STEM Returners and Boeing launch Return Flight

Above: Boeing Return Flight personnel.
Courtesy Boeing

Specifically targeting employment fields such as engineering, operations and quality, the initiative provides a unique opportunity for people with expertise in these areas to reintegrate into the workforce. The programme focuses on learning, development and workplace transition to equip returners with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their respective roles.

"Through the Return Flight programme, we aim to provide a supportive environment where participants can reintegrate into the workforce and receive targeted development to help unlock their full potential,” said Israil Bryan, Global Equity, Diversity & Inclusion director for Boeing Global. “We know that a diverse workforce is a more effective workforce, and we look forward to seeing the unique perspective participants bring to the company.”

Key components of the Return Flight programme include tailored onboarding and programme orientation, foundational upskilling, personal coaching sessions, and professional and leadership skills development. Each participant will be matched with a dedicated professional coach, mentor, and buddy who will provide ongoing support throughout their return-to-work journey and facilitate their professional growth.

The programme is open to candidates who have taken a minimum continuous or combined career break of 18-24 months. After successfully completing the 12-week program, participants have the opportunity for full-time employment.

STEM Returners, a leading organisation in returner programmes in the UK, will source candidates and provide additional support, including advice, career coaching, and mentoring, to ensure applicants are ready and confident to return to work.

The annual STEM Returners Index research reveals the challenges faced by individuals returning from a career break, with recruitment bias being the primary barrier to entry. A significant 66% of STEM professionals on a career break find the process of returning to work difficult or very difficult, and 46% feel biased against due to a lack of recent experience.

Natalie Desty, Director of STEM Returners, said: “There is a known shortage of skills across STEM industries in the UK so to see a company like Boeing, a leading global aerospace company, launch the Return Flight programme here and help this pool of skilled, dedicated and talented professionals return to work, is very positive.

“Through partnerships like this, we will we make vital changes in STEM recruitment practices to help those who are finding it challenging to return to the sector and improve diversity and inclusion.”

Since STEM Returners first launched in 2017, more than 400 STEM Returners candidates have joined programmes across the UK. To view STEM Returners opportunities, visit: www.stemreturners.com/placements