Cogent has successfully secured funding from the UK Commission for Employment and Skills (UKCES) to tackle the gender imbalance in the STEM industries. There are currently six times more men than women working in the science industries and only 10% of STEM managers are women.  

By introducing women into the science industries through Traineeships, Apprenticeships or the Industry Degree Scheme, they will gain an insight into the variety of roles available, breaking down the barriers to employment in non-traditional roles. Employers will be offered £1,000 per learner as an incentive to recruit a new female member of staff.

Employers are also being encouraged to review skills gaps in their business, and where there is a progression opportunity identified among female staff, funding is available to cover up to 50% of the training costs (up to a maximum of £500).

Julie Kenny CBE DL, Chair and Chief Executive of Pyronix Ltd and Secure Holdings Ltd, and a Commissioner for UKCES, said: “It’s important for the future of UK plc that women have the rights and equal opportunities, particularly in areas where the gender imbalance is so extreme, such as the science industries. We need to instil more confidence in young women to show them that there are no barriers to them progressing within this, or any industry. This funding from UKCES will help to achieve that.”

If you would like more information about how to support the EIF Women into STEM scheme please contact [email protected]