News / STEM

Airbus launches ‘returnship’ pilot project

By Betty Woolerton  Monday Mar 28, 2022

A new partnership between Airbus and STEM Returners has been announced – aiming to help engineers get back to work after a career break.

Research from STEM Returners found that people who have gaps in their career often face challenges when they return to work, such as through recruitment bias.

The collaboration between the two companies hopes to tackle head-on by providing a programme that reintegrates them into STEM.

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Acting as a ‘returnship’, the 12-week paid scheme will take the form of roles as engineers and an installation designer at the aircraft manufacturer.

The pilot project is taking place at Airbus’ sites in Bristol and near Chester. Successful candidates may be offered full-time positions at Airbus upon completing the programme.

Airbus’ base in Bristol is in Filton – photo: Airbus

Natalie Desty (pictured above), director of STEM Returners, said: “We are delighted to begin a new working relationship with Airbus, a leading aircraft manufacture.

“There is a known shortage of skills across STEM industries so to see a company like Airbus take advantage of a pool of skilled, dedicated and talented professionals is very positive.

“Only by working with leaders like Airbus, will we make vital changes in STEM recruitment practices, to help those who are finding it challenging to return to the sector and improve diversity and inclusion.”

About the new project, a spokesperson for Airbus said: “Airbus is delighted to be working with STEM Returners and recognise the need to attract people with diverse and varied experience.

“We understand that there can be barriers for returners to re-enter the STEM workplace and we want to engage with people who may not have considered applying for a role with Airbus.

To view the placements offered by STEM Returners, visit: www.stemreturners.com/returner-placements

Main photo: STEM Returners

Read more: Bristol University launches new startup accelerator 

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