UKOPA is delighted to have joined forces with the Royal Academy of Engineering to support their Graduate Engineering Engagement Programme (GEEP) to encourage the next generation of engineers. As part of the initiative, we’re asking Members if they would consider acting as mentors to guide, inspire, and support talented engineering students from under-represented backgrounds as they embark on their professional journeys.
If you’re passionate about fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in engineering, this is a unique opportunity for UKOPA members to contribute.
About The GEEP: Building a Diverse Future in Engineering
GEEP is an award-winning initiative by the Royal Academy of Engineering that aims to level the playing field in the UK engineering industry. Since its launch in 2015, the programme has provided a platform for over 1,800 students from more than 70 universities to gain industry insights, skills, and connections. Over 50 companies have participated in this initiative, helping to develop a future-ready, diverse talent pool.
In the 2023-24 programme alone, GEEP mentors and volunteers committed an impressive 1,860 hours, encompassing over 30 learning sessions and 750 mentoring calls. By becoming a mentor, you join a community dedicated to creating lasting change in engineering, helping students overcome systemic challenges, build confidence, and realize their full potential.
Why Mentor with GEEP?
As a GEEP mentor, you’ll have the rewarding experience of working one-on-one with a student through six dedicated mentoring sessions from November 2024 to July 2025. These sessions will focus on career development, providing your mentee with vital guidance as they navigate the early stages of their engineering career.
- Full Training & Structured Support – To ensure you have the tools needed to be a successful mentor, GEEP offers a comprehensive training session prior to the start of the programme. The structured framework ensures that both you and your mentee gain the most from each session.
- Flexible Timeline – With sessions spaced across eight months, you’ll have time to build a strong mentor-mentee relationship, tailored to your schedules.
- Be Part of Lasting Change – Diversity, equity, and inclusion aren’t just values; they’re actions. Your mentorship will directly contribute to diversifying the engineering industry and creating more equitable career paths.
Ready to Make an Impact?
The last day to apply is Friday, 1 November 2024. Whether you’re a seasoned engineer or just starting in your professional life, your unique experiences and insights could be invaluable to a GEEP student.
For more information or to apply, contact Nikki Barker at secretary@UKOPA.co.uk. Let’s build a future in engineering where talent from all backgrounds can thrive. Embrace the opportunity to support, guide, and inspire the engineers of tomorrow by becoming a mentor for GEEP.