The Rockwell Automation Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) initiative for senior schoolchildren made its South African début at Emperors Palace in May this year. The intention was to give STEM learners’ insight into real world technology and engineering applications.
Rockwell Automation's Christo Buys addresses learners at the introductory STEM initiative in South Africa.
Sixty students from two schools, St Peter’s College in Johannesburg and Hoërskool Eldoraigne in Centurion, were exposed to Rockwell Automation technologies and their applicability in various relatable industries. It was highlighted to the young delegates that everyday technologies used by most people, such as smartphones and tablets, are used in industry in similar ways. “We want learners to get a taste of the kind of work and roles which this industry offers, and what it would be like to work for a company like Rockwell Automation,” explained Kerry Meikle-Braes, HR manager, sub-Saharan Africa, Rockwell Automation.
“We hope to create awareness and excitement of both the industry and our company among school-goers,” she added. “We also hope to convince some of them to enter into tertiary studies that may one day result in them working for Rockwell Automation, or in the technology space in which we operate.”
The focus on STEM programmes is a Rockwell Automation global initiative for broad-based support to address the critical need to fill STEM jobs that drive innovation. Since 2006, the multinational has provided more than $15 million to address this need.
“Exposing students to a detailed insight of the practical application of STEM subjects to technology and engineering, and at an age young enough to influence their career choice, is a primary focus of this programme,” concluded Meikle-Braes. “This was Rockwell Automation sub-Saharan Africa’s first STEM initiative and more will follow as we drive our global focus on STEM in the sub-continent. Importantly, in South Africa, we will also direct our efforts towards initiatives that encourage women in STEM jobs.”
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