Tech companies bring a buzz to first STEM careers fair

The Fair on 22 February saw around 500 students – from first years to postgraduates – descending on Rubix where representatives from 25 different companies were waiting to meet them at their stands. These included Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ stand which showcased the range of exotic bodywork colours and finishes the company custom-makes for customers, and Gordon Murray Group which showed images of its latest supercar, the T.33.

Students from across engineering and the physical sciences were able to chat to representatives to find out more about their company and ask questions such as what they look for in employees, typical graduate salaries, and how to apply for a placement.

Ian Edwards, Production Manager, Interior Surface Centre at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Ltd said: "Thank you for hosting us yesterday. My team gave a very positive feedback and we have a long list of positively engaged students from Surrey. We will be in contact with a number of them shortly and hope to have at least seven into our business in July/August!"

Hedley Proctor, Senior Java Developer at ICE InsureTech, commented: "As a local firm who hire graduates each year, we found it really useful and had a lot of students sign up for our recruitment mailing list. We'll definitely attend again if it's held next year."

Dr Mark Baker of the School of Mechanical Engineering Sciences, who organised the Fair, says: “This was our first ever STEM Placements and Careers Fair. The STEM focus of the event generated a real tech buzz, with companies showing their latest cutting-edge designs and multifunctional products. The employers were busy talking to enthusiastic students for the full four hours, many saying how pleased they were with the level of engagement and interest of the students. The Fair was clearly a success for both employers and students looking for placements and graduate jobs.”