Chris joined Frazer-Nash Consultancy via the STEM Returners Programme in August 2023. After completing the programme, Chris was made permanent as a Technical Clerk.
How did you find out about the STEM Returners Programme?
I was applying for almost any job across a range of job searching websites and applied for a software developer role. Shortly after applying, I received a phone call, and the STEM Returners Programme was explained to me.
Tell us a little bit about your experience before joining the Programme?
I had never worked as a developer in the software development industry and chose to go back to university at the age of 30 to get my degree in computer network management and security. The intention was to get a job as a software developer but having done well in my degree, I ended up training to become a teacher. After spending seven years as a secondary school computer science teacher, I chose to leave the profession. Whilst there were definitely aspects of the role that I loved, and still miss, I was becoming less and less enamoured with the profession and found myself moving in the opposite direction to what I wanted to do – write code! Having been coding since childhood, I thought that I would walk out of teaching and into a developer role, but companies wanted 3+ years of experience in the industry, and teaching computer science apparently doesn’t pass muster, or they wanted you to be a recent graduate. This meant that I found it very challenging to get interviews, let alone job offers. That is what sets STEM Returners apart – they actively look to find roles that you will be good at, from employers who are willing to give you that opportunity.
Why did you apply for the Frazer-Nash Consultancy STEM Returners Programme Programme?
I wish I could say that I saw the advert and made a beeline for the job, but truthfully, I had been out of work for a long time, and I was desperate to find a software developer role. I was literally on my last round of applications and was already updating my teaching CV before I got a call from STEM Returners. I explained to the Returner Support Specialist that it was my passion, and they made magic happen.
How do you feel about the support offered by Frazer-Nash Consultancy as a company?
Frazer-Nash Consultancy has been absolutely amazing – from the very first interview to right now. They made allowances for my interview, as I couldn’t attend in-person, provided an advance so that I could fix my car prior to starting, and they have put me through amazing training programmes. The cherry on the cake, however, are the staff – each of whom have been fantastic. The company has several offices across the UK and staff from London, Gloucester, and Bristol came up to our office just to say welcome (I didn’t know this at the time, but it is encouraged so that new starters feel welcomed). I was given a “buddy” who I could ask questions of, but honestly, everyone is so approachable that it didn’t matter who I asked.
What has happened since joining the Programme?
Joining the programme really starts from that first phone call and having spoken with several “agents” from a few different job agencies, I wasn’t really expecting much. But, oh boy, was I mistaken! The Returner Support Specialist as a superstar and went above-and-beyond as far as I am concerned. STEM Returners reached out to Frazer-Nash to arrange the interview, even calling at the last minute to explain that my car had broken down and sorted an online interview. The Returner Support Specialist also explained that I was struggling financially and got Frazer-Nash to agree to an advance. I cannot thank them enough, because STEM Returners opened a door that has allowed me to join one of the best companies I have ever worked for.
I was initially on a six-month fixed-term contract, but despite this Frazer-Nash Consultancy has ensured that I have everything I need for my job, including putting me through some industry standard training courses, giving me a step up into the industry. Whilst this is really nice, the biggest benefit has been having the opportunity to work alongside some of the most intelligent and talented people I have ever known. For my first project, I was working alongside a project manager, who is half my age, but from whom I have learnt so much. I have been coding since I was eight years old and thirty-four years later I have again found my love of learning code.
Six months later, I have been offered a full-time position at Frazer-Nash Consultancy, have been promoted, and I am a part of an amazing team of highly skilled professionals who are also keen for me to succeed.
What advice would you give to someone trying to return from a career break?
It can often feel nerve wracking to step into a new role, or I would imagine, to step into a role that you used to do a while back. But taking that first step is crucial. You will have a fantastic team at STEM Returners, supporting you along the way. Not to mention the support you will get in your new role from the company, and the mentors.
If you would like to register your interest in joining a STEM Returners programme, please visit Returner Registration – STEM Returners or view our current programme opportunities here.