National STEM Day: Inspiring a new generation of innovators

STEM is the foundation and future of Seagate. As such, the company observes the spirit of National STEM Day not just on November 8 but throughout the year.

One of many programs introducing students to science, technology, engineering and mathematics as practiced in the real world took place earlier this year at Seagate’s state-of-the-art Springtown facility in Derry/Londonderry, Northern Ireland.

Fifteen sixth-form students (ages 16 to 18) from 10 different schools spent three days learning about data, engineering, coding, and health and safety. They also heard about the careers of employees from engineering, manufacturing, IT and other departments.

World-class tech next door: “Most of the young people are surprised to learn how global our company is and the high-tech innovation happening right on their doorstep,” says Gemma Breslin, community partnership leader at Seagate.

That innovation involves the manufacturing of tiny recording heads that read and write data on spinning disks, alongside extensive research and development aimed at more than doubling current hard drive capacity.

“Is this what powers TikTok?” Precise, nanoscale engineering, smart manufacturing and ultra-clean rooms — it was all new to the teenage visitors. One asked, “Is this what powers TikTok?”

During the program, the kids went on to ask “great questions about AI, how hard drives are made and pathways into the tech sector,” Breslin says.

There to answer them on the spot were program coordinators Judith McLernon and Jacqueline McLaughlin, both Seagate engineers, along with other volunteers.

Open to all secondary students in Northern Ireland: To publicize the program and select the participants, Seagate works with Futures For All, a charity in the U.K. dedicated to helping young people overcome barriers to tech careers.

Seagate holds three of these events a year at Springtown and hopes to add another one next year.

Supporting the next generation: “It’s always inspiring to see young people engage with STEM and imagine the career pathways that lie ahead,” says Breslin. “We’re proud to play a role in sparking that curiosity and supporting the next generation of innovators.” 

Seagate also participates in other regional STEM programs, including the Ulster University AI Summer School, GEMX MakeMe Academy and NI Maths Fest.

Wealth of STEM talent to share: “Seagate enjoys a wealth of technical talent and know-how,” says Kristin Pascual, vice president communications, culture and community. “Sharing it with the community is an example of living out our values of integrity, innovation and inclusion. At the same time, it helps replenish the future STEM pipeline into our company."  

Learn more about Seagate’s university programs here.