SLR Consulting has launched a second wave of its returners programme to continue drive to support environmental professionals back into the STEM industry, including renewable energy.
Last year, the global environmental and advisory consultancy firm offered a STEM Returners programme at their sites in Bristol, Nottingham, Exeter and London.
The programme was so successful, the firm has launched another programme with four new roles including opportunities within their geotechnical engineering and also hydrology & hydrogeology teams.
Jack Bayliss (pictured) was one of the returners on the first programme.
For four years, Jack worked in the mineral exploration industry, travelling the world for long periods of time, and often working in remote places.
He enjoyed his work and spending time on drill sites, completing geophysics surveys, and mapping vast areas of land.
However, the birth of his son changed his priorities and he started to look for a role at home, but unfortunately in an industry that does not really exist in the UK.
However, the programme at SLR Consulting allowed him to transfer his expertise and valuable skills to a new sector and his has been able to contribute to a range of projects; from offshore wind, to quarry development, and mineral extraction.
He explained: “The thought of having to ‘start over’ in a new industry is daunting.
“This programme gave me the opportunity to expand my skillset and diversify my knowledge in an area different to my previous experience, whilst appreciating the skills I can offer.
“Within the STEM industries, this is relatively uncommon.
“It has also given me the unique opportunity to make a positive difference and ‘make sustainability happen’, while accessing leading technology and learn from industry experts.”
The new 12-week, paid, STEM Returners programme at SLR Consulting, is open to people who have had a career break and acts as a ‘returnship’ allowing candidates to be reintegrated into an inclusive environment upon their return to STEM.
STEM Returners sources the candidates and provides them with additional support including advice, career coaching, and mentoring; ensuring applicants are ready and confident to return to work.
Natalie Desty, director of STEM Returners, said: “STEM professionals like Jack, have valuable experience and knowledge that will benefit any employer.
“Yet, a gap on their CV, of any length, means they face an uphill battle when trying to return after time away from the industry.
“We are very proud to continue working with SLR Consulting to provide more opportunities for highly skilled people to return to STEM.
“Only by partnering with industry leaders like SLR, will we make vital changes in recruitment practices, to help those who are finding it challenging to return to the sector and improve diversity and inclusion.”