Physicist and TV star, Professor Brian Cox, says careers in science are not just reserved for "boffins".
The star of the hit BBC series "Wonders of...", Professor Brian Cox, wants to encourage more people to consider careers in science and engineering. As part of the Institute of Engineering and Technology's Engineering Open House Day, Professor Cox said he was annoyed at perceptions of science as "boring or only for boffins".
Only last month the UK Commission for Employment and Skills (UKCES) published results which show a shortage of suitably skilled graduates. The report found 43% of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), were unable to be filled due to a lack of competent applicants.
Professor Cox says parents and children need to see the wide range of applications of science and engineering careers.
"I think it's really important that young kids and their parents can get an insight into what engineering is all about - and understand its connection with so many things that interest them like music, entertainment and space discovery."
Naomi Climer, the President of the Institute of Engineering and Technology, says parents also need support.
"Some parents have told us they do not feel equipped with enough knowledge and this plays a part in why kids are not encouraged at home about science and engineering jobs. We have to change that."
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