Paul joined Jacobs UK via the STEM Returners Programme after struggling to return to industry after a career break through standard recruitment channels. Despite having a wealth of experience, Paul was routinely getting rejected for interview with little or no feedback.
Here is Paul’s story:
I started my Engineering career as a Graduate Highway Engineer in my hometown of Telford in 2002. I continued my development over the next 7 years before being appointed Senior Engineer in what was now Jacobs UK following an acquisition. At this point I project managed a team of Graduates and Technicians and was coming up to take my chartered review, having gained a varied experience of highway engineering.
In 2009 the opportunity to take over and grow the family storage and property business arose, along with relocating to rural Wales, an opportunity I felt I could not turn down. I spent the next 14 years increasing the size and income of the business. During this time I also did some work for a local Contractor whose main body of work was installing waste water treatment tanks. Now having a manager run the business has allowed me to look at getting back involved in work that I find challenging and rewarding, design on engineering projects.
I started by applying for roles I felt I would have even qualified for at the time of leaving the industry, after not even receiving any offers of interviews over 2-3 months it was clear that my career break was preventing me returning, this was even true when applying for of more junior roles. I then came across STEM Returners during an online search and after reading their website it sounded like it suited my situation perfectly, After applying online I was soon phoned by Natalie and applied for a hybrid Engineer role with Jacobs, my previous employer. Following an online interview I was offered a temporary 12 week contract as a Water Engineer. The Returner Support Specialist was particularly helpful during this process.
Although initially very daunting, especially the first few weeks working in a new sector, there was a lot of self doubt. After a few weeks I grew into my position, expanding my knowledge quickly working on different projects. During this period I also took the opportunity to utilise a mentor from the STEM Returners programme, I would meet online ever couple of weeks and they offered great insight into the tasks I needed to focus on, as well as listening to some of my feelings of self doubt. At the end of the 12 weeks I was very pleased when Jacobs offered me a permanent position, with a promotion to Senior Engineer.
Everyone at STEM Returners that I came in contact with was so helpful and encouraging, it really opened a door for me that I otherwise would not be possible, they also supply all the tools to support you like the mentoring programme. I would encourage anyone that has had a career break like I have to contact them, they got me back to my previous level within 3 months. So many people out there have experience and skills in STEM that needs just a quick refresh, so get in touch with a STEM advisor and believe in your abilities. I am so glad I did, thanks to all at STEM Returners.
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.