We work with a range of inclusion partners to support underrepresented groups and drive long-term change across STEM industries.
Working Together for Change
At STEM Returners, we collaborate with a network of organisations that are leading the way in diversity, equity, and inclusion across STEM and related industries.
These supporters bring specialist knowledge, lived experience, and sector-specific insight that help shape and strengthen our programmes. Their input ensures we address real-world barriers faced by returners and deliver solutions that support underrepresented professionals into meaningful careers.
Through shared campaigns, research, and advocacy, we work together to create measurable, long-term change across the workforce.

Meet those helping us break down barriers in STEM

Enginuity is a charity dedicated to closing the skills gaps in the UK’s engineering and manufacturing sector. Their mission is to empower businesses with the data, insights, and tools they need to thrive in our ever-evolving sector.

The Women’s Engineering Society (WES) supports women in engineering and allied disciplines through mentoring, events, and public engagement. They collaborate with industry and education partners to promote diversity and tackle barriers to entry and progression.

Association for Black & Minority Ethnic Engineers (AFBE-UK) advocates for higher participation of Black and Minority Ethnic professionals in engineering. Their programmes focus on mentoring, education, and career development across the sector.

Neurodiversity in Business (NiB) is an industry forum designed to support the inclusion of neurodivergent people in the workplace. By bringing together employers, experts, and neurodivergent individuals, NiB promotes awareness, inclusive hiring, and best practices.

Inclusion and Diversity in Nuclear (IDN) is an organisation focused on improving inclusion, equity, and diversity in the UK’s nuclear sector. They bring industry organisations together to share ideas, drive accountability, advise on strategies, and support real, measurable change.

Make UK Defence is a national trade association championing the UK’s defence manufacturing and supply chain. They support innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth across the sector, helping businesses build a stronger, more diverse workforce.

Breaking Barriers is a UK charity that supports refugees in rebuilding their careers. They work directly with employers to create inclusive pathways into meaningful work, offering advice, training, and opportunities that help refugees restart their careers and thrive in the UK workforce.

Founded in 1922, The Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) is the UK-based and internationally recognised qualifying body and learned society for chemical, biochemical and process engineers. They exist to advance chemical engineering’s contribution for the benefit of society.

The Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) is a UK-based, global membership organisation that supports and represents mechanical engineers across industries. It focuses on developing engineering knowledge, setting professional standards, and driving progress across key industries.

The Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) is the employer-led skills, standards and qualifications body for the development of the engineering construction workforce of Great Britain. An arms-length body of the UK Government, the ECITB reports to the Department for Education.

The Global Underwater Hub (GUH) is a leading trade and industry development body for the UK’s underwater sectors. It supports companies operating in energy, defence, and marine science, helping them drive innovation, grow exports, and strengthen the UK’s global position in underwater technology.

Springboard is a UK charity focused on building a strong talent pipeline for the hospitality and tourism industry. It promotes the sector as a rewarding career choice and helps over 5,000 people each year into work by providing training, support, and access to sustainable job opportunities.

UKNEST brings together key stakeholders in the UK naval enterprise to support innovation, collaboration, and skills development. It works across industry, academia, and government to strengthen the UK’s naval engineering and science capabilities.

Forces Families Jobs is a free platform that connects employers with service families seeking flexible and sustainable careers. It supports spouses, partners, and family members of UK Armed Forces personnel with job listings, training, and career advice.

ADS Group is the UK trade association for aerospace, defence, security, and space. It supports member companies through policy advocacy, industry events, and initiatives that drive innovation, exports, and sustainable growth.
Partner with us
If your organisation is serious about improving inclusion and tackling skills gaps, we can help. Our supporters and partners play a key role in delivering real change across STEM industries.
Contact us to find out how you can support returners, build a more diverse workforce, and become part of our growing network.