EDF launches second returner programme at Hinkley Point C to help STEM professionals get back to work after a career break
EDF and STEM Returners have joined forces again to launch a second programme across its Nuclear business to continue their drive to help STEM professionals return to work after a career break.
The new programme follows a successful scheme at Hinkley Point C and Nuclear Services last year, which helped nine people successfully return to the workplace.
EDF is leading the UK’s nuclear renaissance with the construction of a new nuclear power station at Hinkley Point C in Somerset, providing low-carbon electricity and power to around 6 million homes.
At EDF they recognise that success is a personal thing and that it means different things to different people. That’s why EDF are partnering with us for a second year and supporting individuals to return to the workplace and continuing to develop a career that’s unique to them.
The new programme will initially include roles at Hinkley Point C and Nuclear Services, expanding to other roles across the EDF Nuclear Family. Up to 12 roles will be available in engineering, quality, procurement, spares, maintenance, commissioning, electrical, mechanical and project management.
STEM Returners will source candidates for the EDF programme and provide career coaching and mentoring. Annual research from STEM Returners (The STEM Returners Index) shows the challenges people face when trying to return to work, following a career break with recruitment bias being the main barrier to entry. The STEM Returners programme acts as a ‘returnship’, supporting experienced engineers back into industry following a career break, allowing them to be re-integrated into an inclusive environment.
Osi, now a Project Quality Engineer at EDF, took a break to reassess his career and build new skills. When he was ready to return, he knew he wanted to make a difference in people’s lives. Even though his break lasted for just a year, it wasn’t an easy return.
“The primary challenge I faced was the gap in my employment history due to my career break,” he explained. “I was eager to return to the industry because of my passion for quality management and process optimisation. I wanted to contribute my experience to projects that have a lasting impact. The opportunity to work on the Hinkley Point C nuclear project, the largest infrastructure project in the UK, was a compelling reason to return and make a significant contribution to the UK’s energy future.
“STEM Returners provided crucial support through coaching, networking, and the chance to work with top-tier companies. Their structured programme boosted my confidence and allowed me to re-enter the workplace while receiving the guidance and mentorship needed to ensure my success.”
Natalie Desty, Director of STEM Returners said: “Sadly, there is a misconception that a career break leads to a deterioration of skills, but that isn’t true. Osi is a great example of someone who takes a break and builds their skills while away from work, which would benefit their new employer.
“We are delighted to be continuing our partnership with EDF, who recognise that success is a personal thing and that it means different things to different people. Only by partnering with industry leaders like EDF, will we make vital changes in STEM recruitment practices, to support individuals to return to the workplace and continuing to develop a career that’s unique to them.”
Kate, a reporting manager at EDF, said: “Having a STEM Returner join our small team was invaluable. I am really glad that I could be part of finding a full-time role for her. She was an asset and will be a great boost for the project.
Robin, Head of Digital Portfolio Delivery at EDF, said: “I would encourage anyone to get involved with STEM Returners as an initiative. The entire experience was uplifting and rewarding as a leader. Just the act of meeting motivated people with a real drive and motivation to try something new and put themselves out of their comfort zone was reaffirming.
Since STEM Returners launched in 2017, 600 professionals have joined programmes across the UK. To view STEM Returners vacancies, visit https://stemreturners.com/live-programmes/
