On Friday 6th March, our Women in STEM (WiSTEM) network proudly hosted its first-ever FutureHER event at High Pavement campus, welcoming students to an afternoon of inspiration, practical learning, and community-building ahead of International Women’s Day (8th March).
The pilot event brought together aspiring young women interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) with industry professionals, digital innovators, experienced educators, and the Lord Mayor of Nottingham; Councillor Patience Ifediora, who attended to show her support for encouraging more young women into STEM careers. Through talks, networking, career advice and workshops, FutureHER aimed to break down barriers and demonstrate that STEM is a space where everyone belongs.
Throughout the bustling afternoon, students took part in a series of drop-in workshops, including sessions on Power Automate, virtual reality and immersive technologies, MakeCode programming, Canva image creation, and Microsoft Copilot for video production. These hands-on activities gave participants the chance to explore new tools, experiment with ideas, and develop practical skills in a supportive environment.
The successful day culminated in an inspirational closing speech by our CEO and Principal, Janet Smith. Students left the event with new contacts, new skills, and renewed inspiration, along with goody bags to mark the occasion.
Events like FutureHER play a crucial role in highlighting the need for greater gender equality across STEM fields, where women remain significantly underrepresented. By giving young women the chance to engage directly with technologies, meet female professionals, and see real examples of success, the event helps to challenge outdated perceptions and show that STEM pathways are open to everyone.
FutureHER was brought to life by the College’s Women in STEM (WiSTEM) Network, led by Digital & Innovation Coach Kate Whyles and Head of Student Experience – Highfields campus, Sue Stack.
Kate Whyles explained:
“Events like this are vital, not just in recognition of International Women’s Day, but because representation and visibility truly matter. Hearing stories that reflect "someone just like me did that!" and "I can see a place for me here" can have a profound impact and shape the next steps for our students, and that is precisely what FutureHer aims to achieve.”
Emma in second year of manufacturing engineering and is the only girl on her course, she said:
“I’m currently trying to figure out what’s next in my career, and an event like this has been so valuable. The talk was great, everyone’s answers on the panel were so personal and authentic and it was great to learn about their experiences. It’s great to know that there are other women out there that are having similar experiences yet are doing so well. Today felt like a real community.”
