About Engineering a Sustainable Energy Supply
The Engineering a Sustainable Energy Supply (EASES) project is a careers education project developed by the careers education charity 4wardFutures.
The overall aim of the EASES project was to work with 10 to 15 engineers through a series of in person and online workshops to co-design and co-deliver in person and online workshops that would inform and inspire up to 350 young people aged 8 to 11, from groups that are currently underrepresented in engineering, about the work of engineers in designing and developing sustainable energy generation and supply systems.
Through taking part in the project, the aim was that engineers would feel more confident and motivated about taking part in public engagement activities and better understand of the positive impact their engagement with young people can have.
A further aim of the project was that young people would have a better understanding of the work engineers are doing to develop sustainable energy supplies and a more positive attitude towards engineering and towards considering a career in engineering
Key outcomes
100% of the 15 engineers 4FC worked with from Progressive Energy, UKAEA, Wall Lag and C&C, found the project enjoyable; interesting and informative and 87% said they are more interested in public engagement through taking part in this project. Several engineers noted improvements in their communication skills such as “A greater ability to discuss science and relevant project topics while dealing with questions that are not typical” and “I have personally gained some practice in public speaking and answering unexpected questions.”
Key lessons learned from the project were:
- Allow more time for engineers recruitment at the start and throughout the project.
- Allow more time for project staff travel if engineers have a wide geographical spread.
- Clarify the schedule for the workshops and the completion date for the project with schools.
- Enhance career relevance through strengthening the connection between the project activities and career paths in engineering.
- Implement explicit skill-building frameworks and reflection activities.
- Develop follow-up activities to maintain engagement beyond the initial project.
- Further emphasise real-world impacts of engineering.
- Provide pre-workshop materials for teachers.
