Herts researchers join forces to help local residents discover the power of STEM

‘Your Skills, Your Future’ is taking place from 2–4pm on Thursday 30 October at StevenageArts and Leisure Centre, is a free event designed to showcase the wide range of STEM opportunities available in the region. It forms part of the Festival of Social Science 2025, a nationwide celebration of how social science research helps us better understand and improve society.

Aimed at anyone with an interest in STEM subjects – especially those considering a future in the field - attendees will be able to engage with interactive exhibits, hands-on STEM activities, and support services for both young people and adults. They will also have the opportunity to speak directly with local employers, including Airbus and the Institution of Engineering and Technology, who will be on hand to share insights into STEM careers and answer questions about pathways into the sector.

For younger visitors, Mad Science will be delivering fun and engaging science experiences – including the chance to make your own slime – ensuring the event is both educational and entertaining for all ages.

A key highlight of Your Skills, Your Future is the celebration of the Pioneering Young STEM Futures programme, a flagship initiative by Stevenage Borough Council aimed at creating meaningful opportunities for young people. All organisations involved in the programme will be present, showcasing their work and the impact they’ve made in the community.

Dr Chris Nicholas, Senior Lecturer in Strategic Management at the University of Hertfordshire, will also be attending alongside his team – fellow Senior Lecturer in Strategic Management Dr Dennis Badeen, Lecturer in Strategic Management Konstantinos Athanasiadis and their PhD student Carey Leach - to share findings from their evaluation of the Council’s enterprise and skills agenda. The research, funded by the University’s Policy Support Fund, identified the need to celebrate the success of the Young STEM Futures programme and strengthen collaboration between organisations to diversify opportunities for young people.

“This event is a direct response to our findings,” said Dr Nicholas. “By bringing together programme providers, employers, and educators in one space, we’re helping to build stronger networks and ensure young people can see the full range of possibilities available to them.”

A Stevenage Borough Council spokesperson added:“STEM is a crucial part of Stevenage’s local economy, and events like Your Skills, Your Future are a fantastic opportunity to highlight the jobs available and get more people interested in STEM careers.

“We know that often there is a lack of awareness of STEM careers and persisting stereotypes around the jobs being too difficult or only for people with certain qualifications. At this event, you will be able to hear first-hand from professionals in STEM roles and the different pathways they have taken to get there.”

Your Skills, Your Future is just one of several activities the University of Hertfordshire is delivering as part of the Festival of Social Science 2025. Other events include a circus-inspired pop-up at The Juggle Hub in the Howard Centre, Welwyn, on 30–31 October, which explores the challenges of modern working life through interactive performances and discussions. The University is also hosting a series of online events covering topics such as digital inclusion, youth empowerment, tech and AI, business basics, and community wellbeing.

See the event listing on the Festival of Social Science website for more information, or for a full programme of events, see the University of Hertfordshire section.