Careers Networking Dinner Showcases the Diversity of Engineering Pathways

LGS Careers recently hosted the second event in its new Careers Networking Dinner series, bringing together pupils and alumni for an inspiring evening focused on careers in engineering.

Delivered in partnership with the Alumni and Development Office, the event welcomed 38 pupils from across the Foundation who were keen to explore the wide range of opportunities available within one of the world’s most innovative and influential sectors.

Originally planned to take place in the Sixth Form Centre, the event was relocated due to the exceptional summer heatwave. Pupils gathered in the Tower Café for a buffet supper and informal networking before moving to L1 and the Library for a series of small-group discussions.

The evening was expertly hosted by Tom Emmet, Deputy Head of LGS, who guided pupils through a programme designed to encourage curiosity, conversation and informed career exploration.

Seven volunteers generously gave their time to share their experiences and career journeys, representing an impressive breadth of engineering disciplines:

The evening opened with an icebreaker discussion exploring what first inspired each volunteer to pursue engineering and what they most enjoy about their current role. Their responses highlighted the variety of motivations that draw people into the profession, from solving complex problems and developing cutting-edge technologies to making a tangible impact on society and the thrill of seeing their innovation in situ.

Pupils then moved into small discussion groups, where they were able to engage directly with the volunteers and explore themes developed from questions submitted in advance.

Topics included:

1. Routes into Engineering – degree programmes, apprenticeships and alternative pathways
2. Choosing Your Path – selecting a specialism and the flexibility to change direction
3. The Reality of the Job – day-to-day working life and common misconceptions
4. Skills, Mindset and Standing Out – what employers are looking for in future engineers
5. The Future of Engineering – emerging technologies, AI and global opportunities
6. Purpose, Motivation and Impact – finding meaning and fulfilment through engineering

The small-group format encouraged open and honest discussion, allowing pupils to ask detailed questions and gain insights from professionals at different stages of their careers.

One of the strongest themes to emerge from the evening was the sheer diversity of careers available within engineering. From Formula One and renewable energy to defence, civil infrastructure, advanced manufacturing and chemical engineering, pupils gained a deeper appreciation of the many routes and specialisms available.

Feedback from pupils highlighted how valuable they found the opportunity to hear directly from professionals working across such a wide range of industries and disciplines.

The Engineering Careers Dinner once again demonstrated the value of connecting current pupils with members of the Loughborough Schools Foundation community. Throughout the evening, pupils engaged thoughtfully and confidently, asking insightful questions and showing genuine enthusiasm for learning more about potential future careers.

We are extremely grateful to our alumni and volunteer speakers for their generosity in sharing their experiences and advice. Their willingness to support the next generation of Loughburians reflects the strength of our community and the importance of giving pupils authentic insights into life beyond School.

The Careers Networking Dinner series will continue throughout the year, offering further opportunities for pupils to explore different professions, develop their networks and make informed decisions about their futures.

The next event planned for Thursday 8 October will shine a spotlight on medical careers. Any alumni interested in volunteering for this event, please contact the Alumni and Development Office (alumni@lsf.org). We would be delighted to hear from you.