Inspiring future engineers at STEMFest Sunderland

A leading motion and control technologies company engaged with young minds at a major STEM event in Sunderland last week.

Parker Hannifin’s teams from County Durham and Gateshead participated in STEMFest Sunderland from October 8 to October 10, where they showcased filtration technology and ran interactive activities for 3,000 students aged 9-13, covering a range of sectors including space, sports, e-sports, technology, energy and manufacturing.

Alison Rishworth, division HR manager at Parker Bioscience Filtration in Durham, said: “We’re very proud to have contributed to STEMFest Sunderland this month.

“Parker is firmly committed to STEM education and engaging with local communities, and our attendance over the past three years demonstrates this.

“Through exhibiting at STEMFest and hosting school visits at our sites, we’re raising awareness of the exciting career opportunities available within science and engineering, as well as showing how our solutions are helping to make the world a better place.”

Coordinated by the North East STEM Hub, the event, held at The Beacon of Light, aimed to inspire young people in STEM subjects through hands-on experiences, such as manifold building and microbiology demonstrations.

Parker’s STEM ambassadors also shared insights into careers in science and engineering, drawing from their own industry experiences to engage with local students and teachers.

Richard Purdy, project engineer and STEM ambassador at Parker Bioscience Filtration, added: “Once again, we were thrilled to have participated in STEMFest.

“Our team of STEM ambassadors spoke to hundreds of young people over the three days, answering their questions and engaging them in fun demonstrations and hands-on activities.”

Dawn Ross, STEM hub liaison coordinator, also spoke of the importance of engaging with students and providing “a glimpse of the diverse job opportunities right on their doorstep”.

She added: “We hope this inspires them to make informed choices when selecting their GCSE options.

“The event also strives to break down barriers and encourage more girls to explore STEM pathways.”

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