A role model is anyone working, training or studying in science, technology, engineering or maths (STEM), and they come from all industries. Quite simply, anyone wishing to inspire more people to take up or continue a career in STEM.

The Role Model's Database is a great way for young people to learn more about what engineers do, how they got to where they are, and the possibilities that exist along the way. Because research has shown that people are more likely to be inspired by, and more likely to believe someone who closely resembles them, the Engineering and Technology Board (ETB) role model programme aims to provide a comprehensive database of people working across the science, technology, engineering and maths spectrum.

You can search the database in a number of ways, making sure that you find the type of people you’re looking for. Please click here to search the database.

By browsing the database you’ll find leading engineers in all fields.

Lewys is a Materials Science student in his third year at Oxford University. He attended a Headstart course in 2002 before choosing to apply to study Materials. He is keen to help more young people see how Material Science is key to everyday life and why it’s worth studying.

“I have been interested in hands-on science since I was young studying Design Technology. It was my AS Physics teacher who suggested that I apply for a Headstart course. I had not heard of then before and I thought why not, if he is suggesting it then I guess it’s worth a try. I will always be grateful to that teacher  because after experiencing university life and Materials Science for one week, I knew straight away exactly what I was going to apply for.”

“I have been at Oxford for two years now studying Materials and it is great. It allows me to follow my interest in real world, hands-on science and continues to open up new ideas and possibilities to me. Recently I have assisted with
both Headstart and Smallpiece courses and I think that helping give the gift of experience to young people is extremely rewarding.”

To find out more about Headstart and Smallpeice courses please click here.

To find out more about the Smallpeice Trust please click here.

To find out more about the Engineering and Technology Board (ETB) please click here.