow in his path. He said: “I want to help raise the ambitions, hopes and aspirations of the next generation of scientists.” Getting in touch STEMNET works with a range of partners to manage STEM Ambassadors locally – these are organisations skilled in facilitating business-education links. They can help teachers determine how they can most benefit from involvement with an Ambassador and then find someone who fits their requirements. For more information, visit www.stemnet.org. uk and use the regional map to find your local contact.
Cogent - Chemicals, Pharmaceuticals, Nuclear, Oil and Gas, Petroleum & Polymers Information provided by Cogent, the Sector Skills Council for the Science Based Industries, working in the fields of: l l l l l l
Chemicals Pharmaceuticals Nuclear Petroleum Oil and Gas Polymers
What do these industries mean to us all? Most goods used by people in their homes, at work and in their everyday activities are derived from the chemical, nuclear, oil and gas, petroleum and polymer industries. These industries combine to produce everything from fuel for cars and heating for homes to bitumen, plastics, paints and inks, rubber, synthetic fibres for clothing, pharmaceuticals and the energy necessary for the country to function. Cogent and trade bodies estimate that the sector employs 900,000 people across 23,000 companies, responsible for spending nearly ÂŁ7.8 billion a year on new investment, excluding the significant Nuclear sector which could double this alone through new build. More than two thirds of employers employ 10 people or fewer, just over half of the workforce is engaged by companies with in excess of 50 staff, and one third by those with a headcount above 200.
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There is a constant demand for people to become the next generation of scientists, engineers and production operatives, supervisors, designers, managers, technicians and industry leaders. The overall employment requirement for these sectors by 2017 is for an additional 105,000 people. l l l l l l
Polymers needs 40,000 people Pharmaceuticals (manufacturing only) needs 25,000 Chemicals needs 15,000 Manufactured Fuels needs 8,000 Oil and Gas needs 7,000 Nuclear – needs 10,000
What kind of jobs can I apply for? There are eleven main work areas across the six industries: l l l l l l l l l l l
Operator Technician - (in Instrumentation, Electrical, Mechanical or Process areas) Engineer - (in chemical/process/mechanical/ electrical) Research and Development Analysis Product development Quality Control Maintenance Health Safety and Environment Training and Development/HR Management roles.
Typical jobs available:
The job needs
Maintenance Technician
l l l l l l
Carrying out a wide range of maintenance work on equipment and plants Entry Level A minimum of 3 GCSEs OR 3 standard grades (English, Maths and a science or technical subject). Entry is normally through an apprenticeship programme including a Level 3 Technical certificate and a Level 3 S/NVQ specified in the framework. Industry Standard HNC in mechanical, instrument or electrical engineering or related subject S/NVQ Level 3 in Maintenance Engineering or other related subject Apprenticeship Completion certificate Functional Skills – IT Level 2 The job needs l l l l
Good communication skills The ability to read and understand piping and instrumentation drawings and other engineering documents including permits to work Problem solving Team-working
Laboratory Analyst Analysts work in a laboratory and use a range of equipment to analyse raw materials, products and packaging components to ensure that the product meets the necessary quality specifications. Entry Level
Good communication skills. Able to read and understand piping and instrumentation drawings and other engineering documents. Project management skills. Responds to production planning and operational requirements. Prepare for planned and unplanned maintenance activities. Problem solving.
Oil and Gas Industry Technician These play an important part in the production of oil and gas in maintaining the systems used in the extraction processes. They work as either process operation technicians or maintenance technicians. Entry level Entry to this work is through an Apprenticeship known as the Upstream Oil and Gas Industry Technician Training Programme that is run in partnership by OPITO – The Oil & Gas Academy and the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board. On completion, they are awarded with a Higher National Certificate and an NVQ/SVQ Level 3. Application forms can be obtained from www. oilandgastechnicians.com Applicants to the training programme normally need one of the following: l l
at least four GCSEs (A-C) including English, maths and one subject from physics, chemistry, double science or technological studies those who do not have a science subject require at least four GCSEs, including maths at grade A and English and two other subjects at grades A to C.
The job needs
HNC/D in a Science subject or Degree in Science subject.
l has a scientific and methodical approach to work
The job needs
l is willing to train and work away from home
l l l l l l l l
Ability to present information both written and verbally; Strong attention to detail; A commitment to accuracy; Good problem-solving ability; A patient, meticulous and methodical approach; Good interpersonal skills; Flexibility; Ability to work as part of a team.
Engineer Can work across all areas, from refineries to nuclear plant. Entry Level Degree in Chemical, Mechanical, Instrument or Electrical Engineering (or other engineering discipline) Extensive experience in refinery plant operation or maintenance Industry Standard Degree in Engineering as above Extensive experience in refinery plant operation or maintenance Functional Skills IT Level 2
l l l l l l l l l l
works well in a team but be able to take individual responsibility is reliable, responsible and safety-conscious is good with their hands and with tools can work at heights can solve technical problems quickly and creatively can communicate effectively with colleagues has good IT skills has self-confidence and sound judgement is well motivated can keep up with advancing technology
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STEM Industry Profiles
Aerospace Engineer - Lee Evans http://goo.gl/xkPVE Aerospace Engineer - Pete Thomas http://goo.gl/lLkly Aerospace Engineer - Sarah Nicholls http://goo.gl/blZ9m
Mechanical Engineer - Anchala Klein http://goo.gl/AzlcV Mechanical Engineer - Ben Meredith http://goo.gl/Gnn3P Mechanical Engineer - Joe Fennell http://goo.gl/HmyZv Mechanical Engineer - Mike Wolfendale http://goo.gl/l36Mp Mechanical Engineer - Ben Meredith http://goo.gl/juKZu
Electrical Engineer - Jenny McGeough http://goo.gl/DX8jJ Electrical Engineer - Scott Keough http://goo.gl/qSWyo Environmental Engineer - Andrew Wilkes http://goo.gl/gGVon Environmental Engineer - Louis Brimacombe http://goo.gl/x2lQF
21st Century Careers in the North East Digital Opportunities www.youtu.be/-3Ao3cDE2x8 Renewables Opportunities www.youtu.be/8QT0j8lk_1E Engineering Opportunities www.youtu.be/EDoIqMOF25s
Chemical Engineer - Sarah Reed http://goo.gl/pKtu8
Advanced Manufacturing Opportunities www.youtu.be/MsoBH9ZTLgU
Chemical Engineer - Sherrie Ann Najab http://goo.gl/vtLRn
Engineering Industry Overview http://goo.gl/X8WQz
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Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering Civil Engineer - Andy Milner http://goo.gl/O5Jpy Civil Engineer - Chris Webster http://goo.gl/f3A0j Civil Engineer - Joseph Durrant http://goo.gl/X0FpO Civil Engineer - Laura Shemirani http://goo.gl/8BYul Management Consultant - Sally Martin http://goo.gl/Yry9X Nucleer Engineer - Belaal Auladin http://goo.gl/Wmynn
Civil Engineer - Rachael Screeton http://goo.gl/f9ZTP
Come back soon for lots of new information about Advanced Manfucturing Graduate Engineer - Dee Nunn http://goo.gl/zVWaj Defence Engineer - Charlie August http://goo.gl/o7BcY
ADVANCED MANUFACTURING A commitment to developing new talent One of the North East companies which has a deep commitment to bring through apprentices is BAE Systems, one of whose UK sites is on Tyneside. The company works in a variety of fields including combat vehicles, artillery and munitions as well as in the aviation and marine sectors. There are plenty of opportunities available, including engineering, logistics and technical data management. Its continuing growth means it can offer incredibly rewarding careers to innovative, ambitious, customer-focused individuals in a wide variety of commercial and technical areas.
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Jobs available in the North East and at BAE’s other centres include:
Engineering & Design Areas of work include: l l l l l l l l
Airworthiness Design Electrical Mechanical Optics Software Structural Systems
Quality & Assurance Areas of work include: l Audit l Health & Safety Engineering l Quality Management
Sales, Marketing & Communications Areas of work include: l l l l
Business Development External Communications Managers Internal Communications Managers Marketing
Project Management Typical roles include: l Engineering Managers l Programme Managers in all disciplines l Project Managers in all disciplines
Finance & Commercial Typical roles include: l l l l l
Accountants Commercial Managers Finance Manager Project Accountants Treasury
Human Resources Typical roles within HR include: l HR Advisor l HR Business Partner l HR Manager
Procurement & Supply Chain Our typical roles include: l Supply Chain Analyst l Procurement Manager l Buyer
Legal Typical roles here include: l Legal Counsel l Patent Attorneys
Business Support Careers include: l l l l l
Administrators Coordinators Facilities & Property Management Personal Assistants Secretaries
Manufacturing & Operations Areas of work and typical roles include: l l l l l l l l l
CNC Setter Drillers Electricians Fitters Manufacturing Management Planning Production Steelworkers Welders
Apprenticeships There are various ways to start working for the company, one of which is apprenticeships which BAE Systems enthusiastically support. Join BAE Systems as an apprentice, and you’ll occupy a very special place within our business. The company treats its young talent as a crucial part of its future. So at every stage, you can expect to have significant time and money invested in your development. You’ll benefit from some of the best training around, and gain qualifications that will give you a great start in your career. Perhaps even more importantly, you’ll have the chance to learn from world-class colleagues, and experience the kind of landmark projects anyone would want on their CV. Each apprenticeship is designed around the needs of a specific career path, ensuring that a young person is able to fully develop their skills More information is available at www.baesystems.com
Apprentice Sean Bolton
ADVANCED MANUFACTURING Polyphotonix Polyphotonix is a leader in the development of the North East’s high-end manufacturing, pioneering the use of organic light. Organic lighting technology (OLED) is used in the manufacture of cameras and small television screens. Unlike the lighting we use every day, organic lights are flexible, flat and do not heat up when in use, remaining cool to the touch. It also has a highly superior visual quality, improved colour rendering and amazing pixel definition.
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Organic lighting is well suited to being a diffuse light source for architectural surfaces, designer lamps, signs, windows, window shades and general illumination. Organic lighting has limitless possibilities and provides indefinite potential and opportunities to fashion designers through to product designers, artists and architects. Polyphotonix are based in County Durham, at PETEC (the UK’s National Printable Electronics Technology Centre). Being located at PETEC enables Polyphotonix to access state of the art manufacturing equipment, and to invest in developing staff skills, advancing their position against competitors. Working with designers and customers, they create new products, supporting the design process all the way through to manufacturing and are moving towards high volume production. As well as working on the development of bespoke applications for organic light, Polyphotonix are also working on solutions for general lighting. Architects and designers in particular are excited as the technology of organic lighting is not only incredibly efficient but is also physically more adaptable. Polyphotonix employs highly skilled scientists and designers in the field of printable electronics, each of them bringing a wealth of complementary skills and experience from backgrounds including innovative lighting, process design, technology conversion, market creation, production and other plastic electronic technologies. www.polyphotonix.com
SEAN BOLTON,19 - Apprentice Sean joined Polyphotonix (PPX) 8 months ago. His academic career until then was patchy to say the least and he finished school with a few low grade GCSE’s. The Technical Training Group (TTE) in partnership with the Tees Valley Apprenticeship Programme (TVA) found the placement for Sean and he was selected from a short list of 50 candidates. PolyPhotonix, which has its research plant at PETEC, NetPark in Sedgefield, is pioneering the development of organic light technology (OLED). Sean has been working towards his NVQ Level 3 in Electrical Engineering as part of the Apprenticeship Framework, however his aptitude and ambition means that he is far exceeding his own and the companies’ expectations. As a rule PPX employees require a minimum PhD level degree. The work undertaken by PPX is highly specialised and only a small number companies are involved in OLED process and device development worldwide. Entering this highly skilled and specialised company Sean was initially apprehensive, but within a few weeks he had demonstrated an ability to communicate with world-class physicists and chemists, and contribute to the science programme. In turn PPX saw an unrecognised talent and ability in Sean and have encouraged and supported him to undertake an A levels math examination as an entry into an electronics degree next year, with a view to possibly going even further. Sean now holds a position of responsibility at PPX, and he manages his own experimental work packages. Sean has become a spokesman for TVA and has acquired public speaking skills, which he is pitting to good use encouraging school children to undertake science subjects at school. He has appeared in a number of educational and documentary films over he last few months and is a spokesman for the company. PolyPhotonix has delighted with the experience that Sean has brought to the team and will look to take on more apprentice sin the near future.
the home. And they are ideal for use in large-scale installations, such as the 15 metre long clock that we created for Heathrow’s Terminal 5, and the 12 metre glass wine tower that we built for Stansted’s SAS Radisson Hotel.” With over 10 years’ experience, Richard is widely regarded as a pioneer in the organic lighting field. He is a regular key note speaker at industry events throughout the UK, Europe and the US. And he sits on the advisory boards of a string of organisations. Yet despite all this, and although his main residence is in London, Richard chose to locate PolyPhotonix in the north east. Why? He explains, “Quite simply, CPI’s PETEC facility offers us the kind of support and resources that we couldn’t find anywhere else.
The art of organic lighting How an exciting new CPI spin-off, PolyPhotonix, is “reinventing the way we use light”... New technologies, such as Organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) and Light Emitting Diodes (LED’s), have accelerated the drive towards less ‘conventional’ lighting applications. By contrast, organic light can be manufactured into almost any colour, shape or size. (It’s even been used to create clothing.) Based within CPI’s PETEC (Printable Electronics Technology) Centre at Sedgefield, PolyPhotonix was established with the help of a £3.6m grant from the Technology Strategy Board to develop OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) based applications for the architectural, automotive, medical and creative sectors. The company is not however your typical technology provider. Quite the contrary: founder and CEO Richard Kirk was previously a successful painter, whose work features in collections all over the world. The artist turned entrepreneur says, “Organic light is the future: it offers superior colour rendering, and unlimited design potential. “Because organic lights are flat, flexible, transparent - and remain cool whilst in operation - they enable us to illuminate surfaces in a way that was not previously possible. “They can overcome space constraints - for example lighting up interiors of cars or confined spaces in
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“Developing our own clean room for example – with the necessary equipment, printers and driers and so on – would have proved prohibitively expensive. With CPI’s help we’ve been able to keep our overheads low, whilst we develop our core skills and manufacturing line.” To date, that line includes a series of bespoke applications – including an off-grid solution for the forthcoming Olympics – as well as products for the $100bn general lighting market. Concurrently, Richard and his team have developed an enviable knowledge base, and valuable Intellectual Property, which is expected to lead to lucrative licensing deals in the future. The company is also engaged in a number of joint ventures, including strategic partnerships with Sanko-Gosei and other Blue Chip companies, also a number of Universities – all of whom were attracted by organic lighting’s impeccable environment credentials. Richard says, “Stringent carbon reduction targets are accelerating demand for energy efficient lighting, and investment into sustainable resources. Organic meets these requirements: production is based on printing processes that require little energy. Manufacture involves depositing extremely thin layers of materials at low temperatures. “Organic lighting can also be easily matched to sustainable energy generation systems - such as solar power and wind turbines.” Explaining his unlikely entry into the high tech world of organic lighting, Richard says, “I don’t have an academic background. I have a painting degree. So I stumbled into it almost by accident. My first company succeeded thanks to some good luck and by focusing on ambitious highly visible projects, driven by design.
“We recognised that nobody was interested in our little technology company. But they were interested in the applications that we created – like for example the light dress, which we presented during the 2005 London Fashion Show. “Consequently, every time we sponsored an artist to build something cool and sexy, we’d find ourselves on the front cover of Creative Review or Design Week – publications that are read, of course, by... designers. In other words, our potential customers. “So, all of sudden – by creating dresses, tables and other one-offs - we began receiving direct invitations to talk to design teams for the likes of Mercedes, Ford, Jaguar and Toyota. “At that stage we weren’t developing our own materials; we were taking materials ‘off the shelf’. Instead of working within a lab environment, we went straight into production. It was an extremely steep learning curve. At the peak, we were using 35,000 square metres of a particular substrate every year –more than the rest of UK put together. “Our success came out of nowhere. We didn’t really understand the technology. Instead, we focused on customer relationships. And on building markets. Along the way, we created a great brand. And I started to get invited to more serious academic conferences. “As the business grew, so did my interest in the technology itself. It was around this time that I began thinking about starting the new company.” Having received the necessary financial backing, Kirk immediately sought the support of CPI. The CPI team was receptive to the idea of a joint venture. And PolyPhotonix was born. Richard continues, “CPI has freed up my time to go out into the market – to develop customer relationships and to start making sales. They’ve been a genuine safe-house. Their management support and technical ability have proved absolutely vital. “Quite honestly, without CPI we wouldn’t be here that’s the bottom line. “CPI is helping us to build value in the company through IP development. It’s a great relationship: we supply the ideas, CPI provides the tools we need to assess the viability of those ideas, and to turn them into practical commercial reality.” For now, ‘commercial reality’, for PolyPhotonix, means exploiting smaller niche markets – markets which have, to date, been overlooked by the larger firms. Richard says, “The big established companies are interested only in markets with a current valuation of $1bn plus - which leaves a lot of room for us.
“Remaining lean and responsive - with short chains of communication between us and CPI- gives us the freedom and flexibility to change direction quickly; to react to new opportunities. “Although we operate as a private company, CPI’s extensive resources and support have enabled us to grow at a realistic pace.” Clearly, that growth is accelerating. As of June 2010, the team comprised nine people. At the beginning of May there were just two. The firm’s management team includes PETEC’s Chief Financial Officer Neville Hamlin – a Chartered Management Accountant with a microelectronics track record spanning over 25 years - and Chairman Ralph Pickles, who draws on 20 years’ executive level experience as ex President of Sensient Technologies in the US. Given all this, it’s unlikely to be too long before the fledgling company is ready to fly the CPI nest. When it does, however, it will not be travelling far; most likely, in fact, to another building on the NetPark – that is, the North East Technology Park where it, and PETEC, are currently located. Richard explains, “There’s a growing cluster of forward looking technology companies here – many of whom have been attracted to the region by CPI’s PETEC facility. “Between us we are building a valuable supply chain to the extent that, pretty soon, we’ll have created our own micro climate.”
IT Specialist - David Mallenby http://goo.gl/WamH6 Managing Director Digital Agency - Robert Hollands http://goo.gl/AK6Hi Project Lead Technology - Chris Peake http://goo.gl/wccOv
Software Engineer - Katherine Sanders http://goo.gl/9yclQ Systems Administrator - Daivd Walters http://goo.gl/4ClVK Technologist - Gary Breavington http://goo.gl/ZnfHL Technology Integration Manager - Matt Agar http://goo.gl/c5y3O
Mechanical Engineer - Ben Meredith http://goo.gl/juKZu
Information Developer - Kathryn Briscoe http://goo.gl/2DviQ IT Analyst - Dalijit Raju http://goo.gl/1A6gx IT Consultant - Rebecca Day http://goo.gl/Adikx IT Risk Analyst - Nelly Muleamureuzi http://goo.gl/gd4PR
21st Century Careers in the North East Digital Opportunities www.youtu.be/-3Ao3cDE2x8 Renewables Opportunities www.youtu.be/8QT0j8lk_1E Design Opportunities www.youtu.be/CHlh4_Bz67c Engineering Opportunities www.youtu.be/EDoIqMOF25s
Information Technology Industry Overview http://goo.gl/pvJkt 80-81 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
Advanced Manufacturing Opportunities www.youtu.be/MsoBH9ZTLgU
Digital, IT & Creative Video’s courtesy of www.careerplayer.com
Business Analyst - Saad Mirza http://goo.gl/ATsVV Business Analyst - Jade Vincent http://goo.gl/7aAN9
Director Quantitative Analyst - Claudia Yastremiz http://goo.gl/uNvRF
Head of Multichannel Opperations - Simon Wood http://goo.gl/OulsF
TV and Media Industry Overview http://goo.gl/N4ad4 Co-Founder Aardman Animations - David Sproxton http://goo.gl/4c0Aq Commercials Directors - Steve Harding & Luis Cook http://goo.gl/97Ljp
Come back soon for lots of new information about Digital, IT & Creative
DIGITAL, IT & CREATIVE There are lots of websites and organisations out there that support and give insight to the Digital, IT & Creative industries. We’ve listed below a selection that will give you a good start in learning more about existing and potential opportunities, and to get an idea of what the industries are about. 82-83 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
National sources of information Big Ambition www.bigambition.co.uk Creative Skillset Sector Skills Council for the Creative Industries including: l Interactive media l Computer games l Photo imaging l Advertising l TV, film and radio l Publishing www.creativeskillset.org Cyber Security Challenge UK www.cybersecuritychallenge.org.uk Lots of information about Cyber Security professions, training, education and projects to help you figure out if it is an industry that you could be interested in working in. Design Council www.designcouncil.org.uk A national enterprising charity bringing the transformative power of design to the things that matter in all of our lives such as innovation, health and the built environment. Check out the following areas of the website which have lots of information about design itself and most importantly the careers that design can lead to: l Design as a Profession http://goo.gl/1KXDh l About design http://goo.gl/D2UZV Edge Online www.edge-online.com Lots of games industry insight, tips, advice and articles about developing a career in the industry. E-Skills www.e-skills.com The Sector Skills Council for Business & IT covering digital economy sectors including: l Software l Internet l Computer Gaming l IT Services l Business Change Expertise Future Morph www.futuremorph.org Lots of information about the careers you could have from studying Math and science subjects. Check out the careers area of the website for brilliant videos and facts. National Skills Academy for IT www.itskillsacademy.ac.uk This is an employer led organisation that supports IT learning and development
TIGA www.tiga.org The trade association for the UK’s games industry providing lots of information on the industry itself, education and training you might need, new technologies and developments, jobs and the companies that are out there. Tomorrows Engineers www.tomorrowsengineers.org.uk Lots of information about digital and IT related engineering career opportunities.
Local sources of information Codeworks Connect www.codeworksconnect.net The trade association for digital businesses across the North East of England Culture Lab at Newcastle University www.culturelab.ncl.ac.uk Creative practice using the creative arts and interactive technologies. Design Network North www.designnetworknorth.org Digital City www.thedigitalcity.org Digital hub for North East digital media, digital technology and creative business The Hub Gateshead www.thehubgateshead.co.uk Employer group for local commercial creative and digital businesses Northumbria School of Computing, Engineering & Information Sciences www.northumbria.ac.uk Northumbria School of Design www.northumbria.ac.uk SiDE at Newcastle University www.side.ac.uk
SiDE is the social inclusion for the digital economy project. Find out about the research being done and the areas that are affected by digital technologies and innovation
IT Users It is important that every person in the UKdevelops their general IT skills so that they become good “IT Users”.
Sunderland Software City www.sunderlandsoftwarecity.com
In today’s society, it is just as important to have adequate IT skills as it is to have reading, writing and arithmetic skills as they support people to:
Sunderland University www.sunderland.ac.uk Teesside University www.tees.ac.uk Webdesign Futures www.webdesignfutures.co.uk Collective of students from Newcastle College showcasing portfolios, comments and blogs during their time studying on the web design course.
An Introduction to Digital, IT and Creative When people talk to you about Digital, IT and Creative industries and roles, they could be referring to one of any number of sectors and discipline areas. To make it a bit easier in understanding what we mean by Digital, IT and Creative in this chapter (and the rest of the e-book), we’ve listed below the main sectors and discipline areas: l l l l l l l l
Design Digital Media (including digital marketing) Games Development IT Security and Data Protection Software Superfast Broadband Telecommunications
Digital and IT roles are no longer the types of jobs that take place in basements or hidden back offices in a darkly lit room. Nowadays Digital and IT are very popular careers that pay well and are incredibly interesting with opportunities to work with cutting edge technology and to be as creative as you want to be (within reason of course!) The continued growth of Digital and IT activities is dependent upon the UK’s four million business leaders and managers; they need to have a full understanding of the capabilities of IT and digital so that they can be appropriately exploited to stimulate the economy and gain global competitive advantage. An additional £50bn will be generated for the country’s economy within the next five to seven years if business leaders and managers can properly exploit IT and digital. You never know, it could be you that leads the success of these industries! People and digital/IT can be divided in to two categories – IT Users and Professionals:
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l Access opportunities and secure employment e.g. able to operate a computer, to work remotely, to use software packages and search/apply for jobs online; l Interact socially and reduce chances of becoming socially isolated including shopping, entertainment and communication with family/friends; l Access Government information and public services such as the NHS. But, general IT skills and qualifications will not necessarily allow you to have a career in software development or games design. If you study an A-level ICT qualification, you will become “a discerning user of ICT”. Source: E-Skills (2012)
Professionals Studying subjects such as Computing and Computer Science (as well as maths and physics), you will be equipped with the knowledge to pursue a career as an IT & Telecommunications professional. For example; if you study an A-level Computing related qualification, you will “acquire specialist skills and knowledge relating to ICT”. Source: E-Skills (2012)
Did you know….? l “Digital Natives” are people who were born after 1985 and have grown up in a world that is IT intensive. l “Digital Immigrants” are people who have discovered computing and IT in later life. l In the North East we have the highest number of new technology start-up businesses than anywhere else in the UK outside London. l We have three areas of expertise in the North East: Digital Media Development, Games Development and Software. l The North East’s commercial creative sector is worth around £800m with over 2,000 businesses employing more than 25,000 people. l The North East is home to 2,600 IT & Telecommunications workplaces. l There are ‘clusters’ of Digital, IT and Creative businesses throughout the region including:
u Boho One in the Boho Zone of Middlesbrough u Gateshead Baltic area (including Design Network North and the dedicated Northern Design Centre, Gateshead International Business Centre)
u Hoults Yard and Ouseburn areas of Newcastle u MetroCentre area of Gateshead (including Metro Riverside Park) u Quorom and Cobalt Business Parks in North Tyneside u Sunderland Software City
The number of designers and design companies in the North East is growing. In 2012, the most popular areas of design were in Communications, Digital & Multimedia, Product & Industrial and Interior & Exhibition.
l Currently one in 20 people who work in the UK are in an IT or telecommunications job and this will continue to grow. Within the next ten years, the opportunity to gain employment in an IT or digital role will increase, with employment levels in these industries forecast to grow five times more than the UK average. Now is a good time to be considering a career in IT and telecommunications.
The North East is the strongest region in the UK for Product & Industrial design with designers and design companies working closely with engineering and advanced manufacturing companies.
l In the next five years IT and Digital industry employers across the country need 500,000 new IT and telecommunications professionals. l For those of you who are interested a more technical or specialist IT/Digital role, industry needs you to continue your study of physics and/or maths.
u Maths and physics mean you can move in to technical roles such as programming or creative roles such as graphic designers and artists. u Maths and physics will help you get ahead in IT, Digital and Creative organisations
l There are two types of superfast broadband connections: u Copper line upgrades enabling speed increases up to a maximum of 20Mbpsu Ethernet (fibre) upgrades allowing speeds of up to 10Gbps By summer 2012, copper line exchange sites serving 84% of North East homes and businesses will be upgraded. l Sunderland will be the UK’s first city to have wall-towall superfast broadband coverage courtesy of BT. u In summer 2012 around 90% of all homes and businesses will have superfast broadband giving users download speeds of between 40Mbps and 100Mbps, increasing to 300Mbps in 2013.
Working in Digital, IT & Creative industries DESIGN & CREATIVE Design is huge and covers many different sectors and activities and can be difficult to define. For some people, Design is just a part of the job they do, for some it is an interest or hobby and may be something that they feel passionate about. If you’re thinking about Design as a possible career, the easiest way to understand Design is: 1. The Design industry 2. Design as an activity within a company These two elements of Design can be further divided in to the six primary areas outlined later in this chapter, but ultimately, Design is about making something the best that it can be!
In the North East we have: l Around 300 design consultancies/agencies (approximately 75% of design consultancies employ less than five designers and around 10% employ between 10 and 49 designers) l Over 600 freelance designers l And nearly 300 in-house design teams Sources: Design Council (NorthEast 2010 Research), Sharpe Recruitment (2012), NE Bytes (2012)
Fashion and textiles Fashion and textiles has three broad areas, these are product design, manufacturing and servicing and isn’t limited to just clothing. Product design includes: the fabrics and textiles, the final garment or furnishing and the design of fashion. Manufacturing includes: processing raw materials and fibres, weaving, tanning process of leather, production of manmade fibres. To find out more about the fashion and textiles aspect of design & creative, go to Creative Skillset at www. skillset.org. Designer makers Designer makers are people and companies who design and make their own products from concept through to final production. To find out more about designer makers in the North East visit www.designedandmade.co.uk and www. design-event.co.uk Product design Product design happens in lots of different industries such as consumer, industrial and automotive. A product designer will be responsible for designing the form, function and style of an object. The object could be a component part of a machine or engine, it could be a telephone, or, it could be a new piece of medical equipment. The possibilities for a product designer are endless. Local companies who do global product design activities for their industry areas include: Black & Decker Global Design Centre www.stanleyblackanddecker.com Hardy & Greys Ltd www.hardyfishing.com
Hardy Advanced Composites www.hardycomposites.co.uk Tommee Tippee (Mayborn Group Ltd) www. mayborngroup.com Service design This is also referred to as process design. Service designers will often identify problems and generate ideas for improvement; to do this, service designers are good at observing and interpreting behaviours and situations to generate ideas and design solutions. As a service designer you might design a space so that it supports efficient service delivery, or you may re-design products to improve consumers’ interaction whilst using a service. Service designers are often found working within larger organisations in a non-design sector or industry. Digital media Digital media is also known as interactive media. Working in digital/interactive media, you could be working in marketing, supporting clients to communicate their company, products and brand; you could be a web designer; you could be working within e-commerce or online advertising. The opportunities in digital/interactive media are wide-ranging! Digital/interactive media is often considered to be a discipline rather than an industry or sector. An emerging role in digital/interactive media is that of scientific and technical communications. Technical communicators have scientific or technical knowledge of the subject area and most importantly, can be creative in the way that information about the product or service is designed so that is easy to understand. Technical communication roles are varied - job titles in which you could be doing technical communication include:
videos www.kurodragon.com/showcase. Technical communications and marketing are increasing in demand, particularly from the subsea and process industries who want to make their industry and work more accessible to the wider public. Local digital media agencies include: Blue Kangaroo www.bluekangaroodesign.co.uk Enigma www.enigma-interactive.co.uk Leighton www.leighton.com M’Ology www.m-ology.co.uk TH_NK www.think.eu Other local creative digital/interactive media design and development companies include: Atom Hawk Design www.atomhawk.com Guerilla www.guerilla.co.uk Mobious www.mobious.net Rufus www.rufus.co.uk Vector 76 www.vector76.co.uk App and Games Design These areas of design can be particularly IT intensive, requiring technical design and programming skills; they are also very creative areas to work in as you could find yourself in an artist role. We’ve gone in to more detail about games development later in this section so make sure you keep reading!
l Information
App design and development can be an activity in a design agency or it can be an independent company specialising in this area. Some studios will focus on developing apps just for Apple operating systems, others Android only, and some will develop across systems.
Source: Institute of Scientific & Technical Communicators (2012)
App development isn’t limited to just the apps you get through your smartphone or tablet, it also applies to web development and the translating of full websites you access on your PC or laptop to a user friendly version that’s compatible with your mobile and will often have the feel of an app rather than a website.
Designer Designer l Information Developer l Publication Manager l Technical Author l Technical Illustrator l Technical Writer l Translator l Graphic
For more information about scientific and technical communication visit the Institute of Scientific & Technical Communicators at www.istc.org.uk where you can find lots of interesting information about the profession and technical communicator careers. To see some interesting examples of technical communication via animation, check out local company Kuro Dragon’s website www.kurodragon. com and have look at their four technical visualisation
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Games and app design is popular in Newcastle and the surrounding areas with a large number of design agencies, app developers and games companies – some are small with one or two people, others are larger employing 20 to 30 people.
Examples of some local companies include: Gospelware www.gospelware.co.uk Indigo Multimedia www.indigomultimedia.com Komodo Digital www.komododigtal.co.uk IT, TELECOMMUNICATIONS & SOFTWARE In some organisations the IT department is under the control and management of the Finance department. This is usually most common in local authorities and public sector organisations. The North East IT community has lots of start-up businesses and spin-out companies from local colleges and universities, many of which are run by young people with quick-win innovative ideas and solutions. Generally, IT companies in the North East are looking for graduates, ideally with a minimum 2:1 in their chosen degree, plus good business and industry knowledge. IT companies like to see enthusiastic candidates who have spent some time doing work experience or placements and/or working part-time in a local industry related company. This doesn’t necessarily mean a job programming, but could be supporting the post room; either way you will be gaining valuable industry and business insight. Local companies that encourage applications from graduates to IT consultancy-based roles include: Scott Logic www.scottlogic.co.uk Waterstons www.waterstons.com Other IT & Telecommunications companies in the area: Orchid Software www.orchidsoft.com Sage (UK) Ltd www.sage.co.uk For those of you who enjoy surfing the web and keeping up to date with your social media, superfast broadband is being introduced across the UK and in February 2012, more than seven million homes and businesses had access. In the North East this was over 500,000 meaning you’ll be able to access your latest status updates quicker and easier than ever! For those interested in engineering, design and planning, the introduction of superfast broadband brings lots of opportunities for people with these skills to be involved in setting up the network system. In the future, you could be improving or upgrading the underground and over-ground infrastructure of superfast broadband, which will come to be known as the superfast network. To give you an idea of what you might earn in IT & Telecommunications professions, we’ve listed below
some examples of roles and their weekly wages: l Average earnings of all IT & Telecommunications
professionals = £790 per week comparison to all other jobs, this is £180 per week higher than the rest of the workforce who earn an average of £610 per week. l The highest paid IT & T jobs are for Managers who earn an average of £1,000 per week l The lowest paid IT & T jobs are Database Assistants who on average earn £410 per week l User Support Technicians earn an average of £540 per week l IT Engineers and Telecomms Engineers earn on average £570 per week l Operations Technicians earn an average of £600 per week l Line repairers / cable jointer earn on average £710 per week l Software Professionals earn an average of £750 per week l IT Strategy & Planning people earn on average £900 per week l In
GAMES DEVELOPMENT The games industry in the North East is thriving, with a number of major studios and developers established in the area including: Atom Hawk Design www.atomhawk.com CCP Newcastle www.ccpgames.com Double Eleven www.double11.co.uk Eutechnyx www.eutechnyx.com Pitbull Studio www.pitbullstudio.co.uk Reflections (an Ubisoft Studio) www.ubisoftgroup.com www.facebook.com/Ubisoft.Reflections There are a number of ways to get in to the games industry, however to improve your chances of making it in to a studio, you should consider completing a course at College or University. In a studio such as Reflections or Eutechnyx you could be in a games designer role, a testing/quality role, a programming role, an artist position or a producer role. Don’t forget that these technical and specialist roles require support from business development teams, marketing and communications people, studio managers, administration and finance staff. Depending upon the area of the games industry you want to work in, you could study: (fine art, art, creative design etc.) programming l Computer science l Games design l Maths l Physics l Art-related l Computer
The games industry has a shortage of people in the following areas: Artists There are lots of different artist roles ranging from Concept Artists to Shading Artists. Innovative Programmers Programmer roles are some of the hardest to recruit to for the games industry. Many people who apply for programmer jobs will have an ICT qualification, but this is not enough to be a programmer – your maths is really important as too is physics so that you can understand limitations and environments and apply these to the gaming world. Server Programmers The need for server programmers is constantly growing as the popularity of online gaming continues to increase. At the moment, Server Programmer roles are some of the hardest to fill due to the lack of people being qualified to do the job. Web Developers It is popular for Web Developers to be freelance working on a variety of projects for different studios and design agencies. There are lots of programming languages in existence that enable a person to build and create apps, games, software and virtual environments. The most in demand languages for the games industry at the moment are: l C++ l
Cherrypie
l HTML l Python
So what can you expect to earn by working in the games industry? Because there are lots and lots of different jobs in the industry ranging from technical roles to office support roles, we’ve only highlighted the programming jobs here just to give you a flavour. If you look at websites such as Games Industry Online (www.gamesindustry.biz) you will get a good idea of the salary you could be earning. web programmers in the games industry can expect a starting salary of around £16,000 to £18,000.
l Graduate
you have gained experience you will be ready to move in to an Experienced Programmer role with a salary of around £25,000 to £30,000.
l Once
next step on from an experienced programmer is in to a Lead Programmer role. Once you reach this level the salary can be £35,000+.
l The
Your career path does not have to stop at Lead Programmer, as you could progress in to a Director role or even set up and run your own company!
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And just so you know, in the games industry, a job that is advertised as an experienced role means that you need to have at least two years experience and must have worked on a minimum of two titles (aka games).
Roles, Skills and Knowledge for Digital, IT & Creative industries The skills and knowledge required for a successful career in the Digital, IT & Creative industries are varied, ranging from technical roles through to business management through to support positions. To give you an idea of some of the types of Digital, IT & Creative jobs that are currently out there, we’ve listed some common job titles below. To find out more about specific job titles or just to get a feel for the different opportunities which exist, we’ve added a number of links to webpages and websites at the end of the following list that will give you lots and lots of interesting information! Digital Artist - also known as Modellers Engagement Director l Entry level facial and character animator l Game Analyst l Graphics Technology Programmer l Programmers - specialist areas include: l C++ Applied Physics Programmers, Lead Programmers, Programmers plus many others l Senior Web Developer l 3D
l Community
Games Industry specific Intelligence Programmer Programmer l Community Manager l Environmental Artist l Gameplay Programmer l Graphics-Rendering Programmer l Level Designer l Localisation Manager l Physics Programmer l Quality Control Technician l Technical Artist l Unity 3D Programmer l Visual Effects Programmer l Web and Content Editor l Artificial l Audio
Creative Designer Simulation FX Artist l Compositor l Designers (for which there are many different specialist areas) l Digital Painter l Flash Animatic Artist l Graphic Designer l Information Architect l Modeller l Render Wrangler l Search Engine Optimisation Specialist l Background l Cloth
l Studio
Manager Specialist
l Usability
IT & Telecommunications Programmer Administrator l Hardware Service Engineer l Network Controller l PC Support Analyst l Software Test Engineer l Systems Architect Planner l Webmaster l Analyst
l Database
E-skills (the Sector Skills Council for IT & Telecommunications) has identified the core IT & Telecommunications roles in the UK at present: Information and Community Technology Managers Job titles that fall within this category include: l Computer Manager l Computer Operations Manager l Data Processing Manager l IT Manager l Systems Manager l Telecoms Manager IT Strategy and Planning Professionals Job titles that fall within this category include: l Computer Consultant l Software Consultant Software Professionals Job titles that fall within this category include: l Analyst Programmer l Computer Programmer l Software Engineer l Systems Analyst l Systems Designer l Games Developer l Web Designer/Developer IT Operations Technicians Job titles that fall within this category include: l Database Manager l IT Technician l Network Technician l Systems Administrator l Web Master IT User Support Technicians Job titles that fall within this category include: l Help desk Operator l Helpline Operator (Computing) l IT Helpline Support Officer l Support Technician (Computing) l Systems Support Officer Database Assistants and Clerks Job titles that fall within this category include: l Computer Clerk l Data entry Clerk l Data Processor l VDU Operator
Telecommunications Engineers Job titles that fall within this category include: l Technical Officer (telecommunications) l Telecommunications Engineer l Telephone Engineer l Telephone Installation Engineer l Telephone Technician Line Repairers and Cable Jointers Job titles that fall within this category include: l Cable Jointer l Telegraph Linesman l Telephone Linesman l Telephone Wireman Computer Engineers, Installation and Maintenance Job titles that fall within this category include: l Computer Engineer l Computer Maintenance Engineer l Computer Service Engineer l Computer Service Technician If you start working in an IT & Telecommunications, Design or Games Industry role, you may be asked to work with any number of programming languages. In July 2012, the ten most used languages in the UK were: 1. SQL 2. C 3. C# 4. .NET 5. Java 6. SQL Server 7. ASP 8. JavaScript 9. HTML 10. Agile Source: www.jobsadwatch.co.uk/jobstats/trends/topskills (July 2012)
At the same time, the top 20 popular programming languages globally were: 1. C 2. Java 3. C++ 4. Objective-C 5. C# 6. (Visual) Basic 7. PHP 8. Python 9. Perl 10. Ruby 11. JavaScript 12. Visual Basic .NET 13. Delphi/Object Pascal 14. Lisp 15. Logo 16. Pascal 17. Transact-SQL 18. Ada 19. PL/SQL 20. Lua
Source: www.tiobe.com (July 2012)
If you are interested in programming and languages, keep checking this website for monthly performance tables for languages – it will keep you up to speed with developments and will help you stay ahead with your programming skills! An area of Digital and IT industries that is rapidly emerging is in Information Security often referred to as Cyber Security or Security and Data Protection. There is already a huge need for specialists who can work in these sectors and it will continue to grow in the next 5-10years. Information/Cyber Security is more than just being legally allowed to hack in to systems, you need to have technical skills and knowledge and have good people skills so that you can gain information and figure out what makes companies and individuals do what they do. Information/Cyber Security provides a very challenging and exciting career. The 20 most popular jobs in Information/Cyber Security today are: 1. Information Security Crime Investigator / Forensics Expert 2. System, Network and/or Web Penetration Tester 3. Forensic Analyst 4. Incident Researcher 5. Security Architect 6. Malware Analyst 7. Network Security Engineer 8. Security Analyst 9. Computer Crime Investigator 10. CISO / ISO or Director of Security 11. Application Penetration Tester 12. Security Operations Centre Analyst 13. Legal specialist in Information Security Crime 14. Technical Director and Deputy CISO 15. Intrusion Analyst 16. Vulnerability Researcher /Exploit Developer 17. Security Auditor 18. Security Savvy Software Developer 19. Security Maven in an Application Developer Organisation 20. Disaster Recovery / Business Continuity Analyst / Manager Source: The SANS Institute (2012)
And not to forget about our superfast broadband, the skills and experience required to establish an infrastructure that can support the new technologies include: l Laying fibre systems (including street work engineering, duct systems, underground cable work) l Application of alternative technologies such as WiFi,
copper upgrades, G4/G5 (mobile), satellite, wireless l Installation, testing, upgrading and maintenance of
exchanges (telephone), cabinets and fibre systems l
Site preparation (including understanding planning processes, reading historic engineering records to plan routes)
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l Manual re-termination of existing telephone lines
(overhead line engineers) l Highly skilled electricians and electrical engineers to connect to the national grid including installation of new electrical connections where existing connections are not suitable/do not exist. Make sure you take a look at the following webpages to find out lots more information about job roles in the Digital, IT and Creative industries: Digital Creative Skillset http://www.creativeskillset.org/games/careers/ article_2768_1.asp http://www.creativeskillset.org/games/careers/ profiles/ Edge Online Magazine http://www.edge-online.com/news/get-games2012 Games Industry International http://www.gamesindustry.biz/jobs Creative Creative Skillset http://www.creativeskillset.org/animation/ careers/profiles/ http://www.creativeskillset.org/interactive/ careers/profiles/ Creative Choices http://www.creative-choices.co.uk/ IT & Telecommunications Big Ambition http://www.bigambition.co.uk/ National Skills Academy for IT https://www.itskillsacademy.ac.uk/ Telecoms JobSource http://www.telecomsjobsource.co.uk/ Cyber Security https://cybersecuritychallenge.org.uk/careergetting-started.php
David Dunn - Chief Executing Officer, Sunderland Software City
DIGITAL, IT & CREATIVE Software is everywhere – and that means a world of opportunity What’s the first thing that comes into your head when you think about a career in software? That you’ve got to be huge computer geek? That you spend your life cooped up in a basement staring at a screen? That it’s incredibly dull? The reality is very different. Software is everywhere and there is not a single industry on Earth which doesn’t use it in some form. That means whatever you’re into - music, fashion, computer games, films, sport, anything – you can work there through an interest in software. The region is particularly successful when it comes to developing software. There are 350 companies operating in the North East of England - and that means opportunities, jobs and even the chance to set up your own business.
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What is software and what can it do? Software is the instructions which tell things like computers, and mobile phones what to do. North East companies are developing software which does all sorts of amazing things, including: l Creating the special effects on some of Hollywood’s biggest films and some of the world’s most popular games and apps l Sending out more than 1,500,000,000,000 emails every year l Making call centres less annoying by making computerised agents act like real people l Helping design sporting stadiums like Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium l Helping contestants Ask the Audience on ‘Who wants to be a millionaire?’ What jobs are available? Software developers write instructions for computers and mobile phones but software companies also need people in areas including: l l l l
Sales Administration Marketing Design
Is there a career for me in software? Absolutely. What is really important in software is stuff you can’t teach – like having good ideas, being able to solve problems and being good at working in a team. Sunderland Software City is working to build the local software industry and to make our region the place for the global software industry to do business.
What is it like to work in software? The enterpreneur‘s story A young entrepreneur is seeing his business take root after sealing a deal to turn his educational tool into a mobile application. Andy Stephenson has already seen Apple approve his Raise a Tree software for download on iPhone and iPad. Raise a Tree helps young people learn about the environment by giving them a digital tree to nurture and grow like virtual pet. His app has been downloaded almost 50,000 times in over 50 different countries. Sunderland Software City helped him to turn his idea into a fully-fledged business, providing him with technical advice, industry contacts and sales leads, as well as helping him set up a pilot scheme that has seen a number of North East schools sign up to use the educational version of Raise a Tree to teach students about the environment. Andy, in his mid-twenties and originally from Essex, said: “I developed the idea of Raise a Tree before I moved to the North East. However, since coming to the region, it has really started to take off as a business, largely thanks to the fantastic support services available here. “Sunderland Software City, have helped me with everything from public relations to introducing me to possible customers and with their support I’m growing raise A Tree into a really profitable and successful business. Things would have been so much more difficult without that help.” For more information, you can visit www.raiseatree.co.uk What qualifications do I need?
It helps new software companies to start and existing companies to grow and makes sure that the North East software sector has everything it needs to compete internationally, including the £10m software centre being planned for Sunderland.
There isn’t one set way into the industry. You can choose whichever path suits you best.
If you think software might be the career for you, Sunderland Software City can help with:
l 14-16 Diplomas in IT: The new diploma in IT is a qualification designed with software companies to help you develop the right knowledge and skills for both higher ducation and work. Other qualifications you could take are BTECs or GCSEs in subjects like IT or Business and Engineering
l l l l l
Higher education programmes at local universities, designed especially to meet the needs of the software industry – supported with bursaries and scholarships Professional skills training The Sunderland Software Hatchery, offering space and support to develop your own software businesses Placement schemes with local firms helping you get experience in the industry Fun events in your schools, showing you what a great place to work software is.
l Apprenticeships: Some software companies take on apprentices at 16. They are a great option for anyone who likes to learn by doing
l Degrees (undergraduate and postgraduate) You could also study a software-related subject like information Technology, Software Development, Software Engineering or Business Information Systems at as University, either as a first or post-graduate degree, and Sunderland Software City can help with financial support if you need it. You can find out more at www.sunderlandsoftwarecity.com, by dropping a line to info@sunderlandsoftwarecity.com, or on Facebook, YouTube and Twitter @sunsoftcity.
DIGITAL, IT & CREATIVE Eutechnyx takes pride in its Level Up Scheme Eutechnyx is the world’s leading independent racing game developer. With a history spanning over 24 years, the studio has won numerous awards for its million-plus selling titles and garnered exceptional acclaim in the business sector. As well as its headquarters in Gateshead (UK), the company has studios in Hong Kong, Chengdu (China) and Charlotte (USA) and a publishing office in London (UK). Eutechnyx has received a number of awards for its commercial operations, including an Outstanding Business Practices award from IIP and an inclusion in the Sunday Times Tech Track 100 companies. Eutechnyx’ games have also received a number of individual awards, including a BAFTA nomination. Recently developed games include NASCAR the Game, featuring a roster of 43 cars from the various NASCAR series as well as the full schedule of all the 23 tracks that the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series visits throughout the season. NASCAR the Game also features a cutting edge damage model as well as accurately recreated cars and tracks which were developed with support from NASCAR and the teams. 2012 heralds a move into publishing for Eutechnyx with the release of Auto Club Revolution, a free-to-play online racing game and car community built in collaboration with the motor industry. Featuring officially licensed cars from over 50 of the world’s leading motor manufacturers, it delivers a console quality racing experience to the free-to-play market while providing a social platform for owning, customising and enjoying cars online. The game’s front end is web-based, creating a powerful and flexible social platform for communities of car enthusiasts and racing fans to interact with each other and their favourite motoring brands. The racing experience itself is delivered via a downloaded application (client), built on the world class Eutechnyx-owned racing engine. This combination of web and app. empowers the player to manage their game, garage and network of friends on the web from anywhere, while the downloadable element provides the premium quality race experience that separates Auto Club Revolution from all other games in the sector.
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Eutechnyx takes pride in its award winning Level Up Scheme, offering Placement and Graduate opportunities to the brightest and best upcoming talent. The scheme offers the unique opportunity to gain experience working in a studio environment on real games, using the latest games development technology. Many of those staff who started on the Level Up Scheme as placement students have gone on to manage successful game teams and run multi-million pound projects at Eutechnyx. “My aspirations to work in the games industry grew from an early age and I always knew throughout my younger education that it was where I wanted to go. When it came to seeking higher education I chose to move to the North East to study for a BA (Hons) Computer Games Design degree at Teesside University. After my second year of study I was lucky enough to secure a placement at Eutechnyx in a Junior Designer role. It was a great step for me, Eutechnyx really helped me develop my skills and didn’t hold back when it came to offering me responsibilities and creative input. Since then I’ve returned to Eutechnyx after finishing university, worked on various globally recognised AAA games and now manage a small design team.” Matt Clarke - Lead Designer
DIGITAL, IT & CREATIVE every1speaks every1speaks represents an innovative new way of supporting learning and is the first product from new company Every1 Limited. every1speaks is the Brainchild of Peter Hirst and Jeremiah Alexander who saw a lack of digital solutions for supporting inclusion and student voice within education. In order to address this need they set up Every1 Limited combining Peter’s expertise in pupil engagement and education with Jeremiah’s expertise of digital media and games design. Every1 Limited will use gaming methodology in a visually stimulating way to solve challenges within education. every1speaks sets out to create an easy way for school communities to share ideas and opinions more openly and freely. It can be used for a short survey of the student population but its real value exists when used as an integral part of daily school life. It aims to complement student councils by ensuring that every1 is heard and opinions are representative. every1speaks is an evolving product and that is why it has been
designed as an online solution. As schools explore student voice more deeply and conversations evolve so too will the platform. It will be updated and changed based upon the voice of its users; in the same way that we hope it will help schools change based upon the voices of their pupils.
Peter Hirst
Jeremiah Alexander
Peter is Director of ANYTHING But Limited who are educational consultants operating two brands; GiantMinds and Kidology. He has been working closely with schools through these brands for 5 years and boasts excellent facilitation skills in addition to a close understanding of the education sector.
A digital entrepreneur striving to make learning playful. He is the founder of Ideonic, a digital agency that focuses on creating educational content using gaming and immersive online media. He has a keen interest in the application of new technologies for learning and is recognised for his creativity, entrepreneurialism and ideas, including being a finalist in the UK young interactive entrepreneur of the year 2009.
DIGITAL, IT & CREATIVE Sharpe Recruitment www.sharperecruitment.co.uk Laura Sharpe is the Managing Director of Sharpe Recruitment based in the heart of Newcastle which specialises in recruitment for IT and Digital industry related roles. Laura started as a student at Northumbria University where she attained a BA (Hons) in Business Administration. Since her time at Northumbria University, Laura has developed a very successful career and advanced skill set over more than ten years in sales, account management, business development and recruitment.
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Sharing her industry insight, extensive knowledge and experience, Laura has some words of encouragement and advice those of you who are interested in taking the first steps to building a long and successful career in the Digital, IT and Creative industries: As Gavin and Stacey’s Nessa famously says “I’m not going to lie to you”… it’s tough out there! But it’s not all doom and gloom, with the right contacts and the right approach there are plenty of ways to maximise your career potential. The keyword here is maximise, you need to make the most of every single opportunity that comes your way. Having been asked to write about my experiences of the current job market I think it’s only fair I give away some inside knowledge about how the recruitment has been changing, especially within the Digital sector. Many jobs are no longer being advertised via traditional methods such as the newspaper, or even publicly - they’re being filled through trusted sources and social media. This shift in the recruitment approach could be due to uncertainty about changes which may occur during the recruitment process itself, and also the need for employers to reduce costs. So now, more than ever, you need to be prepared to put yourself ‘out there’ - network, pick up the phone and use social media to explore the opportunities, and, when you’re ready to, to take that leap in to your first job. Only just a couple of years ago, looking at online job boards and posting your CV online was seen as innovative and set to replace the traditional paper methods of recruiting. This was the case for a while, but this just isn’t enough when the competition is rife and it’s now harder than ever to find out who is actually recruiting. If you read the Science & Technology section of The Journal you’ll see a constant stream of success stories from companies across the region. Whether you have a relevant background or you’re looking to get started in the Digital sector, get some advice on your CV and then write to the people you’re reading about in the local press and social media. Flatter them, don’t be cheesy about it, just be polite and professional. You can also do this face to face by networking. Take advantage
of careers days at your school or college and go talk to the employers who are there, they certainly won’t bite and are there because they want to help you. If you can, research who’s going to be attending so you have something to talk to them about and don’t be afraid to ask questions no matter how trivial you think they may be! The Digital/Technology Industry in the North East is huge and is continually growing, it has a strong sense of community, so I advise you get involved in it if you’re not already. You’ll not only get support, advice and guidance, you’ll also be the first to know what’s changing and when, therefore staying one step ahead of the game when thinking about your study and career options. So, if you get out there, talk to people and make yourself known it will undoubtedly help you progress your career. To end on another favourite Nessa quote: “Truth be told” I couldn’t have set up and run my business over the past two years without the support the Digital Industry in the North East has given me, I’m extremely grateful!
Contribution from Adrian Hewett, Principle Consultant at GEM IT
DIGITAL, IT & CREATIVE GEM I.T. www.gempartnership.com Adrian Hewett is a Principle Consultant for GEM IT in Newcastle which specialises in IT recruitment. Over the following pages, Adrian provides us with an insight to the IT and Digital industries, giving us a glimpse of the wealth of experience and knowledge he has acquired over the years. We hope that it further encourages those of you who want to pursue a career in Digital, IT and Creative industries and sparks new interest in those who may have thought it wasn’t for them! The IT Marketplace in the North East With the ever changing IT landscape requiring new investment from business to keep pace in their markets, organisations are focusing their efforts heavily in technology. The increase of technology-related projects drives the need for more effective, sustainable and reliable IT functions which, in turn, places a heavy reliance on having the right people who can add real value to business productivity. IT can be a very complicated beast to most - all of the acronyms and abbreviations make it all the more confusing! In essence, IT is a support arm for a business. The easiest way to think of IT is to divide it in to three areas: 1. Development 2. Infrastructure 3. Business The North East is split up in to a number of distinct business areas within the IT landscape. To give you a
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brief insight in to this I’ve outlined the main growth areas where IT professionals are and will be needed. It’s important to remember that technology drives almost everything we see, hear and do, and isn’t just limited to the fun and entertaining things we do! Technology is key to industry, from contact centre environments, to large scale heavy manufacturing, all needing systems and software to drive productivity and keep companies ahead of their competition. Digital and Design This is a booming area and the North East is producing a strong name for itself as a centre of Digital Excellence, with the assistance of organisations such as Sunderland Software City, Digital City and Design Network North. There is an influx of start up digital agencies scattered across the North East, these organisations are always looking for strong individuals to train up. Examples of local companies who are always on the lookout for developers and designers include: Calm Digital www.calmdigital.com Komodo www.komododigital.co.uk Orange Bus www.orangebus.co.uk Shout Digital www.shoutdigital.com Th_nk www.think.eu
Visualsoft www.visualsoft.co.uk Prospective employees should have knowledge and/ or skills in Microsoft and/or Open Source development. A programming language associated with Microsoft development is .Net e.g. C#, VisualBasic.Net, Asp.Net Open Source development refers to languages such as PHP, LAMP, CMS blog development (e.g. Drupal, Wordpress, Joomla). Engineering – Oil and Gas With regards to IT there is an influx of organisations that specialise in the development of software to assist oil and gas extraction, production and storage. Areas in which IT is important include: design, manufacture and operation of advanced equipment such as robotic operated vehicles (ROVs) and within research and development activities. Local companies that operate in the oil and gas supply chain, such as consultancies and software companies who require Software Developers, Testers and Business Analysts include: FFA www.ffa-geosciences.com Hydratight www.hydratight.com Ikon Science Group www.ikon-geopressure.com Narec www.narec.co.uk Senergy www.senergyworld.com Soil Machine Dynamics www.smd.co.uk Manufacturing, Production & Engineering These industries need to keep up to date with advancing technologies so that productivity and efficiency can continually be driven forward. To enable companies to increase productivity and improve efficiency there is the need to have either an internal IT department or to use the services of external IT consultancies and software providers, who will design and develop bespoke systems and software. Either in an end-user environment or as part of the supply chain, there is always a need for IT professionals to work in manufacturing, production and engineering. End-user manufacturing, production and engineering companies include: Akzo Nobel www.akzonobel.com/uk Del la Rue www.delarue.com Formica www.formica.co.uk Nissan www.careersatnissan.co.uk ThyssenKrupp Talent Automotive www.tallent.thyssenkrupp.com Examples of consultancies and software companies in the North East include: Kromek www.kromek.com One Point Systems www.onepointsystems.com Perfect Image www.perfect-image.co.uk
Solarsoft www.solarsoft.com VSC Solutions www.vscsolutions.co.uk Infrastructure and Network A large number of companies exist in the North East: some provide IT support to companies and others work in partnership with organisation to manage complex infrastructure projects to implement new technologies. Such companies are major employers within the North East; some are niche in that they support a specific industry area, whist some are more generalist acting as a one-stop-shop for IT support and Network Implementation. Aegis IT www.aegisit.co.uk ITPS (IT Professional Services Ltd) www.it-ps.com Knowledge IT www.knowledgeit.co.uk Onyx Group (Internet) www.onyx.net TSG (Technology Services Group) www.tsg.com Financial Services, Insurance & Contact Centres Financial Services (including Insurance) and Contact Centres generally, are a major area of growth for the North East. The companies in these industries tend to command large sites and have with them large in-house IT departments. These organisations are highly reliant upon technology to drive business in addition to the need for storing and accessing large amounts of data and information for their customers. The following companies all have offices around the North East: Barclays www.group.barclays.com/about-barclays/careers Everything Everywhere www.everythingeverywhere.com Insure the Box www.insurethebox.com More Than www.morethan.com Swift Cover www.swiftcover.com Tesco Bank www.careers.tescobank.com Virgin Money www.uk.virginmoney.com/virgin/jobs
DIGITAL, IT & CREATIVE Reflections – An Ubisoft Studio As a video games studio established in 1984, Reflections is a fine example of a North East developer going from strength to strength and working on innovative, fun, world-class titles like Just Dance and Driver San Francisco. With product development based in Newcastle, as part of a worldwide network of 28 development studios in the world’s 3rd biggest publisher, Ubisoft, Reflections titles are critically acclaimed and loved by gamers. At Reflections, we pride ourselves on our technological expertise and knowledge – making games in a highly competitive industry requires us to hire the best and constantly evolve to meet new challenges. Our Talent Our staff come from all sorts of backgrounds, and from all over the world. We pride ourselves on employing excellent developers. Take Matthew Oakley – when Matt graduated from Teesside University, he had worked at Bizarre Creations on a placement, and in his final year, went on to win an ExpoTees award for his student work, which landed him a placement and a job offer at Reflections. We work closely with local educational establishments to ensure we get the best local talent, as well as recruiting nationally and internationally to ensure that our staff are able to produce high quality games. Our Studio Working at Reflections is a relaxed, comfortable environment, encouraging our staff to imagine, create and inspire others. We work hard but we also know that our staff are gamers, sportsmen, volunteers, comic book fans, dancers, singers, car 100-101 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
lovers and many other things. We support this with initiatives like subsidised Gym membership, development jam projects and volunteering opportunities within the local community. If you need more proof, take a look at something we put together for International Dance Day 2012: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8xncFqAcAts Careers Reflections is a fast growing company, with over 150 staff working hard on multiple projects. We are also part of a global publisher and our staff have in the past travelled to countries like the United States, Canada, France, Romania, India, China, Japan and Spain. For our programming roles, a good grounding in Mathematics and Programming is required. For our artistic roles, knowledge of Photoshop, 3DS Max and Maya is beneficial. For design roles, a high level of English, and technical knowledge of how games are designed is essential. But these three disciplines alone don’t cover the wide range of roles we recruit for, so take a look at our jobs page for more details! Jobs LinkedIn Facebook Twitter
www.jobs.ubisoft.com Companies/reflections ubisoft.reflections @ubireflections
DIGITAL, IT & CREATIVE Wonder Stuff Studio Wonder Stuff Studio is a Newcastle based design studio. We deliver design that makes a difference to your business. From defining and developing brands to ensuring they’re communicated consistently. Working with clients across the UK and internationally across a range of disciplines and sectors, we love what we do and what it does for our clients. The experience of the staff at Wonder Stuff Studio has given the company a wealth of knowledge about most of visual communications, and they are always very eager to learn more! WonderStuffStudio is dedicated to delivering creative ideas for design, advertising and marketing that focus on a clear return on investment for small and large businesses alike. The industry experience of Wonder Stuff Studio ranges from fastmoving consumer goods (often referred to asFMCG), financial, public and private sector. Wonder Stuff Studio’s experience ranges from small independent businesses right through to international clients and global brands. Some of the work Wonder Stuff Studio has done has been the rebranding of regional events, using targeted promotions to increase the number of customers visiting local restaurants and generating customer bookings using good e-marketing. All of the work done by Wonder Stuff Studio is delivered by ideas-led, creative design.
Some of the services Wonder Stuff Studio provides include: l Consultancy services l Developing brands through clear ideas-led design l Creating advertising from large national TV adverts through to small bespoke direct mail l Digital design to generate sales, promote companies and publicise products and services via social media, websites, e-marketing and many other mediums. Wonder Stuff Studio work with clients to make sure that the approach they are taking is the best one for them and their market.
WonderStuffStudio www.wonderstuffstudio.co.uk Twitter: @wss_design
Chemist - Ryan Morris http://goo.gl/tQ2bT Commodities Research - Amirita Sen http://goo.gl/jKCAo Director Quantitative Analyst - Claudia Yastremiz http://goo.gl/LKdUI
Graduate Engineer - Dee Nunn http://goo.gl/EjxIU Group Technology - John Baker http://goo.gl/fDrmk Head of Research - Charles Skinner http://goo.gl/Iahha Physicist - Chris Holland http://goo.gl/TIAmE
21st Century Careers in the North East Process Industry Opportunities www.youtu.be/_PZmrlY3QDY Life Sciences Opportunities www.youtu.be/dOnZ4lwTVWQ 102-103 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
Process Video’s courtesy of www.careerplayer.com
Manager Environmental Research Louis Brimacombe http://goo.gl/TfzVp Research Analyst Telecommunications Stuart Jeffery http://goo.gl/qIJe4
Come back soon for lots of new information about the Process Industry
PROCESS How a love of science inspired a scientific career There are a number of vocational qualifications and apprenticeships available within the industries. To find out more, visit: www.cogent-ssc.com 104-105 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
Name: Emily Humphrys Job title: Commercial Director Company: Cambridge Research Bio-medicals “We are a laboratory-scale manufacturer of biochemicals for medical research, principally peptides and anti-bodies. The peptides is chemically made is a chain of amino acids it’s a fragment of a protein. We can make them chemically rather than a protein which is made by fermentation, a bit like beer or bread. We make peptides chemically in a laboratory there made on a machine and then they are purified. We make them in milligram amounts and they look like grains of sugar. We provide them for University researchers mainly biologists who are studying disease at the molecular level, any disease like cancer, Alzheimer’s, heart disease and any other disease you can think of.” “We also sell to pharmaceutical companies and to drug manufacturers but we are right at the beginning, we are selling to the researchers the people that are doing the discovery not the making of the drugs but the discovery.” “Well from about the age of 11 I realised that I wanted to be a doctor. I wanted to study medicine and I knew for that I needed to study Science. I also loved Maths and Chemistry so it was an obvious route to study those at O-Level as well as the normal subjects.” “Manchester really inspired me. The people that I saw in the laboratories were fun normal people punk rockers even, and I thought I could do this, this is going to be exciting. But as it came to it at the end of the degree I decided that I really couldn’t face anymore
studying and I really needed to do something with my life. I moved back to the North East with my Mother and just went down the Yellow Pages and found one advert for a tiny advert for a chemical agency and got a job the next week as a chemist at ICI Billingham.” “But this business I worked in and learnt my sales skills in, in the early days I knew that business was not being treated fairly let’s say by the parent company and I thought what have I always wanted in my life, I’ve always wanted to run my own business. And we went through the management process and negotiation which took a year and it became ours February 1st 2000.” “The role I play now as Director is a commercial one, I look after any legal aspects of the business, I negotiate anything from customer contracts, to the lease agreement on the building. I have now moved from sales to business development, which is really looking at the future, at the strategy for growth, looking at the profitability, looking at where what other products we could make if not what other products could we sell. My other partner director Alison white, she looks after the whole of the production side, safety quality and the management of most of the people.” “I would say study science subjects because they give endless opportunities. Everything that is made in the world needs jobs associated with Science as well as all of the administrative roles and the human resources and the commercial aspects of a technical business. Also is what I’ve seen with Science is that it allows you to travel the world, that’s one of the biggest benefits that you get from being a Scientist.”
PROCESS About Sembcorp UK Sembcorp UK is owned by Sembcorp Industries Limited, which provides utilities, energy and water to industrial and other customers in Singapore, the UK, Asia and the Middle East. The company is a supplier of essential utilities such as steam and power to major international companies at Wilton International - one of the UK’s largest and most important manufacturing sites based in the north east of England. Sembcorp’s Utilities business operates two power stations (including a Biomass Power Station) producing 228 megawatts of power and up to 550 tonnes an hour of steam on the Wilton International site. The adjacent water treatment facility is the largest in the UK, supplying up to 2000 cubic metres of demineralised water an hour. To find out more about the opportunities available take a look at www.sembcareers.co.uk 106-107 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
How science led to a global career Name: Jane Atkinson Job title: Vice President Utilities Operations Company: Sembcorp Utilities UK Jane Atkinson is Vice President Utilities Operations of Sembcorp UK Limited, responsible for the day-to-day operations and maintenance of the Utilities business on Wilton International, including the UK’s first Biomass Power Plant. In 2007, Jane won the CBI First Woman Award in Manufacturing. Following on from this prestigious award, she was voted one of the 500 most influential people in the North East by The Journal newspaper. Jane holds a Batchelor degree in Chemical Engineering and a Masters in Business Administration from Loughborough and Warwick Universities respectively. Jane is a Fellow of the Institution of Chemical Engineers as well as a Fellow of The Royal Academy of Engineering. She is also a chartered and designated European Engineer. “I achieved 10 GCSEs , three A Levels in Maths, Physics and Chemistry and did an S level in Higher Chemistry. After my first year at 6th form, I decided I wanted to do Chemical Engineering because this is what my A levels led to and I also enjoyed Chemistry. I wrote to many companies in Teesside for sponsorship and British Steel were the first to offer me it. So every term whilst I was at University, they gave me some money to spend on books and beers and every summer I went to work for them. “When I graduated as a Chemical Engineer I went to work for British Steel, now Corus on Teesside. I spent a few years making liquid iron, where I was one of six women out of, 4,500 men. My job, like most engineers, was problem-solving; to figure out what was going wrong and fix it. “They let me lose on the casthouse at the age of 23. The casthouse is where all the iron and slag comes out of the blast furnace. My job was to remove the 9,200 te of iron and 3,000 te of slag a day from the furnace to a railway car at temperatures of about 1700˚C. Several guys wouldn’t speak to me as they did not believe I should be there I soon began to understand ‘it is their problem, not mine’ and just got on with my job. I was, apparently, the first woman in the world to do this role, so maybe I should have expected this.” The chance to travel “I spent three years on Teesside doing this then I then moved to Alabama, USA, with Corus, to help start up a factory with a group of people from all parts of the World – Egyptians, Indians, British and American. My job there was to start up an iron-making plant that had been built in Scotland 20 years before, broken into 27,000 pieces and rebuilt in Alabama with a workforce who had no experience in Operations. On that facility, I was in charge of safety and operations. Every day when you went to the office, you had to check your chair and
desk as often rattlesnakes would be found curled up the legs. “On top of this, an alligator lived on the site, so daily you had to be aware where he was lurking and always carry a radio with you in case of trouble. Not only was the wildlife scary in Alabama, the weather was, too! I witnessed hurricanes and tornadoes and actually wrote the evacuation plans for them. “I then moved to Northern Alabama, a place called Tuscaloosa, managing the customer complaints, and process development and shipping department, eventually managing the steel casting department. Eventually, I came home back to Corus at Teesside where not only was I boss of 250 men, I was the only female and the youngest, too. “I left Corus in 2004 and my current job is with Sembcorp running the operations and maintenance of a power station including the UK’s First Green Biomass Power Station, purely run on wood. I have been lucky, my career has been exciting and varied this has allowed me to make a success of my business’ and ultimately my own success.” How to be successful “To be successful in business requires many things…. a good education is the foundation of this success. I cannot stress the importance of this. If you get good GCSEs it demonstrates to employers that you are not only intelligent but capable of learning, working on your own, meeting deadlines and that you can work under pressure. All important skills that a businesses need in their employees. “It is important to start thinking about your career now. You need to ensure your choice is broad enough to allow you to diversify if you need to but not too broad that your education doesn’t easily fit into a career path. Engineering is extremely varied you can be a designer, operator, repairer, builder or troubleshooter, like myself. Many engineers today are employed at the Olympic Stadium, building green sustainable projects such as renewable, wind, solar and geo power. Many are working in biosciences, pharamaceuticals, breweries and food manufacturing as well as in the armed forces. You can go into accounting, general management or even teaching. Twenty per cent of CEOs in America have an engineering degree, so you can head up businesses also.” The rewards “Pay is good, too. Five engineering subjects feature in the top ten of graduate starting salaries. Dentistry is top at a starting salary of £29,805…chemical engineering is 3rd with a salary of £28,913….and you can do this qualification quicker! So think about what you want to do, research the subject, talk to people about what they do in their day job. List the criteria of what you want out of life and see if the career fits. For instance, I wanted a good wage, to travel and spend some time outdoors and some in an office. I wanted to deal with people and I wanted excitement…I certainly got that in my career.”
The picture shows (left to right) Dean Carney, Niamh Smith, Ross Garside and Jade Gofton at Sembcorp’s headquarters at Wilton.
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Power Provider Sembcorp looks to youth Four former apprentices have shown the value of targeting jobs in the science-based sector, having landed permanent jobs with one of Teesside’s most important industrial employers. Jade Gofton, Niamh Smith, Dean Carney and Ross Garside have been taken on by Sembcorp Utilities UK at the Wilton International site. Twenty-year-olds Jade, Niamh and Dean, were all previously Sembcorp-sponsored apprentices on the four year Tees Valley Production Technician (TVPT) apprenticeship supported by many of the area’s process industry employers. Ross, 21, was snapped up by Sembcorp after business difficulties at his sponsoring company prevented the firm from being able to offer him a permanent role. The four, all of whom gained an HNC qualification in Chemical Engineering during their apprenticeships, are now working hard to develop their understanding of turbine operations at Sembcorp, which provides the power to major process industry companies such as SABIC, Lotte, Huntsman and Ensus at Wilton. They will each have further opportunities to earn as they enhance their education, with Sembcorp paying for them to complete career relevant university degrees if they wish. Dean, from Eston won the prestigious North East Apprentice of the Year title for manufacturing at the NEPIC Annual Awards earlier this year through his enthusiasm and commitment as an apprentice. He said: “It’s great to land a full time position with such a significant company. We’re all delighted to be given such a superb platform from which to build our careers and we’re really enjoying the extra responsibilities that come with being full time employees.” Graham Taylor, Training and Development Manager at Sembcorp, said: “All four excelled in their interviews and have worked extremely hard as apprentices. They’ve settled in really well and are an example and an inspiration to other young people. “It is vitally important that companies like ours continue to recruit high calibre young people to become the engineers and technicians of the future as they will play a key role in driving our business forward.” Sembcorp, which employs about 400 people on Teesside, is currently sponsoring nine apprentices through the TVPT scheme.
21st Century Careers in the North East Process Industry Opportunities www.youtu.be/_PZmrlY3QDY Life Sciences Opportunities www.youtu.be/dOnZ4lwTVWQ Health Care Opportunities www.youtu.be/oASdapdg_PI 110-111 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
Health & Life Sciences Video’s courtesy of www.careerplayer.com
NHS Manager - Clare Culverhouse http://goo.gl/Q2T5S NHS Manager - William Monaghan http://goo.gl/5oNNk
Come back soon for lots of new information about Health & Life Sciences
General Practice Dentist - George Gwynne www.youtu.be/_PZmrlY3QDY
HEALTH & LIFE SCIENCES Where caring meets science to create rewarding careers Imagine working in a place where you go home knowing that you really make a difference to people’s lives…that’s what NHS staff do every day. The NHS is the largest employer in the North East of England with more than 73,000 staff working in more than 350 different jobs. With a population of 2.6 million, the region has a lot of people to take care of, which is why the NHS is always looking for enthusiastic young people who want to work for the service. What does the job need? 112-113 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
Most staff who deliver direct care to patients use a knowledge of science to help provide the best and most effective care. Whilst a general understanding of science is useful for many of these careers, for example nursing, there are roles which involve a detailed and in-depth knowledge of pure science, for example chemistry and physics. Healthcare scientists, doctors, dentists and many of the allied health professions use their expert knowledge of science on a daily basis.
What kind of science-based jobs are available in the NHS? l Anatomical Pathology Technician l Audiological Scientist l Audiologist l Biomedical Scientist l Cardiac Physiologists and Cardiac Clinical Scientific Officers
However, the NHS is not just full of scientists or doctors and nurses. It also has opportunities for people with all sorts of other skills and interests. Whatever your passion, chances are the NHS has the perfect career for you.
l Cardiographer
You can work directly with patients or help to support those staff that do both, in hospitals or in the community. Staff who have the most direct contact in treating and caring for people usually come from nursing, midwifery, medicine, dentistry, the allied health professions or healthcare science.
l Clinical Embryologist
There are also a wide range of jobs such as management, finance and maintenance, which although they have less direct contact with patients, make an important contribution in the delivery of health care.
l Clinical Scientist in Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics
What qualifications do I need? Don’t worry if you’re not going to be the next surgeon. The NHS also needs staff who are happier with talking, typing or training. For many clinical roles, you will have to study to degree level, but for other jobs you won’t.
l Cervical Cytoscreener l Clinical Biochemist l Clinical Cytogeneticist l Clinical Engineer l Clinical Immunologist l Clinical Microbiologist
l Clinical/Medical Technologist l Community Pharmacist l Gastroenterology Technician l Haematologist l Hearing Therapist l Hospital Pharmacist l Medical Illustrator
Where can I work? Across the North East of England, the NHS has eight hospital trusts, 12 primary care trusts, around 400 GP surgeries, over 500 pharmacies, one ambulance trust and two specialist trusts providing mental health and learning disabilities services. There are also in excess of 300 NHS dentists. The annual budget is almost £5 billion, which is spent on everything from staff salaries to operations, plastercasts or rubber gloves used in hospitals. There is a strong belief in training and the NHS spends £270 million of its budget educating and training staff so that they can deliver even better care for the people of the North East. And it isn’t always about high-tech procedures and fancy equipment. More often than not, patients say that what makes the real difference to them is the compassion and professionalism of the people who care for them. If you are a people person, then the NHS could be a rewarding and interesting place for you to work and by being part of it, you could help the people of the North East to live longer, happier and healthier lives
l Medical Laboratory Assistant l Medical Physicist l Molecular Geneticist l Neurophysiology Technician l Operating Department Practitioner l Perfusionist, Respiratory Physiology Technician l Pharmacy Technician l Phlebotomist l Scientist in Haemostasis and Thrombosis Other types of jobs An A-Z of all 350 NHS jobs can be found at www.nhscareers.nhs.uk/atoz.shtml To find out more about working for the NHS, visit www. northeast.nhs.uk/careers or www.nhscareers.nhs.uk
HEALTH & LIFE SCIENCES Institute for Ageing and Health We are all living longer and we all want to be healthy as we grow older. Sadly, for many people, this is not often the case, as various chronic age-related illnesses affect the wellbeing of many people. The Institute for Ageing and Health (IAH) was founded in 1994, to help understand the ageing process and disease mechanisms and to translate its internationally recognised scientific research excellence and knowledge into healthcare benefits for people all over the world.
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The IAH is based on the former General Hospital site in West Newcastle, on the rapidly developing Campus for Ageing and Health, which provides world class facilities for: l l l l
Research (basic science and clinical) Training Business engagement Public and patient engagement
The Campus for Ageing and Health has a vibrant research environment and an academic building complex, delivering high quality translational research. Core to these facilities is the Clinical Ageing Research Unit (CARU), a purpose-built clinical trials unit developed specifically with the older person in mind. The Campus for Ageing and Health is constantly developing and the Biomedical Research Building (BRB) is due to open in November 2011. The work that takes place in the BRB is important to Newcastle Biomedicine’s recently refurbished NIHR Biomedical Research Centre in Ageing and Chronic Diseases, and the newly awarded Biomedical Research Unit in Lewy Body Dementias.
The IAH also hosts two important National Research Networks, the Dementia and Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Network (NIHR-DeNDRoN) and the Stroke Research Network (NIHR-SRN). Both networks are playing a major role in coordinating research in their disease areas across the UK. The IAH offers a stimulating environment for training and education in basic science, translational medicine and clinical trials. There is a varied postgraduate academic seminar series which covers all aspects of our work www. ncl.ac.uk/iah/about/seminars/ Public and patient engagement is an important element of the work of the IAH and played a key part in the University’s first Societal Challenge Theme “Changing Age” this will help to spread ageing research beyond the Institute www.ncl.ac.uk/res/about/enterprise/ changing_age.html
HEALTH & LIFE SCIENCES NESCI (North East England Stem Cell Institute) NESCI is a regional initiative focused on translational stem cell science. It is a collaboration between Durham and Newcastle Universities and NHS Trusts in the region that brings together stem cell scientists and clinicians working on embryonic and adult stem cells in many different tissues and diseases. NESCI’s commitment to practical outcomes for stem cell research will contribute to the development of new therapies for treating degenerative diseases, production of enabling tools and technologies for use in research and economic growth in the region through commercialisation of its innovations. To do this, NESCI has strong links with a range of academic, clinical, commercial and other partners. NESCI scientists have access to world-class facilities, including a GMP facility for the production of cellular therapies. NESCI also works with other stem cell scientists, clinicians and educators through organisations such as the UK National Stem Cell Network, International Consortium of Stem Cell Networks, and RegeNer8. Visit the NESCI website to find out about research that is taking place, the latest news and events www.nesci.ac.uk/.
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In the North East, there are several companies working in related areas: Vitro Safe Systems www.vitrosafe.co.uk Orla Proteins www.orlaproteins.com Ithaka LifeSciences www.ithaka.co.uk Reinneravate www.reinnervate.com
Mechanical Engineer - Anchala Klein http://goo.gl/AzIcV Mechanical Engineer - Ben Meredith http://goo.gl/Gnn3P Mechanical Engineer - Joe Fennell http://goo.gl/HmyZv Mechanical Engineer - Mike Wolfendale http://goo.gl/l36Mp Civil Engineer - Andy Milner http://goo.gl/O5Jpy
Mechanical Engineer - Ross Dewhurst http://goo.gl/juKZu
Civil Engineer - Chris Webster http://goo.gl/f3A0J Civil Engineer - Joseph Durrant http://goo.gl/X0FpO Civil Engineer - Laura Shemirani http://goo.gl/8BYul
Civil Engineer - Rachel Screeton http://goo.gl/f9ZTP
Aerospace Engineer - Lee Evans http://goo.gl/xkPVE Aerospace Engineer - Pete Thomas http://goo.gl/ILkly Aerospace Engineer - Sarah Nicholls http://goo.gl/blZ9m Defence Engineer - Charlie August http://goo.gl/o7Bcy 21st Century Careers in the North East Digital Opportunities www.youtu.be/-3Ao3cDE2x8 Renewables Opportunities www.youtu.be/8QT0j8lk_1E
Engineering Industry Overview http://goo.gl/X8WQz 118-119 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
Engineering Opportunities www.youtu.be/EDoIqMOF25s
Low Carbon Transport Video’s courtesy of www.careerplayer.com
Chemical Engineer - Sarah Reed http://goo.gl/pKtu8 Chemical Engineer - Sherrie Ann Najab http://goo.gl/vtLRn Electrical Engineer - Jenny McGeough http://goo.gl/DX8jJ Electrical Engineer - Scott Keough http://goo.gl/qSWyo
Environmental Engineer - Andrew Wilkes http://goo.gl/gGVon
Environmental Engineer - Louis Brimacombe http://goo.gl/x2lQF
Nuclear Engineer - Belaal Auladin http://goo.gl/Wmynn Commerical Pilot - Jamie Sharp http://goo.gl/GZ4MN Process Lead Contracting - Lewis Howard http://goo.gl/4Ie4w Senior Manager - Rup Banerjee http://goo.gl/G4myk
Don’t forget to keep coming back and checking us out as we will continue to add new information over future months
LOW CARBON TRANSPORT TYPES OF LOW CARBON VEHICLE For most people, low carbon transport means electric vehicles. However, low carbon transport has developed to represent so much more, including: l Fuel Cell vehicles l Hybrid vehicles l Electric vehicles 120-121 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
Fuel Cell Vehicles Electricity is generated via a hydrogen-based fuel – the only emission is water. During the process, the fuel cell containing the hydrogen undergoes a chemical reaction to convert the energy to electricity. Hydrogen-fuel powered cars have zero emissions, making them environmentally-friendly. Hybrid Vehicles Hybrids can offer up to a 30% reduction in fuel consumption, reducing emissions. They get their power from two sources – a conventional internal combustion engine and an electric motor. There are three types of hybrid: 1. Series hybrid – the wheels are driven by the electric motor which in turn is powered by the internal combustion engine. 2. Parallel hybrid – the wheels are driven by either the electric motor or the internal combustion engine, e.g. this is what happens in the Toyota Prius. Often the original source of power comes from the combustion engine. Both series and parallel hybrid vehicles are powered by the electric motor at lower speeds, such as in a town centre, and the combustion engine takes over at higher speeds with switchover controlled by computer systems. Series and parallel hybrids cannot be charged from a mains supply/charging point. 3. Plug-in hybrid – combustion engine with a rechargeable battery. Primary power is supplied by the electric motor (around 40miles); the combustion engine takes over when the battery power is empty. Plug-in hybrids can be charged from a mains supply/ charging point. The battery power in all three types of hybrid vehicles can be topped up by ‘regenerative braking’. This is where the driver takes their foot off the accelerator and/or brakes. The process converts the energy to electricity which is fed back in to the battery. This action alone can further improve fuel consumption by another 20%! Electric Vehicles Electric vehicles do not have traditional internal combustion engines – they are fully driven by electric motors and controllers powered by rechargeable battery packs. As well as plugging-in and recharging the battery, regenerative braking tops up the available power when being used. They also do not have a gearbox or clutch so won’t need to be serviced as regularly and have the potential to be subject to much lower maintenance costs.
Electric Vehicles As already mentioned there are three different types of low carbon car. Details of some of them are below: Already available/coming soon: l Avid Cue-V www.avidvehicles.com l Citroen C-Zero www.citroen.co.uk l SmartForTwo www.uk.smart.com l Liberty-E Range Rover www.liberty-ecars.com l Nissan Leaf www.nissan.co.uk/leaf l Mitsubishi i-MiEv www.mitsubishi-cars.co.uk/imiev l Peugeot iOn www.peugeot.co.uk/ion Concept /Trial / Performance l Mini E www.mini.co.uk/modelrange/making-the right-choice/minimalism l Citroen SurVolt www.citroen.co.uk l Lightning GT www.lightningcarcompany.co.uk l Evelio www.evelio.co.uk l Tesla Roadster www.teslamotors.com/roadster More information can be found at EEMS Accelerate (www.eemsaccelerate.co.uk)
Commercial Vehicles l Smith Electric Vehicles www.smithelectric.com l Hitachi Trains – coming soon! www.hitachirailproject.co.uk Hitachi Trains have acquired a site in Newton Aycliffe, which will be the only train manufacturing facility of Hitachi outside Japan. Nanotechnology and telematics are an important part of electric vehicles. l Nanotechnology can be found in materials that are dirt repellent such as anti-glare coatings and those that are more resistant to light through to improved fuel cells and miniature advanced interior technologies such as mood lighting. l Telematics are key to reducing drivers’ range anxiety and are important in providing in-vehicle, online and smartphone based systems, e.g. remotely controlling whether heating inside the car is on or off and the ability to locate charging points that are available to use. l It is possible that insurance companies could use telematics to gather information about the driver to set premium costs, e.g. the number of miles driven, average speeds, the time of day journeys are made etc. Designing and manufacturing low carbon vehicles (including conversions) and the power source requires high level skills. In the main these high level skills are based upon traditional engineering skill-sets: l Electrical and electronic design l Understanding power and motor development (highly specialised skills and application) l Software engineering (controls, connections and internal systems) Low carbon vehicle skills are also very close to aviation and aeronautical engineering and skills because of the person’s: l Ability to work in very controlled and disciplined environments l Analytical skills – interpreting and using data and information l Problem solving skills Often, companies will provide on-the-job training and will usually do this in-house as it will be very specific to the organisation. If you want to work in motor control technology/ motor components you will need to study hard – many companies would like employees to have a degree. Material scientists and chemists of all variations are needed, even in component development, design and manufacture – not just in battery development and manufacture!
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Many companies want mechanical engineers to carry out embedded code writing. Charging Network The charging network, also known as the charging infrastructure, is very important to the success of electric vehicles. Locally, two projects called ‘Charge Your Car’ and ‘Plugged in Places’, (www.chargeyourcar.org.uk) have been setting up 1,300 charging points across the North East. This is crucial as a major concern for many owners is the difficulty involved in opping up their vehicles. Charging points will be located on streets, car parks, supermarkets and workplaces. It is anticipated that there will be more than 600 public charging points, about 400 domestic charging units and 12 rapid charging points. l Rapid chargers produce 50kw of power and can charge your car to 80-85% battery capacity in only 20-25 minutes. l Standard charging points produce 3kw to 7kw of power and will get your car fully charged in around 6-8 hours. Another local project is ‘Switch EV’. This project is trialling the use of 44 different electric vehicles around Newcastle and the North East seeking to find out how driving an electric vehicle affects driving behaviour, what patterns emerge in recharging vehicles and, if electric vehicles are adopted in larger numbers, what will be the impact on the environment? As more charging points are installed, the demand for skilled people to look after them in the future also increases. That demand does not mean just traditional maintenance but IT, programming, data analysis and monitoring. That is because charging points are full of complex systems. Inside a typical charging point you will find: l A number of safety trip switches providing over current protection and damage protection systems. l Electricity meters to collect data about how much electricity is being used by the post and the sockets that are being plugged in to it from cars. l Computer equipment to identify whether or not a vehicle is attached, the status of the vehicle battery and the validity of the users’ card. l Computer equipment also controls the individual charging point so that it can receive, process and transmit data/instructions between a back office and the post. (The back office is where all the data is kept and where users’ bills are generated. l Communications equipment such as GPRS. l Radio frequency ID card readers and associated electronics. Advancements in technology could see inductive charging being introduced as a standard form of charging within the next 10years. (Inductive charging
is where plates on the underside of the vehicle align with plates on the ground to recharge the battery). To find out more about inductive charging take a look at:
that are in the battery and refilling with new chemicals to be sold again – a bit like refurbishing your laptop or mobile phone.
www.youtu.be/dr1mBPySz7U (Siemens)
Local organisations
www.youtu.be/z8l4JH6BG7Y (HaloIPT)
The North East is leading the way in low carbon transport development and manufacture, from the vehicles themselves through to the intricate and critical components needed to make the vehicles work.
Batteries / Fuel Cells Batteries are the most valuable and expensive part of an electric vehicle, often being worth at least 50% of the overall value of the car. The batteries currently found inside electric vehicles are lithium-ion. Originally, vehicles such as the Nissan Leaf and the Tesla Roadster were going to be powered by lithium-polymer batteries, but, advancements were so quick that the lithium-ion became the battery of choice. Newer battery and power technologies are continually being developed e.g. lithium-air and further refinement of hydrogen fuel cells. l Lithium-air batteries have the potential and the capability to provide superior charging and discharging which will vastly improve the distance electric vehicles can cover in one charge (the ‘range’).
Such companies include: l Avid Vehicles www.avidvehicles.com l Elecscoot www.elecscoot.co.uk l Hiltech Developments www.hiltechdevelopments.com l Nissan www.nissan.co.uk www.careersatnissan.co.uk www.nissan-recruitment.eu l Scott Racing www.scottracing.com
l In September 2011, Honda and BOC opened the UK’s first commercial hydrogen fuel filling station in Swindon.
l Smith Electric Vehicles www.smithelectric.com
l An advanced lithium-ion battery plant at Nissan in Sunderland will be in full operation from 2013 with an anticipated 50,000-60,000 battery units being manufactured.
The following pages contain information about the developments and work that is happening in some of the low carbon transport companies in and around Newcastle.
l Battery development and manufacture is cutting edge, taking advantage of emerging and advanced clean room technologies and engineering. When batteries are no longer capable of providing 100% power to the vehicle, they can have a ‘secondlife’ as something else. A lot of research around the second-life of batteries is taken place around the world. Possible uses for reduced capability batteries include: l Life as a back-up generator and power source for computers, server systems and telecommunications networks. l To support the national grid, e.g. storing excess electricity produced by homes that have solar panels. l Being used in peoples’ homes as a sustainability utility resource, e.g. to capture and store energy only for the use of that home. Recycling vehicle batteries poses potential problems such as how do you get rid of the plastic housing and stabilising solutions in an environmentally friendly way? Some vehicle manufacturers are, therefore, researching the possibility of ‘re-fitting’ the batteries. This involves the disposal of reactants and chemicals
LOW CARBON TRANSPORT SEVCON Sevcon is a world leader in the design, manufacture and supply of electronic motor controllers and systems components for electric and hybrid vehicles. For over 50 years Sevcon Ltd has been involved in the battery powered electric vehicle industry, designing and manufacturing high quality traction motor controller systems. With product development in the UK and a global network of commercial and engineering support, our products have been successfully applied to a vast range of pure electric and hybrid vehicles around the world. Priding ourselves on our products with a dedication to design and development, we are constantly evolving to meet the needs of our customers and partners. Sevcon operates worldwide from our headquarters in Gateshead, UK, and from subsidiaries in France, Japan, Korea, and the USA.
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Global presence Increasingly, across the globe, electric vehicles, electric bikes and scooters will be having a major impact on the way we work, live and travel. For many years the electric vehicle was the preferred solution for a wide range of applications from forklift and industrial access platforms to golf carts and utility vehicles. Within the last decade, interest along with new applications has been spreading around the globe. The race to cut carbon emissions, develop cleaner more sustainable technologies and modes of transport is no longer a vision but a fact of life. Sevcon was among the first in the industry to anticipate the vision becoming a reality in many countries. Milestones Who we work with Working alongside other world-class suppliers and industry organisations, Sevcon is challenging technological boundaries as demand grows to generate greater power and efficiency from smaller, lighter components. Working with others, we have developed a number of ground-breaking products. Sevcon works with a range of blue chip international manufacturers. We are currently supplying the ultra-compact Gen4 controllers in Peugeot’s pioneering zero emission e-Vivacity scooters, and Renault’s Z.E. Twizy.
Our history Sevcon has been at the forefront of electric vehicle control technology since we were established in 1961. We have continually pushed the boundaries of technology, delivering new products that match the need for greater power and control. Sevcon has been something of a pioneer since the early days. We were the first to demonstrate the use of SCR (silicon based) technology for electric vehicle speed control. Once perfected, we wasted little time in transferring this to practical applications in battery driven electric milk floats and forklifts. The spirit of innovation has remained as we have diversified and modernised our product range. Our latest generation of motor controllers - Gen4 - incorporates the most modern motor control technology; they are the smallest controllers in the industry relative to power delivery. We have come a long way since the early days, gradually extending our operations around the world.
1961 Sevcon is formed and pioneers the development and manufacture of motor control systems SCR (silicon controlled rectifier) control devices 1968 Establishes first subsidiary in Paris 1969 Sevcon office established in Boston, Massachusetts 1988 Sevcon became a public company listed on the American stock exchange 1990 A sales office was opened in Tokyo 1995 Sevcon reinforced the commitment to the emerging Asian economies by opening a sales office in Seoul, Korea 2000 Established Sevcon Asia Limited in Seoul 2006 Sevcon Japan established 2008 Launch the first products in the Gen4 series Today, Sevcon is a world leader in the design, manufacture, and marketing of electric motor control systems for electrically powered vehicles.
Careers Sevcon is a fast growing company and we regularly look for new colleagues that can contribute to our business. As with most engineering related careers, a good grounding in mathematics and physics will put you a step ahead, but don’t forget about your other employment skills such as your creativity and ideas, your personality, communicating with others and being self-driven or working as a team! If you would like to find out more about the opportunities available at Sevcon, email us at hr@ sevcon.com
LOW CARBON TRANSPORT Future Technology - Be at the leading-edge We think the future is a seriously fun place. We think that cars of the future will be fun yet practical to own and drive. Perhaps even more importantly we believe that these vehicles will be responsible, safe and help to create a cleaner, better world. Not to mention enhance the quality of life for generations to come. You can help us achieve this vision. We have a vast and diverse portfolio of future-focused projects. From day one, you’ll be right at the heart of them, adding your specialist skills to the wide-ranging talents of our world-class teams. Here are some of the exciting projects we currently have in the pipeline and an example of the kind of engineering challenges, you could help to solve. 126-127 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
The next generation - Nissan Qashqai
The Nissan LEAF
The one millionth Nissan Qashqai has recently been driven off our production line securing the prestigious position of being one of the most successful British-built cars – ever. In fact no other UK-built vehicle has reached the million-mark in such a short space of time.
www.nissan.co.uk/#vehicles/electric-vehicles/ electric-leaf/leaf/discover/3D/explore/map
Here at Nissan Sunderland we’re already focused on the next exciting challenge, to design, engineer and build the new Nissan Qashqai model. Future production of which will safeguard the jobs of 6,000 people at Nissan and in the UK supply chain. Get involved!
The Nissan LEAF, the 2011 European Car of the Year, is the world’s first mass-produced 100% electric family car and will be manufactured at Nissan Sunderland Plant from 2013. What’s more, the new advanced Lithium-Ion Battery Plant at Sunderland will create the cutting edge cells that will power it. This project focuses on emerging, clean room technology and groundbreaking engineering. It is spearheading the electric revolution across the globe. You could too.
People Stories
Competitive
We value their people extremely highly, because we know that the innovative and high quality products they manufacture will only ever be as good as the people who make them.
It’s about never being complacent and instead focusing on competition, and continuous benchmarking.
So we strive to attract world-class talent and once we attract you, we aim to keep you, by making sure that you’re challenged, stimulated, professionally developed and above all happy!
Above all, it’s about striving to achieve maximum results with minimum resources.
So see what some of our people have to say about working for us. Follow this link to find out answers the questions below: www.careersatnissan.co.uk/nmuk-sunderland/ our-people l What were you doing before you joined Nissan? l What motivated you to apply for your current position? l What do you do on a day-to-day basis? l What challenge are you working on right now? l What’s it like to work here? l How have you developed or progressed since joining? l In five years time where do you see yourself? l Why would you recommend working at Nissan?
THE NISSAN WAY
www.careersatnissan.co.uk/nmuk-sunderland/ nissan-way Cross-functional Ours is a cross-functional and International environment, where everyone pulls together in strong teams to deliver results. Yes it can be technically demanding and yes there are targets to meet. But at the same time it’s immensely rewarding to see how our determination to exceed expectations creates such amazing success stories again and again. We call this approach to work the Nissan Way. It’s a way of doing things that’s designed to bring the best out of every employee. Transparent It’s about being open and showing empathy towards different views. It’s about embracing diversity and preferring clarity and simplicity, to vagueness and hiding. Learner It’s about being passionate. Learning from every opportunity and helping us to create a learning company.
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Frugal
You see we believe that if you work hard enough anything is possible, especially if everyone shares the same vision, values and aspirations. Nissan Power 88 This is a demanding business plan for 2011 – 2016 with challenging objectives. The main thrust of it is based on achieving the ‘88’ by 2016: l 8% increase in global market share l 8% increase in operating profit Key goals It’s ambitious, but we believe, achievable. Highlights include: An extended new product plan, which will deliver an all-new vehicle every six weeks for six years. The company’s global portfolio will have 66 vehicles and will cover 92% of all markets and segments The emphasis on sustainable mobility will continue. Cumulative electric vehicle sales for the RenaultNissan Alliance will aim to reach 1.5 million units ”Mobility for all” will expand with dedicated new cars and light commercial vehicles (LCVs) developed for entry-level segments and emerging markets
THE ROLES
www.careersatnissan.co.uk/nmuk-sunderland/ roles When it comes to exciting, innovative and creative engineering and maintenance careers, you’ll struggle to find any as exceptional as those at the Nissan Sunderland Plant. Over the last 25 years we’ve developed our Sunderland Plant into one of the smartest, efficient and most successful vehicle manufacturing plants in Europe. And with demand for our popular Nissan Qashqai, Juke and Note models continuing to be high, we’re focused on improving our quality and facilities across the full range of the vehicle manufacturing process. So you’ll be working on a wide range of exciting projects. From developing the next generation Nissan Qashqai to manufacturing our cutting edge Lithiumion energy cells for the world’s first mass-produced electric passenger car, the Nissan LEAF. Passion and motivation, plus a hardworking and
flexible attitude are vital. Working well in a team, you’ll also happily collaborate with other departments and colleagues to support the needs of our comprehensive motor manufacturing facility.
Quality Assurance Engineers
We expect a lot, but in return we’ll give you plenty of support, training and development. Not to mention the security of growing your knowledge and skills with one of the global leaders in agile, objective driven motor manufacturing.
Setting class leading quality targets and strategies, this is a diverse role offering a variety of challenges and wide-ranging responsibilities at the leading edge of technology.
What’s more, due to our continued growth and manufacturing success, we also have career opportunities across areas such as HR, finance and marketing. So, whatever your ambitions, our size, scope and global reach can help you to go far. Work hard here and the opportunities really are endless. The sheer variety of projects and challenges will stretch your skills on a daily basis and we’ll invest time and money in your career development too. We’re committed to developing all of our people to the very best of their ability. Our training programmes are widely recognized, and what’s more, we’re regular recipients of the Investors in People award too.
CAREER DEVELOPMENT
www.careersatnissan.co.uk/nmuk-sunderland/ development-benefits
Confident and persuasive, you’ll represent the Quality Assurance element of our business within projects, new vehicle introductions and ongoing manufacture.
Press Die Maintenance Technician Implement innovative countermeasures on Press/ Injection Moulding tooling across a wide range of disciplines. From TIG, MIG, ARC welding, fitting or hand grinding to a tight tolerance and preventative die/tool maintenance. We’re focused on developing solutions to real world problems. Join our talented team of professionals and you will be too. Battery Tooling Technician Drive forward next generation technology by joining us in the very first stages of our Battery Plant development. Maintaining tool jigs and cutting tools in a high volume, mass production environment, you’ll be exposed to the future of motor manufacturing and be able to professionally progress at the leading edge.
Training plans will typically include: l A structured and informative induction programme l A regularly reviewed individual development plan l Full support to achieve professional qualifications l Opportunities to attend a wide range of both internal and external training courses l Opportunities to experience other Nissan operations, both within Europe and on a worldwide basis Production Engineers This is your chance to provide technical support to a world-class ‘lean’ manufacturing department that produces quality vehicles every 60 seconds. Developing innovative new products from concept to launch, you’ll enjoy diverse challenges, a range of rewarding opportunities and be responsible for owning your projects from start to finish. Facility Engineers Rise to the challenge of taking a wide range of mechanical and electrical work through from concept to installation, modification and refurbishment in this vital role. Rarely is such variety and opportunity for development available on one manufacturing site. In fact this really is cross-functional working at it’s best.
Facilities Maintenance Technician We’re looking for a strong problem solver, with high levels of motivation and organisational skills. So if you’ve served your apprenticeship as a maintenance craftsman or technician, in either a mechanical or electrical discipline, then rise to a fresh career challenge as part of our future focused team.
Mechanical Engineer - Anchala Klein http://goo.gl/AzIcV Mechanical Engineer - Ben Meredith http://goo.gl/Gnn3P Mechanical Engineer - Joe Fennell http://goo.gl/HmyZv Mechanical Engineer - Mike Wolfendale http://goo.gl/l36Mp Civil Engineer - Andy Milner http://goo.gl/O5Jpy
Mechanical Engineer - Ross Dewhurst http://goo.gl/juKZu
Civil Engineer - Chris Webster http://goo.gl/f3A0J Civil Engineer - Joseph Durrant http://goo.gl/X0FpO Civil Engineer - Laura Shemirani http://goo.gl/8BYul
Civil Engineer - Rachel Screeton http://goo.gl/f9ZTP
Aerospace Engineer - Lee Evans http://goo.gl/xkPVE Aerospace Engineer - Pete Thomas http://goo.gl/ILkly Aerospace Engineer - Sarah Nicholls http://goo.gl/blZ9m Defence Engineer - Charlie August http://goo.gl/o7Bcy
21st Century Careers in the North East Renewables Opportunities www.youtu.be/8QT0j8lk_1E Engineering Opportunities www.youtu.be/EDoIqMOF25s Process Industry Opportunities www.youtu.be/_PZmrlY3QDY
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Advanced Manufacturing Opportunities www.youtu.be/MsoBH9ZTLgU
Energy Generation & Distribution Video’s courtesy of www.careerplayer.com
Chemical Engineer - Sarah Reed http://goo.gl/pKtu8 Chemical Engineer - Sherrie Ann Najab http://goo.gl/vtLRn Electrical Engineer - Jenny McGeough http://goo.gl/DX8jJ Electrical Engineer - Scott Keough http://goo.gl/qSWyo Environmental Engineer - Andrew Wilkes http://goo.gl/gGVon
Environmental Engineer - Louis Brimacombe http://goo.gl/x2lQF
Don’t forget to keep coming back and checking us out as we will continue to add new information over future months
Nuclear Engineer - Belaal Auladin http://goo.gl/Wmynn
ENERGY GENERATION & DISTRIBUTION EU Skills (www.euskills.co.uk) and Cogent (www.cogent-ssc.com) are the sector skills Councils for those industries responsible for energy generation and energy distribution activities: l Waste management l Power l Gas l Water l Nuclear In the next 5-15years, the energy sector will lose about 80% of the workforce due to retirement – this means that skilled workers will be in high demand from the industry, whether it be those already working in the sector or those seeking to retrain. A lot of the skills prevalent in the North East, such as engineering, easily transfer into the energy generation and distribution sector. 134-135 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
Gas Industry
Power Sector
Gas transmission and gas distribution activities ensure safe and reliant transport of gas from entry ports found along the country’s coastline, through to the national transmission system - via highly pressurised pipelines through to the local gas distribution networks.
Currently the power sector has more than 87,000 people in the workforce but the industry is being affected by the ageing population, meaning more people are needed to work in the power sector.
Gas comes in two forms: l Liquefied petroleum gas l Liquefied natural gas Gas transmission and distribution l the control, storage and re-gasification of liquefied natural gas l the manufacture and distribution of liquefied petroleum gas and other bottled gases l the installation operation and maintenance of asset infrastructures. Gas transmission and distribution employs around 18,500 people Gas utilisation refers to the installation and maintenance of gas-fuelled appliances (consumer, domestic, industrial) Waste Management Industry
By 2024, 35,000 new employees must be recruited to meet the challenges of the ageing workforce. The sector covers all activities in power generation, national transmission (including the national grid network and infrastructure) and local distribution to our homes, schools and businesses. Manufacturing and transport related industries have the highest consumption levels of power and so are very dependent upon the power sector. To find out more about where our electricity comes from, have a look at: http://goo.gl/kuXyO AND www. nationalgrid.com/ui/static/mh/ Energy / Power generation The generation network covers the generation of electricity through coal, gas, oil, biomass and hydro methods of powering turbines. (EU Skills)
UK households produce enough waste to fill 3.5million double decker buses – in other words, 30million tonnes! If all of the buses were lined up back to back this would take you from London to Sydney (Australia) and back to London again.
The majority of electricity is generated in the North of England, with the majority of consumption in the South of England. (NSA Think Power)
The industry has activities in:
At December 2010, there were 282 operational wind farms across the UK which are home to a total of 3,149 wind turbines. (To be called a ‘farm’, there must be no less than three wind turbines on the site).
l Waste collection and transport l Transfer stations and household waste and recycling centres l Energy from waste (thermal recovery processes and anaerobic digestion) l Recycling, processing and specialist waste management l Landfill Water Industry The water industry has activities in: l Water transportation from source to treatment to distribution and disposal Distribution activities take place up to and including property boundaries (clean water) and the wider watercourse (waste water). Disposal activities are the taking of waste water from properties through to treatment works and, finally, to the water course. Other activities also include collection, storage, treatment, waste processing and water distribution. There are a number of types of organisations in the water industry:
Wind energy generation
A total of 7,500 offshore wind turbines are required by 2020 to meet EU targets. This is enough turbines to provide the UK with around 20% of all power requirements. The UK has the largest offshore wind farm potential in the world. Sites for wind farms are identified by “wind atlases”. The atlases contain information about the speed and direction of wind. It takes at least 12months to gather this information. Ideal wind farm sites (onshore and offshore) have an almost constant flow of wind for 365 days of the year. This is much better at generating energy than a farm that has stronger and more intense periods of wind over a shorter period of time. By 2020 there will be around 60,000 jobs in wind energy – approximately 6,000 of these will be for the operation and maintenance of the farms (including sub-sea and robot-operated-vehicles activities).
l Those that are water utility companies l Non-regulated subsidiary water utility companies i.e. those that have activities in construction, engineering, consultancy and laboratory services
Combustion Generation
l Supply chain companies (contractors, manufacturers and suppliers)
l Biomass deals with incoming fuel.
This is the supply of power whilst reducing CO2 emissions; done via biomass and clean coal. Combustion generation is sometimes known as ‘new power’.
Carbon neutral fuels are burned in the process. For example: coal fire stations will mix wood, sawdust,
sunflower seeds and peanuts with coal and hot water to produce superheated steam. This will then produce electricity. The waste can be used to produce concrete building blocks for construction.
It is a very complex process that produces a lot of waste. This waste can be used to produce concrete building blocks for construction. Biomass plants are the second largest renewable energy source in the UK.
l Clean coal deals with the gasses that are produced.
There are two key processes: carbon capture and storage, and, selective catalytic reduction.
Carbon capture and storage is a chemical process that decarbonises and purifies before pumping the energy in to underground storage such as disused offshore gas fields.
Selective catalytic reduction is a chemical process of pouring ammonia over gases to remove the CO2.
Metering network and Smart Grids Traditional meters only read how much electricity you’ve used since your last reading; smart electricity meters tell you what you’ve used, when you used it and how much it’s cost. The information from the smart electricity meter sends information directly to your electricity supplier so that they can send you an accurate bill. More importantly it means they can monitor the power quality and any leaks in the network. Source: NSA Think Power
In the future, advances in technology will mean that you could use your smart meter to remotely control ‘smart’ appliances such as turning on your washing machine when you are out shopping so that you can take advantage of cheaper electricity. Between 2014 and 2019, 54 million new smart meters need to be installed across the UK. This is the equivalent of 20,000 meter installations every day meaning each installer will need to do two installations per day. A total of 29 million properties will receive the new meters. To carry out all of these installations, 7,660 additional people are required by 2016/2017. In the North East there are 1,072,908 properties – this means 2,153,112 meters are to be changed to smart electricity meters. Source: EU Skills
Smart gas meters will also be installed in homes across the UK, however this will not happen until the end of 2020. (NSA Think Power) To allow the new smart meters to communicate with the national grid of energy supply, the infrastructure will need to be upgraded to a smart grid…… A smart grid is digital meaning that it is able to communicate changes in periods of energy demand so that customers can remotely turn appliances and heating
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systems on and off using their smart meters to take advantage of lower prices. (NSA Think Power) More information can be found at Network Revolution (www.networkrevolution.co.uk). Nuclear Power The nuclear power sector generates 18-20% of the UK’s entire electricity supply. Today, nuclear power is key to solving the UK’s energy demands. Currently the sector employs around 56,000 people. As new power plants are constructed and old ones decommissioned, an estimated 1,500 new recruits are going to be needed each year. Over the next few years, as the nuclear sector develops and becomes more prominent over the next few years, there is going to be demand for people to work in: l l l l l
Engineering Business needs Finance Scientific developments Management
Nuclear power activities lie within four main areas: Decommissioning, power generation, processing and defence. Decommissioning This is very current, focusing on the environmental and commercial challenges of nuclear power. Power generation The creation of new, cleaner power stations. Processing Llooking at commercial opportunities, investigating new international markets and making new advances in chemical engineering. Defence In the main this area focuses on the construction of defence submarines; the work varies from construction through to stock maintenance. Source: National Skills Academy for Nuclear
British Energy has a number of very interesting videos which show how power stations work and what nuclear fission is: http://goo.gl/A0Vk7 http://goo.gl/f3X13 http://goo.gl/0X2Ka The National Skills Academy for Nuclear has a wealth of information for students and young adults in the Student Zone…. http://goo.gl/MUIRg As there are so many opportunities and potential routes for you to take in to and once you are in the nuclear sector, the National Skills Academy for Nuclear has made a number of video case studies of actual apprentices, graduates and experienced employees http://goo.gl/ nr7u9
JOB ROLES / OCCUPATIONS There are a huge number of jobs and opportunities available in Energy Generation and Energy Distribution industries……… Wind / Renewable energy generation It is anticipated that there will be a large increase in the number of manufacturing and support roles in wind and renewable energy generation within the next 5-15yrs. Some of the jobs that will need to be filled include: l Cabling, building and facility construction l Planning the site locations for wind farms l Ornithologists and marine biologists as we will need to know what impact wind farms are having on the local marine and wildlife (there will also be other environment-related jobs) l Onshore facilities management which could be in a remote location l Offshore facilities management and support including transporting staff (air, sea, floating hotel roles etc) Metering network and smart grids The majority of opportunities in the near future will be focused upon smart meter installations and the support teams. Qualifications for smart meter roles are very new, only just being released in 2011. Roles include:
Power distributors and load dispatchers control the transmission of power by taking readings from the pilot board which is an automated map of what is happening throughout the grid. If you work in this area, you will be part of a team that controls the operation of current convertors, voltage transformers and circuit breakers to ensure consistent and stable electricity flows. You will also predict and forecast energy usage levels based on previous use and things such as the weather – this information is valuable as it is depended upon by the energy generating plant. Working in this area involves a lot of troubleshooting and problem solving, so it may be that some companies want an engineer with a few years experience behind them. Substation Fitters undertake any and all work required on the building such as inspections, diagnostics and maintenance. To get in to a substation role you will need: l Science, technology and/or maths GCSEs l Perhaps an apprenticeship together with experience of manual handling, dexterity and working at heights. If you don’t have experience or training in these, you will need to be able to show that you have the potential to do them. Installation and maintenance roles appear in four main areas:
Power meter operatives Gas meter operatives Dual fuel meter operatives Current transformer (CT) meter operatives Senior CT meter operatives First line supervisors and team leaders Area managers CT engineers
l Lines people – this is entry level. You will be involved in the installation, maintenance and repair of poles and power lines. You could be working on your own or as part of a small team.
Training is done by the energy suppliers, the meter operators and contracting companies.
l Ground helpers (civil workers) – This involves a lot of street work such as setting up lines, digging holes and connecting power lines); you could also be working in the substations. This is a high risk job as you will be working with exposed power lines and working in ground excavations.
l l l l l l l l
l To become a smart gas meter installer you will require 10-12 weeks training in addition to gas related qualifications. l To become a smart gas meter installer you will require 10-12 weeks training in addition to gas related qualifications. l To be trained in smart dual fuel meter installations requires a further 6months training
l Cable Jointers – this is entry level. You will be responsible for the installation and repair of cables, mainly in urban areas (the underground lines) and troubleshooting problems that arise.
Electricity Transmission and Distribution
l Trouble shooters (distribution supply technicians) – This is a role for when you have gained experience working as a lines person (the norm is that you will have been working as a linesperson for at least five years) as you will need to be able to do repairs and give quick diagnostics in emergency situations, which means you will be working under pressure too!
The national grid is divided in to two parts:
Source: NSA Think Power
l High voltage transmission network covers circuit breakers and transformers in substations. l Lower voltage distribution network covers pylons and overhead lines activities.
Combustion Generation
Source: NSA Think Power
Generally, there are lots of roles in directing and regulating power flows from generators to consumers – in the main these jobs require you to have grounding in engineering and/or technical disciplines.
Typical job roles in ‘new power’ include: l Plant managers, engineering, maintenance, operations and management These roles are supported by engineers, technicians and crafts people, for example: l Shift operations engineers l Project managers
l Maintenance technicians l Business development managers l Electrical, control and instrumentation engineers l Plant performance engineers l Boiler/rotating equipment engineers l Health & Safety engineers l Quality Assurance engineers l Mechanical/Asset engineers Source: NSA Think Power
Gas http://goo.gl/Acsnt Interesting occupations in the area of gas: Engineering Assistant http://goo.gl/2hDnJ Gas Network Engineer http://goo.gl/4vf9E Gas Service Engineer http://goo.gl/eR0Mh Network Officer http://goo.gl/XHzZz Network Operations Manager http://goo.gl/mqKxV l Network Operative http://goo.gl/C8LNV l Technician http://goo.gl/ovPnY l l l l l
Source: EU Skills
Waste Management http://goo.gl/CagNF Interesting occupations in the area of waste management: l Energy from Waste Engineer http://goo.gl/G5kDX l Energy from Waste Plant Operator http://goo.gl/Imlx8 l Environmental Engineer http://goo.gl/bWABw l Landfill Gas Technician http://goo.gl/I5iuo l Recycling Officer http://goo.gl/ofXNE l Recycling Operative http://goo.gl/dWlhj l Refuse Operative http://goo.gl/1lEM7 l Transfer Station Labourer http://goo.gl/9yaUE l Waste Management Officer http://goo.gl/8y6h5 Source: EU Skills
Water http://goo.gl/yJ21E Interesting occupations in the area of water: l Environmental Technician http://goo.gl/Q1d92 l Leakage Operative http://goo.gl/Pqp4d l Mechanical Technician http://goo.gl/14suL l Sewerage Operative http://goo.gl/N5aBX l Water Network Operative http://goo.gl/bC4fk l Water Quality Sampling Officer http://goo.gl/AP5Ly Source: EU Skills
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Power http://goo.gl/iDFny Interesting occupations in the area of power: l Cable Jointer http://goo.gl/XWnc0 l Electrical Engineering Technician http://goo.gl/Ks4u4 l Electrical Fitter http://goo.gl/HT5p2 l Electrical Generation Worker http://goo.gl/4mUEx l Electrical Maintenance Technician http://goo.gl/n0ucg l Overhead Lineworker http://goo.gl/Obejp l Product Technician http://goo.gl/3GI5k Source: EU Skills
Nuclear http://goo.gl/P4al2 The sector skills council for nuclear, Cogent, has a very good careers pathway tool on their website www. cogent-careers.com/careerpathways The interactive tool will allow you to see real job profiles and career opportunities. The tool will also give you information about entry level qualifications and standards. There are a large number of jobs within the nuclear sector including: l l l l l l
Running nuclear power stations Reprocessing fuel Waste management Decommissioning of old nuclear power stations Radiological protection and safety Designing the buildings, plant, systems and equipment
Source: National Skills Academy for Nuclear
Some of the roles you can find out about from Cogent include: l Nuclear Decommissioning Operative http://goo.gl/NJr7s l Nuclear Maintenance Project Engineer goo.gl/KqalF l Operations Support Worker http://goo.gl/UglNM l Radiation Protector Advisor http://goo.gl/E4pHs l Science Technician http://goo.gl/h8Egz l Scientist Engineer http://goo.gl/0UuxK
http://
Other jobs in the sector highlighted by the National Skills Academy are: l l l l l l l l l l
Chemical engineers Electrical and mechanical engineers Instrumentation and control engineers Quality managers Project managers Health & safety managers Design Engineers Non destructive technicians Lab technicians Process engineers
For more information about a career in the nuclear sector take a look at National Skills Academy for Nuclear who have a webpage full of good links http://goo.gl/Rerb2
l Apprenticeships can be found by looking at websites such as the National Apprenticeship Service (www. apprenticeships.org.uk).
The National Skills Academy for Nuclear also has great links for job and recruitment opportunities http://goo. gl/DHS6Y
Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to take an Apprenticeship. Information can be found by looking at websites such as the National Apprenticeship Service (www.apprenticeships.org.uk).
Working in the nuclear sector, you could be doing any number of a wide range of interesting things such as: l l l l l l l l l
l l
Measuring radiation levels Safely disposing of nuclear waste Ensuring security and safety Supervising staff Being involved with business development activities Monitoring plant and equipment Fault finding, recalibration of instruments, machinery and equipment Production monitoring e.g. computer modelling and efficiencies Turning design ideas – your own or others’ – into plans, technical drawings and prototype development Developing and constructing nuclear defence systems and nuclear powered submarines Industrial and academic research and development
There are a couple of routes you can take to work in the nuclear sector – via a higher education route or via an apprenticeship. Higher education l This route will allow you to get a degree, a foundation degree, BTEC, HNC/HND. l You can study specific qualifications e.g. nuclear engineering and nuclear decommissioning. l You are probably going to need at least five GCSEs (grades A-C) and two A-levels (including maths and a science subject), but don’t worry if you don’t have the maths and science qualifications as you could always do a foundation year at college or complete an alternative qualification. When it comes to looking for a job in nuclear power, you might find that you have the advantage over competition if you also have a post-graduate degree and a first degree. Often, your first job will be as a graduate trainee through a dedicated scheme. To get a place on a graduate training scheme you are probably going to need at least a class 2:2. Apprenticeship l An alternative to studying for a higher education qualification is to apply for and complete an apprenticeship. l Joining an apprenticeship programme means you get to study, earn qualifications, gain vital work and industry experience and get paid to do it all! l You will need at least five GCSEs (grades A-C) including maths and a science subject.
By doing an apprenticeship you’ll be able to work your way up from Technician to Engineer to Management level. Technicians can expect to earn between £15,000 and £20,000 per annum. Graduate trainees can expect to earn between £20,000 and £28,000 per annum. Managers can expect to earn between £30,000 and £60,000 per annum – some will earn even more than this. The following pages contain information about the developments and work that is happening in energy generation and energy distribution …….and don’t forget to keep checking us out regularly as we add new information and companies.
ENERGY GENERATION & DISTRIBUTION Northern Powergrid As one of the UK’s leading power distribution companies, Northern Powergrid are investing in their network, and in new people at every level, to enhance the legacy of excellence for their customers. Northern Powergrid delivers electricity from the national transmission system, on behalf of suppliers. Their network covers the North of England with 3.8 million homes and businesses relying on them to provide electricity 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They have three subsidiary companies, Northern Powergrid (Northeast) and Northern Powergrid (Yorkshire), which distribute electricity in their respective regions, and Integrated Utility Services (IUS), which provides engineering resources for the distribution business - from design and commissioning, through construction, to installation. Each year, Northern Powergrid invest around £220million in making the network stronger and believe that their responsibilities to customers go beyond the delivery of electricity to their homes or businesses. Northern Powergrid are also committed to supporting their people in all kinds of ways, join Northern Powergrid and you can be sure of a safe and healthy working environment, excellent training, the chance to set your own goals for career progression defined against a clear framework, and the opportunity to have your say - about our ideas, your job, and your future. Thousands of UK employees are entrusted with generating, transmitting and distributing one of our country’s most essential utilities: electricity. The resource our industry provides powers homes and businesses across the country, fuelling everything from light bulbs and freezers to water treatment works and factories, so whatever your work style or preferred environment, the electricity sector has a job for you! 140-141 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
Over the coming years there will be a shortage of workers in the electricity industry due to demographic challenges and an increased demand for electricity. By the year 2034, our industry needs to recruit and train fifty thousand new employees. These workers will support an industry where generation, transmission and distribution make up the core of our operations. Distribution Network Operator’s (DNO’s) are the owners and operators of the network of conductors, cables and plant that bring electricity from the National Transmission Network to homes and businesses across the UK. With a wide variety of occupations and employers operating in the UK, the electricity distribution sector has one of the most diverse workplaces of any industry. We offer a variety of occupations, including Cable Jointer, Overhead Linesman, Electrical Fitter, Power System Engineer, and many more. Joining our industry in one of these roles will see you getting involved in the challenges that face us over the next few years. By the year 2030, global demand will increase by 60% but our available supply will diminish, we have to be ready for this and this is where you can get involved by being part of an industry that values teamwork and variety, and offers job security and career development. By getting involved in the electricity distribution industry, you’ll be playing a major part in ensuring this crucial resource is available for the future. www.northernpowergrid.com
ENERGY GENERATION & DISTRIBUTION National Renewable Energy Centre Advancing Renewable Energy
Electrical Networks
Narec is the UK’s national translational research centre for the development of systems which will help green energy be integrated with traditional energy grids/networks and supporting developments in offshore wind, wave and tidal energy generation technologies.
Narec provides specialist consulting and test services helping the electrical power sector to solve the needs of future electrical networks and to help extend the life of the existing national networks.
A team of highly experienced scientists and engineers operate some of Europe’s largest translational research and testing facilities for electrical networks, offshore wind, marine and tidal power generation technologies. Customers who work with Narec range from large multi-national companies, to technology start-ups, local authorities and major investors in renewable energy projects.
Narec works with network owners and operators, equipment manufacturers and project developers helping to support the expansion of grids as on and offshore electrical networks develop, making sure power systems are reliable; integrating distributed generation with existing systems; and understanding life extension opportunities for electrical networks. Specialisms include electrical network planning, design, evaluation and characterisation of insulation (and other) materials, electrical test and calibration services. www.narec.co.uk
Environmental Engineer - Andrew Wilkes http://goo.gl/gGVon
Environmental Engineer - Louis Brimacombe http://goo.gl/x2lQF
Electrical Engineer - Jenny McGeough http://goo.gl/DX8jJ Electrical Engineer - Scott Keough http://goo.gl/qSWyo
21st Century Careers in the North East Renewables Opportunities www.youtu.be/8QT0j8lk_1E Engineering Opportunities www.youtu.be/EDoIqMOF25s Subsea Industry Overview http://youtu.be/RyLRQ_tYGTE 142-143 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
Life Sciences Opportunities www.youtu.be/dOnZ4lwTVWQ
Subsea Video’s courtesy of www.careerplayer.com
Mechanical Engineer - Anchala Klein http://goo.gl/AzIcV Mechanical Engineer - Ben Meredith http://goo.gl/Gnn3P Mechanical Engineer - Joe Fennell http://goo.gl/HmyZv Mechanical Engineer - Mike Wolfendale http://goo.gl/l36Mp Mechanical Engineer - Ross Dewhurst http://goo.gl/juKZu
Come back soon for lots of new information about Subsea Software Engineer - Katherine Sanders http://goo.gl/9yclQ Physicist - Chris Holland http://goo.gl/TIAmE
SUBSEA Seeking the horizon - studying the oceans Dove Marine Laboratory One of the most exciting scientific areas in which students can seek to specialise is the work being done to improve Man’s understanding of the oceans. Among the projects which offer opportunities is the Inspiring Oceans initiative run by the Dove Marine Laboratory at North Shields, which is part of the School of Marine Science &Technology at Newcastle University.
The project specialises in careers connected to the sea because the marine sciences world needs dynamic, well-trained young people to look after the sustainable management and exploitation of marine resources. Careers include those in areas such as: Food: On a global basis we consume 170 million tonnes of protein from shellfish and fish annually. It is a particularly important food 144-145 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
source for developing countries, and can contribute to our solutions to world hunger. Marine products: Oceans provide a wide range of other products, including seasalt, agar (that goes into cosmetics, food and has laboratory applications), seaweeds (as fertilisers) and a vast store of compounds yet to be researched that could hold the secret to curing cancers or other diseases.
Energy sources: Gas and oil reserves are abundant under our oceans and have provided us with our fuel to drive our economies and heat our homes for more than a hundred years. Renewable energies: Offshore wind farms, tidal energy and algal-derived biofuels are promising sources of environmentallyfriendly energy under investigation. Transport: For thousands of years, humans have taken to the seas to explore new continents and engage in trade. We still use the seas for trade and getting about in modern times. Today The UK maritime sector directly employs over 250,000 people. It is a £37 billion turnover sector, bigger than aerospace and agriculture combined – the largest maritime sector in Europe. Leisure: Our coastal areas provide us with opportunities to relax, and enjoy. Climate: The world’s oceans are responsible for carrying the sun’s heat around the globe in currents, and thus regulate our climate and weather. As global warming becomes an increasing problem, our oceans mop up carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, locking it away in the deep through the action of biological organisms, and therefore contribute to reducing the impact.
So what’s the next step? Each of the areas outlined here require skilled professionals. Whether it be food scientists or marine biologists, cosmetics experts or environmental specialists, the marine sciences sector offers great opportunities. Newcastle University has joined with NYK Shipping Group to inspire the very best of our young people to consider careers in this crucial sector. At Newcastle you can study professionally accredited courses which focus on engineering and biological aspects of the marine environment. The School is regarded as a major European University centre for these subjects and its graduates are equipped with the academic and practical skills needed to respond to the changing needs of the world, and proceed to a challenging and rewarding career. You can find out more at www.ncl.ac.uk/marine/learning/ and www.inspiringoceans.co.uk/ Looking further afield Newcastle University does not just specialise in marine sciences. From medicine to engineering, its courses cater for a wide range of careers. You can find out more at www.ncl.ac.uk
Equity Cash Trader - Catherine Taylor http://goo.gl/xIHVh European Equity Trader - Matt Wheeler http://goo.gl/CYKPL Executive Assistant to Finance Director - Nicole Ramage
http://goo.gl/kHWB1 Finance Director - Alex Davis http://goo.gl/KJJFZ Generalist Sales - Allison Lobb http://goo.gl/Pp2xv Chartered Accountant - Philip Kemp http://goo.gl/X8X81 Commercial Banking - Fraser Key http://goo.gl/WZGo0 Commodities Research - Amrita Sen http://goo.gl/ePocj
Customer Insight Manager - Ellen King http://goo.gl/8aEkx
Assistant Manager - Kevin Fairclough http://goo.gl/WjlbB Assistant Manager - Matt Sevenoaks http://goo.gl/NW7sf Associate - Benjamin Hamburger http://goo.gl/SRupp Associate - Richard Hopkins Burton http://goo.gl/hrxAh
Audit Assistant - Jen Simmons http://goo.gl/FF4tc Audit Junior - Rawi Noah Basis http://goo.gl/TK9if Audit Manager - Gemma Yuill http://goo.gl/scYqJ
Accountancy Overview http://goo.gl/byPfW Banking & Investment Overview http://goo.gl/uED1n 146-147 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
Barclays - Nigel Rafferty http://goo.gl/cMjnq
Business Analyst - Jade Vincent http://goo.gl/MqhPF
Finance Video’s courtesy of www.careerplayer.com
Director Leveraged Finance - Matt Osbourne
http://goo.gl/6ke7S Director of Pan European Equity Sales - Richard Manning
http://goo.gl/aPa2I Director Quantitative Analyst - Claudia Yastremiz http://goo.gl/XaQWS
Associate Director Sales Structuring -Konstantinos Katsigiannakis
http://goo.gl/hohFc Associate Enforcement Division - Sandeep Bual http://goo.gl/QsvjU Head of Consumer Group - Mark Howden http://goo.gl/5Qm5E Head of Global Transaction Services UK - Aidene Walsh http://goo.gl/wq2Pi
Come back soon for lots of new information about Finance
FINANCE Who are KPMG? KPMG is one of the world’s leading professional services organisations — a global network of member firms operating in 144 countries. Our UK firm offers Audit, Tax, and Advisory services to thousands of clients, from some of the largest multinationals and best-known brands to public bodies and private individuals. This work takes us to the heart of the business world — we help clients grow and develop, advising on risk and helping to improve their financial performance. We’re committed to offering our clients an exceptional experience and we know we can only achieve this if we recruit and retain the best people across the globe. Our 10,000+ people, including 556 partners, are the heart and soul of KPMG in the UK and are given many opportunities to flourish both professionally and personally. KPMG in the UK is a leading provider of professional services including audit, tax and advisory. As part of KPMG Europe LLP we are part of the largest integrated accounting firm in Europe. As an integrated business, KPMG LLP (UK) is in a strong position to respond to client needs, bringing together the right teams at the right time, across disciplines and across borders. The key to our success as a firm lies in our ability to match our insights and skills to the strategic goals of clients, day in and day out.
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KPMG Facts
l €15m invested in communities
KPMG has a clear role and responsibility within the business community. We help companies to grow with confidence. We create fulfilling career opportunities. And we help to build trust between investors and organisations. To get an insight into KPMG in the UK there are some interesting facts below:
In 2008 our full community contribution was nearly €15m and over 5,500 KPMG Europe LLP people contributed 57,000 hours to this work.
We raised €1.6m for Help the Hospices over 2 years.
We are just one of 21 organisations in the UK to have achieved the Business in the Community ‘CommunityMark’ and, once again, to be named ‘Best for Giving Something Back’ in the Sunday Times Best Companies awards.
We are now measuring our carbon footprint and working on ways to reduce these impacts.
In 2007, 4.8million travel miles have been saved through car sharing and video conferencing.
l 43% of our headcount are women
95% of our energy is sourced from renewable sources saving 73,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions since May 2001.
Our new office in Canary Wharf will have ambitious sustainability targets including a 50% CO2 cut against 2006 Building Regulations.
l 9th in the Sunday Times Best Big Companies to work for 2011
KPMG has been awarded 9th place in the Sunday Times ‘Best Big Companies To Work for’ List 2011
KPMG has consistently been placed in the top 10 for the last 6 years and this year as the highest ranking of the Big 4 Accountancy firms. In 2009 KPMG received a special ‘Lifetime Achievement’ award in recognition of our performance in the list.
46% of the workforce across KPMG Europe LLP are women and accounted for 45% of graduate recruits in 2008.
History of KPMG KPMG was formed in 1987 with the merger of Peat Marwick International (PMI) and Klynveld Main Goerdeler (KMG) and their individual member firms. Spanning three centuries, the organization’s history can be traced through the names of its principal founding members - whose initials form the name “KPMG.”
K for Klynveld
P for Peat
M for Marwick
G for Goerdeler
Piet Klynveld founded the accounting firm Klynveld Kraayenhof & Co. in Amsterdam in 1917.
William Barclay Peat founded the accounting firm William Barclay Peat & Co. in London in 1870.
James Marwick founded the accounting firm Marwick, Mitchell & Co. with Roger Mitchell in New York City in 1897.
Dr. Reinhard Goerdeler was for many years chairman of Deutsche Treuhand-Gesellschaft and later chairman of KPMG. He is credited with laying much of the groundwork for the KMG merger.
FINANCE KPMG Careers (www.kpmgcareers.co.uk) School leavers programme Who is it designed for? People qualified to A-Level (or equivalent) standard How long does it last? This is a permanent position When does it start? September 2012 What are of the business will I work in? Audit What are the entry requirements? Grades ABB at A Level, plus a B in GCSE Maths and a B in GCSE English Language (or equivalent) About the programme We believe that our School Leavers’ Programme is a compelling alternative to pursuing a traditional university route. We’ve developed an innovative 6 year programme that offers the opportunity to get a job in our audit team, obtain an accounting degree at Birmingham, Durham or Exeter University, and become a fully qualified chartered accountant with the ICAEW or ICAS. It’s innovative because KPMG was the first to launch such a programme and no other programme offers the same powerful combination of benefits that will see you build a rewarding career as soon as you finish school or college. Importantly, we’re also paying a great starting salary of £20k (in London). This could be your opportunity to be completely free of student debt because your university tuition & accommodation fees and your professional qualification fees will be paid for by us. Who is eligible? First and foremost we’re looking for people who want a career in business and recognise the value of an accountancy qualification and are joining us as a school leaver. In addition, to join us on this programme you need to meet our UK A Level entry 150-151 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
requirements. How do I apply? To apply, you should complete the UK firm’s online application form. If your initial application is successful, you’ll be asked to complete our online numerical and verbal reasoning tests and then be invited to a first interview in one of KPMG’s UK offices. The final part of the selection process will be a written exercise and an interview with a Partner which will include a presentation. Apply now to start an exciting career in accountancy in September 2012.
The gap programme About the placement If you ‘re thinking about taking some time out between school and university, a position on the KPMG Gap Programme will give you an insight into the inner workings of a professional services firm. As more and more employers are looking beyond candidates’ academic records, it will also provide you with unique work experience that should help you to stand out in your peer group. There are three different Gap Programmes that you can apply to: l l l l
KPMG’s Gap Programme in Audit KPMG’s Gap Programme in Public Sector Audit KPMG’s Gap Programme in Risk and Compliance KPMG’s Gap Programme in Transaction Services
How to apply for career opportunities We know you’re busy, so we’ve done our best to make the application process as straightforward as possible for you and have provided a range of tips and useful information
on completing an application and advice on your interview technique. Go to www.kpmgcareers.co.uk KPMG recruit on a ‘rolling’ basis. This means that we do not have a deadline for applications and all applications are processed on a first come, first served basis. The only exception to this is for applicants requiring a work permit. If your preferred programme isn’t currently available, please join our talent community here to be the first to know about new openings. You simply need to enter your email address and specify your preferences in the ‘job agents section.’ You will then receive updates listing the roles that are available in the business area and location of your choice.
Please note, that we only consider a candidate’s ‘top’ 3 A-level grades and do not accept General Studies. *
or equivalent
Entry Requirements for the Gap Programme to start in 2012 As a general rule, you’ll be expected to meet the following requirements: l Minimum Grade B GCSE Maths* l Minimum Grade B GCSE English Language* l Minimum of 320 UCAS Tariff points* (or 26 UCAS points) Please note, that we only consider a candidate’s ‘top’ 3 A-level grades and do not accept General Studies. or equivalent
*
What we look for We’re just as interested in other aspects of your experience and other parts of your character. We won’t make a decision on your application, based on any one factor, but will take a rounded view based on these four key areas: academic results, work experience, skills and abilities, and career motivation. Overall, we’re looking for people who combine good technical skills, problem-solving abilities and commercial focus. We’re also interested in people with a lot of integrity – good team workers who can build effective relationships, learn from experience and bring out the best in others. Perhaps the description ‘complete professional’ best sums up the many excellent qualities we expect you to have. Entry Requirements for the School Leavers’ Programme to start in 2012 As a general rule, you’ll be expected to meet the following requirements: l Minimum Grade B GCSE Maths* l Minimum Grade B GCSE English Language* l Minimum Grades of ABB at A Level*
Extenuating circumstances We do occasionally relax these criteria if there are extenuating circumstances. For example, you may like us to consider something that has affected your academic results. On the application form, you’ll find a section that allows you to detail such circumstances.
FINANCE Ernst & Young We are one of the biggest professional services firms in the world - there are 141,000 of us in more than 140 countries. We work with our clients in a number of ways to help them achieve their full potential. Don’t think you’re not the right type, or that you haven’t got the right qualifications to work here: people with many different talents and strengths flourish here. Our people specialise in one particular area, or service line. This structure and breadth of expertise means we can do an amazing variety of work for a whole spectrum of clients.
Advisory: Help companies improve how they work by identifying, investigating and solving complicated business problems. Assurance: Our clients base big decisions on hard information. You’ll help them identify, verify and interpret key data with confidence. Tax: Working in tax is more than knowing the law. It’s about finding the answers to questions that have never been asked before. 152-153 GLOW: Illuminating STEM Careers - Newcastle Science City
Corporate finance: Show our clients how to preserve, raise and invest their capital so they’re ready for absolutely anything. Financial Services: Get to grips with the ever-changing worldwide financial services market and play a part in shaping its future.
It’s never too early to think about your career
Management School.
Perhaps your career feels as if it’s miles away. But it’s never too early to start thinking about it – because people who get the right experience under their belts first get into extraordinary careers, not just normal jobs.
The Ernst & Young Degree includes 18 months of paid work experience. You’ll also get a first year bursary and – if you do well – maybe a job offer in your third year.
In short, the sooner you get to know the business world the better. Visit www.ukstudentstories.ey.com to hear stories from students and experienced Ernst & Young employees. This link will also provide you with a wealth of information about the opportunities that are available at Ernst & Young whether you are still at school making career choices or have graduated from university. Ernst & Young FastTrack Programmes Our FastTrack programmes put you right inside Ernst & Young, a leading professional services company that helps organisations improve how they work. You can apply to the FastTracks programmes no matter what you’re studying at school or plan to study at university. They’re a great chance to see how a whole range of businesses function. EY FastTracks programmes offer a wide range of experiences including one day insights, internships, international experiences and placements right through to four year degree courses. All these programmes will help you discover what work and life is like at one of the world’s leading professional services firms before you decide on your career. And there’s no better place to get to grips with business than at Ernst & Young, because we do such varied work for so many different companies around the world. There are EY FastTracks for every stage of your academic career, from school, through to university and beyond. These programmes give you exposure to our business so you can then make an informed decision about your career. It doesn’t matter what you’re studying at school or what you plan to study at university. These programmes are open to people who’ve chosen all sorts of subjects. Ernst & Young School Leaver programme (five years) The Ernst & Young School Leaver programme gives you access to an incredible combination of training and work experience, and could help you qualify as an accountant sooner than many graduates. Over the course of five-years you’ll study for a professional qualification, for example Chartered Accountancy, and will work at Ernst & Young from your first day. At the end of your five years you’ll be professionally qualified with a considerable amount of experience of accountancy in the real world. No need for university or a degree. More about the www.ey.com/uk Ernst & Young Degree (four years) A great combination of business and formal education. Study for an accountancy degree that we’ve created together with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland (ICAS) and the University of Lancaster
More about the www.ey.com/uk Ernst & Young Scholarship (three years) This programme runs over the three years of your degree. You’ll get work experience before you start university and during your summer holidays. You’ll get paid £1,000 for each of your three years at university, and there’s an excellent chance we’ll offer you a job as you start your final year. More about www.ey.com/uk Ernst & Young Insight Day (one day) Find out what life at a leading global business is like. Sure, it’s only one day, but you’ll still get to work as part of a team solving a client brief and developing the skills you need to succeed in business. A bit of business knowhow will bring a new perspective to your studies. You’ll also meet some of our people and get to discover more about yourself and what you’re naturally good at. More about www.ey.com/uk Ernst & Young Undergraduate opportunities For information regarding the range of undergraduate career opportunities available at Ernst & Young visit www.ey.com/uk Ernst & Young Graduate opportunities We believe the kind of person you are and the things you’re naturally good at are very valuable to you – and to us. So when you join Ernst & Young as a graduate, you’ll get the chance to work in ways that come naturally – meaning you’re happier and more productive. For more information about graduate opportunities visit www.ey.com/uk www.ey.com www.ey.com/UK/en/Careers