The Northern Ireland Science Festival, which takes place this month from 17-27 February, is to feature the Matrix and Pulsar sponsored event “I ❤️ My STEM Career”, during which comedian and international award-winning science communicator, Emer Maguire will chat to a host of local STEM professionals, finding out why they love what they do and highlighting lots of exciting STEM-focused career opportunities and pathways for teenagers and young people in NI.
This event, organised by Startacus, will showcase that existing talent in the NI STEM economy as schools, and further education providers are encouraged to register for the event that will be live streamed from The Nerve Centre in Derry~Londonderry and Ormeau Baths in Belfast on the 21st and 22nd February respectively.
Mary McKenna, Deputy Chair of Matrix and a member of the Pulsar steering group said
“Matrix and Pulsar are delighted to support this event at the NI Science Festival. Matrix’ role is to advocate for science and technology as a primary driver of the NI economy and, in line with DfE’s 10X vision, STEM industries are key to delivering for individuals, industry and wider society.
“We hope that by showcasing the diverse array of talent and the range of career opportunities available that this event will inspire young people to consider a STEM career and be part of that high-technology future”
Pulsar is the Northern Ireland Women in STEM Hub and aims to address the gender imbalance in STEM jobs and encourage more girls to study core STEM subjects. Pulsar also has resources for businesses, students, parents, entrepreneurs and STEM professionals and the Pulsar website promotes NI STEM role models and supporting organisations, as well as bringing together NI STEM events, resources and reports.
Pulsar was established after the Matrix Women in STEM report was published in 2018. Amongst its recommendations was the need to promote awareness of STEM careers, particularly the promotion of STEM Role Models to children, parents, subject teachers and careers teachers – at all levels: primary, secondary and tertiary.