Finding My Way Back: My STEM Returners Journey
Find out how STEM Returner Andrea advanced her career at Avove
We’re committed to supporting STEM workers through offering opportunities to return to their chosen career path following a break through our STEM Returners programme. In this article, STEM Returner, Andrea, takes us through her career journey and the benefits of our STEM Returner programme.
Building a foundation in engineering
I started my career in civil engineering, earning my degree at a university in Colombia. Initially, I planned to stay in the UK for only a few months, but I soon realized the incredible opportunities to grow professionally. Motivated by this, I enrolled in an MBA program, and after completing it, I landed a great opportunity at a consultancy firm, where I spent eight years developing myself as a structural engineer.
Setting an example for the next generation
Life took a turn when I became pregnant with my second child. I relocated from Buckinghamshire to the West Midlands, and just before the pandemic, I was making my way into a role as a project engineer. However, the pandemic affected the company I was working for, leading me to put my career on hold and focus on supporting my young family at home. After two years, I attempted to return to the workforce, but soon realized it wasn’t the right time to balance a new job with my family’s needs.
Now that my daughters are a bit older, I’ve felt the pull to return to work—not just for personal growth and the intellectual challenges I’ve missed, but also to set an example for them. I want them to see that women have a place in society beyond the home and that it’s possible to pursue your dreams while raising a family.
Discovering a Way Back Through STEM Returners
During my job search, I came across the STEM Returners program, and I’m so glad that I did. While the process can take some time, the people behind the program have been incredibly supportive, always working to match skills to the best opportunities. Most importantly, they gave me the confidence to take the leap and restart my career.
Through the STEM Returners program, I was matched with a Structural Engineer position at Avove. From the very first week, I felt welcomed—the team was friendly, always happy to help, and open to a quick chat, which made settling into a new company and role much smoother. After a 12-week trial period, I was thrilled to be offered a permanent position. I couldn’t be happier—I feel like I have rediscovered myself as a professional and that I am once again making a meaningful contribution to society.
My Advice for Career Returners
To anyone considering a return to work: there will always be a place for you as long as you give yourself a chance and trust the people behind the STEM Returners program. They will guide you through the process, offering support, encouragement, and opportunities tailored to your skills. Take that leap—you might just surprise yourself with what you can achieve!
Return to your STEM career and reach your full potential at Avove
At Avove, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to reach their full potential and work within an environment that values what you bring to the table and invests in your development. We’re proud to support initiatives like STEM Returners that help talented individuals rejoin the workforce with confidence. Whether you’ve taken time out to raise a family or pursue other priorities, we offer a welcoming environment where your experience is valued, opportunities are abundant, and flexible working is offered wherever possible.
Ready to take the next step? We’re ready to welcome you.
Call our recruitment team today: 01772 952 543 or fill out our enquiry form.