My historical and successful 10 year career as a research scientist within the Pharmaceutical Industry began with a practical based trainee placement year, which was undertaken as part of my degree qualification. I therefore firmly believe practical experience holds a powerful key to employability and being a STEM Ambassador allows me to provide exciting practical learning opportunities to young people of a variety of ages. In my current role, as a Science Technician within Secondary Education, I offer weekly after-school STEM Club sessions and there is nothing I love more than to share a fun ‘hands on’ activity with students which they can repeat at home to engage their family members too! I have witnessed several aspirational STEM club attendees grow in confidence and develop independent practical learning skills, this is very rewarding and is voluntary time well spent!