A former NASA scientist has dropped in on west Fife.
Dr Ellen Stofan, who was the chief scientist until December 2016, talked about the importance of STEM careers during her visit to the Scottish Schools Education Research Centre (SSERC) at its base in Dunfermline.
As part of a very limited number of engagements in Scotland, Dr Stofan used her visit to the SSERC HQ to promote the career opportunities which can be opened through STEM disciplines.
As well as recording a short presentation in which she used her own career to outline the importance of STEM education and engagement, she met with a number of STEM ambassadors who participated in a discussion.
When asked what was the key to engaging pupils in STEM, Dr Stofan stressed the importance of youngsters doing practical science, rather than just reading about it.
“The well-paying jobs of the future are STEM jobs, so we need all of our students engaged, no matter their gender,” she said.
Dr Stofan was accompanied by Susan Wilson, principal officer for the US Consulate General in Edinburgh.
She added: “Encouraging STEM-related careers is a priority for us and what better way to do this by having Dr Stofan engage with SSERC STEM Ambassadors, who can then relay her message to young people across Scotland.”
SSERC chief executive officerAlastair McGregor was delighted that the NASA scientist took time out of her own personal schedule to visit SSERC and not only meet with STEM Ambassadors but record a message which will be broadcast to every primary and secondary school in Scotland.
“At a time when, as a nation, we are actively encouraging young people to consider a career in STEM, it is great to have Ellen as a positive role model who can share her own experience, including the challenges that she has had to overcome in the journey to becoming chief scientist at NASA,” he added.
Shirley-Anne Somerville, minister for further and higher education, said: “Developing Scotland’s STEM talent is key to achieving our ambitions of being a modern, dynamic and open economy.
“Hearing from role models like Dr Stofan can have a powerful impact on young people and I hope that her video message to schools will chime with those making choices about their future studies.”
