STEM graduate Akbar always had a passion for engineering, so it was a lifelong ambition ticked off when he achieved his Mechanical Engineering master’s in 2020.

Graduating from Glasgow Caledonian University – where he was heavily involved in extracurricular activities such as boxing and football – Akbar immediately tried to enter employment in his chosen engineering field, this is where he encountered some very familiar barriers.

“When applying for roles, I found it very difficult to even get my foot in the door.

“I had very little experience and it was not enough to gain me any points in interviews or application processes.”

Instead of taking the next step in his engineering journey, Akbar was forced to look for alternative employment in the banking sector to cover the cost of living.

“I worked for Lloyd’s banking group within their collections department, which proved to be a big challenge for me. It was totally different to everything I had learned and focussed on for the previous five years.”

Working in a different sector didn’t dampen Akbar’s aspirations to become a mechanical engineer. Although he continued to apply through the standard channels that had repeatedly let him down, Akbar’s breakthrough came courtesy of a STEM Returners programme with BAE Systems.

“I decided to approach (STEM Returners) as I have heard great things about how supportive they are at helping individuals such as myself return to a STEM related career!

“I needed help in trying to break down the barriers and start off my career in engineering. Reading all the great work and stories had solidified my choice to turn to a returners’ programme.”

Prior to being accepted into the returnship, Akbar was supported by the STEM Returners team throughout the application process.

“I was helped greatly by being walked through the application process. The team assisted me as much as possible, pointing out any career opportunities that I may have not thought about before and highlighting the pros and cons with each.

“They took care of all communications with the company whilst keeping me up to date throughout the entire process.

“When it came to the interview stage, STEM Returners helped me by identifying the engineers who would be taking my interview and advised where I could seek extra revision on these individuals and about the role itself.

“This was a totally unique and modern approach which I thought was highly effective. The whole process was extremely smooth start to finish!”

After an impressive interview, Akbar was given a place on the returners programme within BAE Systems Maritime Division.

“After the placement I took a position with BAE systems as a detail designer. The role isn’t actually the original one I wanted; however, this is exactly what I love to be doing and the fact that STEM Returners had identified that very early on is absolutely fantastic. I could not be happier with my choice and the help I received.”

Graduates with the right skills shouldn’t fall through the gaps that standard channels can create. Looking back on his journey, Akbar shared his joy at getting his career back on track.

“This has kick started my career in engineering with a role I could only dream of. Every day feels like a hobby and not a chore, I have enjoyed it so much and I am extremely thankful to STEM for pointing me in this direction.

“The advice I would give to returners would be always keep your options open. If the job you want doesn’t work out, discuss with STEM Returners as they have an incredible number of options available all across the UK. Be open minded and you just never where the future could take you!”