Alternative Approaches to building a STEM Career

By Oliwia

When considering your future career and academic progression, most of us think of the traditional route of sixth form/college followed by either university or, more recently, degree apprenticeships. Although we acknowledge all the benefits of these, it is important to consider all of your options, especially considering that in recent times there has been such a broadening and expansion of opportunities. As for post-18 options, here are some main ones that are extremely useful for building careers in STEM fields, particularly in sectors like civil engineering, renewable energy, data engineering, and much more:

Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs)

Can take the form of diplomas, certificates, or degrees.

Vocational Technical Qualifications (VTQs)

16+, provide you with practical experience for specific industries, over 2000+ courses available.

Free Courses for Jobs

State-funded courses, especially made available to those with fewer qualifications.

Skills Bootcamps

Government-funded courses that build a new skill set and can expand on your current career.

What Next?

We recommend that you browse through the thousands of options available to you, and narrow it down to a few programs which are most feasible, accessible, and suit you the most. The next step in career progression is to secure a place on the course—having looked through the requirements, most require the standard elements of CVs, online applications, and interviews. At this stage, it is also important to note any preliminary qualifications that are required of you; this is precisely why it is better to keep your options open by selecting a few choices and keeping an open mind.

Other crucial elements of your career-building portfolio are work experiences, shadowing, and internship opportunities; acquiring these alongside professional qualifications will boost your career prospects in the long term. They not only exhibit your interest to prospective employers, but they could also help you establish a network, make new connections in the industry, and, crucially, learn new skills. Gaining experience specific to your niche is essential to entering the field; this is why we recommend that you check out the work experience that is currently on offer on our opportunities page [LINK].