When I was in primary school, my friends and I dreamed of becoming doctors, teachers, explorers, or performers - ambitions full of adventure and excitement. But engineers? That was rarely on the list. Yet, as we look to the future, engineering and other STEM fields offer some of the most impactful and rewarding career paths. So, how do we change the narrative and inspire our next generation to embrace the endless possibilities these disciplines offer?
Over the past couple of decades, we’ve seen more of an urgent need for problem-solvers, innovators, and critical thinkers. Engineering Education is central to addressing global challenges, from combating climate change to building sustainable communities. Yet, as we face a growing demand for these skills, many young people are still unaware of the incredible opportunities engineering careers can offer.
As a Civil Engineer with over 15 years in the industry and a Fellow of Engineers Ireland, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of engineering. It's about shaping the spaces where we live and work, protecting the most vulnerable from economic, societal, and climatic change, and influencing the design and functionality of our world for generations to come.
Encouraging more children to explore engineering is about much more than filling future job vacancies. It’s about equipping young people with the tools to think critically, innovate creatively, and tackle the challenges of tomorrow.
STEM is where creativity meets practicality, where big ideas become reality. Getting into engineering is a way to make a tangible difference in the world. Whether it’s designing clean energy systems, developing medical technologies, or creating safer, more resilient infrastructure, the work we do shapes lives and communities.
Despite this, there remains a significant skills gap in these fields. Northern Ireland, like many regions, faces a shortage of qualified professionals in STEM industries. This isn’t just a workforce issue; it’s an economic, societal and environmental challenge.
This is why initiatives like Engineers Week are so vital. Engineers Week 2025, running from 1st to 7th March, is designed to engage and inspire children across Northern Ireland, introducing them to the world of engineering through hands-on activities, real-world engineering challenges, and industry collaboration.
Last year’s inaugural event in the Northern Region was a huge success, with over 500 pupils across NI participating in workshops, site visits, and interactive projects like the Big Bridge Challenge. For many, it was their first glimpse into what a career in engineering could look like. This year, we aim to reach even more children, helping them see that engineering is not only accessible but also exciting and deeply rewarding.
By involving industry partners, we’re showcasing what engineers do best – coming together as one team to address our biggest challenges. This time, we’re connecting young people with role models and real-world examples of engineering in action and these experiences are powerful. They show children that they, too, can solve big problems, dream big, and make a difference to where they live.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this work is breaking down barriers to entry in STEM fields. Too often, young school-children especially, believe that subjects like science, maths or technology are “too hard” or “not for people like me.” These misconceptions hold back incredible potential.
As a mentor in the 2025 Centre of Learning Mentoring Programme, run by Women in Business NI, I’ll have the chance to support individuals on their professional journeys. This programme, like Engineers Week, is about showing people what’s possible. It’s about providing the encouragement and resources they need to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances.
The same principles apply when working with children. These careers are for everyone - boys, girls, students from rural communities, and cities alike. Diversity in STEM brings fresh perspectives, new ideas, and innovative solutions.
Northern Ireland has an incredible history in Engineering and ample more opportunities to continue to be a world leader in engineering innovation, but it starts with, and crucially sustained by, inspiring our young people. Engineers Week 2025 is a real move to ignite curiosity, build confidence, and create pathways to success.
If you’re an educator, a parent, or an industry professional, I urge you to get involved. Support initiatives like Engineers Week, advocate for engineering education, and share your own experiences with young people.
Engineering isn’t just about careers; it’s about empowering children to see their potential, to know they can shape the world around them, and to believe that their ideas and skills matter. That’s why I volunteer, and that’s why I’m passionate about driving Engineers Week forward.
To find out more about Engineers Week 2025, follow Engineers Ireland Northern Region on LinkedIn
By Clare Morris, Engineers Ireland Northern Region Committee Member
