Black engineers and scientists to give a day for the next generation

BLACK ENGINEERS and scientists working in the capital are being asked to give a day of their time a year in London schools to inspire the next generation. The Engineering and Science Ambassadors campaign - run by the London Engineering Project (LEP) with the backing of the Royal Academy of Engineering - wants to encourage more black students to take engineering and science subjects, both at school and then university, by offering a range of role models who can talk passionately about their role and how they got there. The LEP is concerned that young black people in particular are missing out on the financial and career rewards of large London-based projects, such as the 2012 Olympics and redevelopment of the Thames Gateway, and that the capital is missing out on a huge talent pool.

Supporting the campaign is Patrick Clarke, the only black director working for EDF Energy, who served an electrical apprenticeship before embarking on a management career. He says, 'Individuals can have an enormous impact on the choices students make. Students tell us that the careers advice they really value is someone taking the time to tell them what they do for a living and how they got there. Some people have connected with the building blocks of my life and have been inspired. I know that there are many other professionals out there who could inspire our young people and I would urge them to come forward.'

Any working engineer or scientist interested in getting involved should contact email: contactus@thelep.org.uk or call 020 7717 1670 or visit the website at www.thelep.org.uk

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