23 year-old Mohammed Seth found his route into his dream engineering role a difficult one. His consistent setbacks are reminiscent of so many barriers that BAME engineers face in the recruitment process. Here is his story.
STEM RETURNERS: Hi Mohammed, Tell us about yourself!
“I’m Mohammed Seth, I’m 23 from Preston, Lancashire and I am a Learning Development Engineer with BAE Systems Air Division.”
What is your working background?
“I graduated 2 years ago with a First Class Degree in Energy Engineering from the University Of Central Lancashire. I then went onto complete a 12 month placement for Jaguar Land Rover. I was working as part of the Launch team for the New Range Rover Evoque. After my 12 months placement, I went back into Education to pursue a PGCE in Secondary Mathematics. I obtained my QTS with PGCE. Thereafter, I started working at BAE Systems in my current role.”
How did you find out about STEM returners and what were your initial thoughts?
“I found STEM Returners on Indeed whilst looking for Engineering Jobs around the Preston area. When I first saw the ad, I was very surprised as it seemed like a very straight forward process in which you go for an interview, followed by a 3 month placement, then potentially a permanent role.”
“I thought this was too good to be true as I had been completing vigorous online tests for all other roles I was applying for. Nevertheless, I applied!”
Had you previously faced any barriers when applying for engineering roles?
“I have always wanted to stay local. Hence, BAE Systems was always my dream organisation to work for.
“I had been applying for different roles over 4 years consecutively, completing the online tests and even passing those; however, I never seemed to get through to the next stage.”
What did STEM returners do to help?
“STEM Returners were brilliant! A representative called me upon receipt of my CV and discussed with me the type of roles I was looking for. Although, it took a while to get an interview.”
“I was very lucky to complete my interview before the first Covid-19 lockdown in March. STEM Returners were very transparent in the process and provided me a response from the interview the very next day.”
What was the end result of your programme?
“I was offered a role in the training team where we develop training material and deliver it to worldwide customers. I was absolutely thrilled to be offered the job.”
How did you find your placement at BAE Systems, and what was the most enjoyable part?
“The placement experience was brilliant.
My team members were also very accommodating. I have learnt a lot during these past 2 months and I am still learning something new everyday!”
Do you want to bypass outdated recruitment methods and re-launch your STEM career? Apply now for our latest programmes, running across the UK!