Igniting the spark: How NZTC’s STEM programmes inspire the next generation

02 December 2025 2 minute read

In a region renowned for energy innovation, the North East’s future depends on young minds ready to tackle tomorrow’s challenges. At the Net Zero Technology Centre (NZTC), we believe that STEM isn’t just a set of subjects, it’s a gateway to creativity, confidence and a sustainable world. Our mission? To ignite curiosity and ambition in every young person we meet.

Aberdeen and the North East are home to a vibrant network of organisations championing STEM activities for young people, including the Net Zero Technology Centre. From exciting hands-on workshops to large-scale events, programmes are designed to give young people a taste of in STEM and spark their curiosity.

These activities go beyond teaching science and math; they focus on building essential skills like critical thinking, teamwork and creativity. By fostering curiosity, they help young people approach challenges with confidence.

Getting primary school pupils excited about STEM

At NZTC we are pleased to get involved and provide hands-on activities that help spark excitement around STEM.

The journey begins with Aberdeen’s primary schools, where NZTC brings science and engineering to life. Through interactive activity days, pupils explore net zero concepts and renewable technologies, not just in theory, but through hands-on challenges. Whether designing emergency lighting for stormy nights or inventing classroom solutions to cut energy use, children discover how engineering shapes everyday life.

The “Lighting the Way Through a Stormy Night” challenge specifically addresses practical problems like emergency lighting during power cuts, helping pupils make the link between engineering and everyday life.

The “Net Zero Superhero Challenge” inspires engineering creativity by encouraging pupils to design new technologies that reduce energy consumption in the classroom to help their school reach net zero.

Activities like our “Net Zero Power Challenge” boardgame make complex topics fun and easy for young minds to understand, with pupils learning about different renewable energy sources while practising problem-solving and teamwork skills. This game is now being introduced to local primary schools to promote STEM education in the classroom.

We also love engaging younger children at events like the Stemovators “North-East Celebration of STEM,” where hands-on challenges make science fun and accessible for everyone.

Equipping teenagers with real-world and engaging STEM experiences

As students grow, so do the opportunities. NZTC’s partnership with Career Ready delivers masterclasses to over 70 teenagers each year, teaching practical interview techniques and workplace skills. Summer placements offer mentorship and a taste of real industry projects, from hydrogen technologies to survival training at 3T, and visits to the National Decommissioning Centre and OEUK. These experiences spark ambition and help teenagers see themselves as future innovator

Inspiring university students with meaningful STEM internships

For university students, a summer at NZTC can be transformative.

Every summer, several interns join NZTC for placements lasting 10–12 weeks. Each intern gets hands-on experience working on live projects along with industry professionals. Weekly skills sessions cover everything from LinkedIn to presentation skills to help them build confidence and prepare for what’s next.

By the end of their placements, interns leave with new abilities, greater confidence and a clearer sense of direction—ready to make their mark in STEM careers.

Creating inclusive STEM experiences for girls and young learners

Representation and encouragement matter. At events like Shell’s Girls in Energy, we helped create a supportive environment where young women could showcase their ideas. The programme involved group discussions about global energy challenges and a Dragon’s Den-style competition where finalist teams presented their ideas to a panel of judges.

Real-world STEM learning and connections

NZTC’s programmes empower young people to solve real problems, build vital skills, and imagine themselves as leaders in the energy transition. By connecting classroom learning to industry realities, we’re helping shape a workforce ready for net zero and beyond.

Interested in organising a STEM event at your school or learning more about how NZTC can support your outreach goals? Visit our STEM page to explore resources and opportunities.