Stepping into STEM

In this episode, we talk with Stephen, a researcher, engineer, and founder of Robot Day. Before starting his PhD in Automotive Cybersecurity, Stephen worked in embedded software for high-performance automotive systems—including Formula 1—and consulted internationally on requirements-led engineering. Now, his research focuses on helping enterprises collaborate on complex, high-integrity road vehicle systems through conceptual modeling. Beyond academia and industry, Stephen is dedicated to public engagement through Robot Day—a volunteer-led celebration of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Maths (STEAM). These free events offer hands-on experiences like robot building, coding workshops, and artistic performances, aiming to inspire people of all ages and backgrounds. Whether he’s advancing the future of mobility or fostering community through robotics, Stephen is using technology as a force for connection, creativity, and positive change. _________________ Find BeScience STEM on ⁠LinkedIn⁠, ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠Youtube⁠, ⁠Twitter⁠, ⁠Newsletter⁠ or at ⁠bescience.org.uk⁠ Check out the Robot Day website here Find Mona Channet on LinkedIn

The headlines about AI replacing jobs and reducing student motivation are everywhere, but that’s only part of the story. AI isn’t just a disruptor; it’s also a powerful tool for learning, innovation, and opportunity. In this special episode for National AI Literacy Day, Katie Walker, tech innovator and founder of Kibian.co, explores how AI is reshaping the way we work and learn. From creating new career paths to helping businesses and individuals thrive, AI has the potential to drive meaningful change when used with intention. _________________ Find BeScience STEM on ⁠LinkedIn⁠, ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠Youtube⁠, ⁠Twitter⁠, ⁠Newsletter⁠ or at ⁠bescience.org.uk⁠ Find Mona Channet on LinkedIn and at her website

In this special International Women’s Day episode, we sit down with Katherine, a trailblazing leader in the space sector. As the former CEO of the UK Space Agency and Chair of the Global Network on Sustainability in Space, Katherine shares her journey from studying Modern Languages and Anthropology to leading multi-billion-euro space programs. We discuss critical issues like space pollution and the urgent need for sustainable space practices, as well as the barriers women face when entering and thriving in the space and tech industries. Katherine reflects on her own experiences, the progress made, and what still needs to change to create a more inclusive and diverse future in space.

In this episode, we sit down with Tyler, a trailblazer in science apprenticeships who started as a trainee lab technician at the University of Nottingham in 2016. Over the past eight years, they’ve climbed the ranks through Level 3, 5, and now Level 6 lab scientist apprenticeships—all while championing the future of apprenticeship pathways in science. From collaborating with the Science Council to founding the Science Apprenticeship Forum, Tyler has been instrumental in shaping policy, organizing conferences, and fostering a network for apprentices. Beyond advocacy, they manage multiple research labs at UoN and are actively working on a meningitis research grant. Join us as we dive into Tyler’s journey, the impact of apprenticeships in STEM, and what’s next for hands-on learning in the lab.

Join Nadia as she takes you on her inspiring journey—from a curious, energetic child passionate about dance, sports, and tackling technical challenges, to earning an M.Eng in Mechanical Engineering at Imperial College London. In this episode, Nadia shares her experience working at Dyson, where she collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to design and optimize cutting-edge digital motors. Discover the excitement of pushing technological boundaries, the challenges of innovation, and what it’s like to work with experts at the forefront of engineering.

Lauren shares her journey into the automotive industry, starting with early work experience programs and design workshops, including her time at JLR where she developed technical skills in Python, CAD, and MATLAB. She discusses the importance of balancing teamwork with personal growth, building a strong network, and taking initiative in projects to boost her confidence and connections. Through her apprenticeship at JLR, Lauren gained a comprehensive understanding of the industry, from working on cars to exploring cutting-edge technology in both engineering and design. She encourages aspiring applicants to be authentic and confident, emphasizing that companies value genuine passion and individuality.

Episode 1 this season features Zaharah, a project engineer at Honeywell, who shares her journey into aerospace engineering. Zaharah discusses overcoming challenges, leveraging skills from basketball to enhance her career, and the importance of persistence when pursuing goals. She highlights her experience with Honeywell’s inclusive hiring process, the variety of tasks in her role, and her ambitions for the future. Zaharah also provides advice for aspiring engineers, emphasizing adaptability, confidence, and valuing life's detours.

Have you ever wondered what possibilities there are in the Tech industry? In this episode, Jessica Okoro is Stepping into STEM with Lauren Alie, a Technology Degree Apprentice making waves in her field. Lauren shares her journey and experiences with the hopes to encourage many young girls to explore STEM subjects.

Have you wondered what an employer from a top company like PwC is looking for in an employee? In this episode, Jessica Okoro is Stepping into STEM with Katherine Bond, who oversees the Technology Degree Apprenticeships. Katherine provides insightful tips on how you can be your best before, during and after your interview.

Have you considered an apprenticeship with a top company such as Jaguar Land Rover? In this episode, Jessica Okoro is Stepping into STEM with Liam, a Higher (Technician) Apprentice at Jaguar Land Rover. Liam shares his passion for Jaguar Land Rover and his journey to his dream job at Jaguar Land Rover.

Does Math and Science just make more sense to you than others? Got a passion for engineering and mechanical principles? Join us on our Stepping Into STEM podcast, where we talk to Indraj, a Final Year Design Engineering Apprentice at Collins Aerospace. Indi shares how diving headfirst and making mistakes early on is the best way to learn! Find Collins on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter or at careers.rtx.com/global/en/collins-aerospace Find BeScience STEM on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube, Twitter, Newsletter or at bescience.org.uk Find Jessica Okoro on LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter

Have you ever been burnt out while furthering your education, and decided to try something different? Join us on our Stepping Into STEM podcast, where we talk to Shannon Reeves, a Business Apprentice at @honeywell . In this episode, Shannon Reeves shares how she ended up quitting college to take a leap of faith in pursuing an apprenticeship! Find Honeywell on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter or at careers.honeywell.com/us/en Find BeScience STEM on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube, Twitter, Newsletter or at bescience.org.uk Find Jessica Okoro on LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter

Have you ever experienced the sense of uncertainty when you realize you aren’t cut out for your dream job?  Join us on our Stepping Into STEM podcast, where we talk to Craig Johnson, who is a Business Leadership Graduate at Collins Aerospace. Craig shares how his initial dream of being a motorsport engineer took a 360° turn into business at Collins Aerospace. Find Collins on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter or at careers.rtx.com/global/en/collins-aerospace Find BeScience STEM on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube, Twitter, Newsletter or at bescience.org.uk Find Jessica Okoro on LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter

Have you felt lost about your career path and wondered what it would take to get an apprenticeship role at a top company? In this episode, Jessica Okoro is Stepping into STEM with Michaela, an experienced HR & Talent Acquisition professional at Honeywell who shares her journey and how it's not always about what’s on the paper that matters. Find Honeywell on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter or at careers.honeywell.com/us/en Find BeScience STEM on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube, Twitter, Newsletter or at bescience.org.uk Find Jessica Okoro on LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter

Did you know your hobbies can help you build your soft skills?   In this episode, Jessica Okoro is Stepping into STEM with Aman, who is on a Flying Start Accountancy degree partnership with PwC. Aman shares how his passion for sports aided him to improve his weaknesses during his Accountancy degree partnership. Find PwC Association on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter or at www.pwc.co.uk Find BeScience STEM on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube, Twitter, Newsletter or at bescience.org.uk Find Jessica Okoro LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter

Have you wondered what it would be like to start the career of your dreams sooner than later?   In this episode, Jessica Okoro is Stepping into STEM with David, an Accountancy apprentice at PwC. David shares his journey and experiences moving from Northern Island to London to follow his passion for Accountancy. Find PwC Association on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter or at www.pwc.co.uk Find BeScience STEM on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube, Twitter, Newsletter or at bescience.org.uk Find Jessica Okoro LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter

Have you wondered what an employer from a top company like Jaguar Land Rover is looking for in an employee?   In this episode, Jessica Okoro is Stepping into STEM with Anne-Marie Campion, who is the lead for Jaguar Land Rover on Early Careers across all programmes: graduates, undergraduates and apprentices. Anne-Marie has had a long career in Early Careers and has worked in various student recruitment roles at Deloitte, heading up the National Student Recruitment team for many years. Anne-Marie has also had a short spell in the HSBC Emerging Talent team and ran her own company for 9-years delivering assessor training courses. _________________ Find Jaguar Land Rover on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter or at jaguarlandrover.com Find BeScience STEM on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube, Twitter, Newsletter or at bescience.org.uk Find Jessica Okoro LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter

Have you wondered what it is like to study Neuroscience?   In this episode, Jessica Okoro is Stepping into STEM with Emma Soopramanien, a BSc Neuroscience Student and volunteer at The British Neuroscience Association (BNA). Emma shares her experiences volunteering at the BNA and shares the benefits and opportunities available at BNA. _________________ Find The British Neuroscience Association on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter or at www.bna.org.uk Find BeScience STEM on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube, Twitter, Newsletter or at bescience.org.uk Find Jessica Okoro LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter

Have you ever considered a graduate scheme in the Aerospace industry? In this episode, Jessica Okoro is Stepping into STEM with Isaac Alawode. Isaac was born and raised in West London and studied an MEng Aeronautical Engineering degree at the University of Brighton. From a young age, Isaac's hobbies were centred around sports, health and fitness, especially football. Isaac is currently working for Collins Aerospace, where he is approaching the end of a 3-year Leadership graduate scheme. _________________ Find Collins Aerospace Early Careers on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter or at Collinsaerospace.com Find BeScience STEM on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube, Twitter, Newsletter or at bescience.org.uk Find Jessica Okoro LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter

Do you have what it takes to become a Music Producer, medical doctor, astronaut, physiotherapist or ethical hacker? Have you had thoughts of becoming a Nanosystems engineer, or a Storm tracker or an Underwater Archeologist? Join Jessica Okoro, your host and founder of BeScience STEM, every Monday to hear the fascinating experiences of young people across the UK pursuing a career in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics).