The North East STEM Hub held their first ever awards night to celebrate the contribution that companies and individuals have made to enthuse and inspire the next generation of STEM professionals.

The evening was hosted by author and TV host Dallas Campbell, who is originally from the North East and passionate about enthusing children into STEM related subjects.

With 15 award categories including six special recognition awards, it was a full agenda and there were lots to celebrate.

Huge congratulations to Sir Robert McAlpine's Paula McMahon who was awarded the following accolades:

Highest number of hours by a North East STEM Ambassador

Paula logged almost 1,500 hours since 1^st April 2020, representing over 200 separate engagements. Not only has she delivered in the UK but has also had international students at some of her online events.

Special recognition award for outstanding contribution to STEM Education in the North East:

She has for many years volunteered with the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) and is currently the Teesside Branch Chair and North East Vice Chair. She also undertakes national roles chairing the Editorial Panel of the ICE Proceedings: Civil Engineering and is an ICE Lead Reviewer.

She is also the Founding Chair and driving force behind Engineering Together, based in the Tees Valley. Paula recognises the importance of inspiring the next generation of engineers by mentoring and coaching young people. She is passionate about working towards a diverse workforce, leading the way on many initiatives focusing on supporting women in the Engineering sector.

The North East STEM Ambassador programme ran by RTC North has over 1,400 registered STEM Ambassadors who have clocked up an impressive 15,000 hours in the last 14 months. Every interaction brings young people into contact with thousands of volunteers who give up their time to deliver inspiring, engaging, and informative events, videos, demonstrations, lectures and many more types of activities to engage our future workforce and help close the skills gap.

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