Inspiring the workforce of the future: Students get hands-on STEM experience with Commercial

Commercial partners with Balcarras School to showcase real-world careers in tech and sustainability

A group of Year 10 students from Balcarras School got a first-hand look into the world of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) during a week-long work experience programme with Commercial.

Swapping the  classroom for Commercial’s new Centre of Excellence, Chris, Evelina and Leo explored a wide range of career paths in cutting-edge technology. Experiencing roles from IT and AI to sustainability consultancy and green innovation.

A key focus of the programme was to highlight the opportunities available to young women in STEM.

Throughout the week, students heard from female professionals working across the business. That included colleagues Commercial’s Network Operations Centre and Business Services teams – who shared their personal journeys and career insights.

“We were thrilled to welcome this group of young students from Balcarras,” said Simone Hindmarch, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Commercial.

“By offering real job insights and hands-on experiences, we hope to inspire these future professionals to consider the diverse opportunities within STEM.

“University is one path – but not the only one. We want students to feel empowered to explore.

Despite recent progress, only 29% of STEM roles in the UK are held by women. While just 31% of STEM students in higher education are female. Commercial’s new Women in Tech programme aims to address this imbalance by showcasing real, relatable career stories.

The students also gained exposure to the fast-evolving fields of Smart Technology, Artificial Intelligence, and Sustainability Consultancy. All of which are shaping the future of businesses across the world.

Dominic Burke, Headteacher of Balcarras School said: “This scheme offers our students a unique opportunity to see how exciting and wide-ranging STEM careers can be.

“We value collaboration with local businesses, and this partnership with Commercial brings that to life in a powerful way.”