People & Skills Hub April Blog: Why C…

Why Does Careers Outreach Matters

We need the best talent to create growth and innovation in our sectors and careers outreach is one way to showcase the opportunities and share the knowledge of the impact we make.

Careers outreach isn’t just a “nice to have” for the chemical supply chain – it’s a crucial part of recruitment and securing the future workforce for our industry. By helping young people understand the exciting, high-impact careers available in chemicals, logistics, and distribution, we’re not only addressing current skills gaps, but actively shaping a more sustainable, diverse, and resilient workforce for tomorrow.

The Chemical Business Association has made this a core part of our People & Skills Hub, where we are supporting members to attract, develop, and retain talent. Through Generation STEAM and our Future Council, we are delivering a national outreach programme, connecting schools, colleges, and universities with real role models from across our industry.  By sharing our stories and career journeys, we show the next generation that there’s a place for everyone in our sector – regardless of background.

Our careers outreach directly aligns with Responsible Care, our industry’s commitment to continuous improvement in health, safety, environmental performance, and social responsibility.  So by supporting skills development and outreach we continue to show how our businesses care for their communities and invest in the future of the whole workforce.

By inspiring tomorrow’s chemists, engineers, drivers, and sustainability leads, we’re not only building talent pipelines but we’re giving back for the good of our sector and its long-term future.

If your organisation wants to get involved, our People & Skills Hub is here to help you as we work together to ensure sustainable future generations of talent.

Why not become a Generation STEAM Ambassador

Introduction

We believe that early engagement is key to inspiring the next generation of talent in our sector. Generation STEAM is a flagship outreach programme designed to connect people working across the chemical supply chain with schools, colleges, and universities.

Our Generation STEAM Ambassadors play a vital role in helping young people understand the exciting careers available in chemicals, logistics, distribution, and beyond. Whether you’re a technical expert, early in your career, or supporting others in the business, your story can spark curiosity and raise aspirations.

Generation STEAM Ambassador Role Description

What You’ll Be Doing

As a Generation STEAM Ambassador, you will:

• Support school, college, or university engagement by speaking about your role, career journey, and experiences
• Deliver short talks or interactive sessions (resources and support provided)
• Helping bring real-world relevance to what students are learning
• Promote the wide range of careers available across the chemical supply chain
• Represent your company and the sector in a positive, inclusive way

You can take part in one-off sessions, attend events, or create a longer-term engagement with your local schools/college/universities. We’ll support you in identifying opportunities that fit your availability.

Why Does Early Careers Outreach Matter?

We know that a young person’s career journey starts long before they leave school. That’s why part of your role as an ambassador may include visits to primary and secondary schools. This early exposure helps young learners explore the world of work, understand what skills they enjoy using and feel confident about their future.

By working with schools, we help CBA members build long-term talent pipelines, strengthen their employer brand, and support our shared commitment to Responsible Care through community engagement and inclusion.

Who Can Volunteer?

We welcome volunteers from across the CBA membership and wider business community who:

• Work in any role within a chemical-related business (not just technical)
• Are passionate about inspiring the next generation
• Can speak confidently and professionally about their career (training is available)
• Want to give back to their local community or raise the profile of the sector
• Have enthusiasm and real-world insight. No previous outreach experience is required

How You’ll Benefit

Volunteering as a Generation STEAM Ambassador helps you:

• Support young people and schools in your community
• Develop your communication and public engagement skills
• Raise the profile of your company and our sector
• Fulfil your organisation’s social value and Responsible Care commitments
• Connect with other ambassadors across the country
• We’ll also recognise and celebrate your involvement through our People & Skills Hub.

Time Commitment

Flexible!  From joining a career fair with our Future Council or sitting on a Q&A panel in a university to popping in to your local schools assembly.   We only ask for a single activity per year but will support you in all ongoing engagement depending on your availability.

Sessions typically last 30–60 minutes, plus prep time (resources can be provided and can be branded to your company).

Training & Support is available for those new to carers outreach:

• All ambassadors receive a welcome guide, template presentations, and ongoing support
• Optional Teams briefing sessions will be offered throughout the year.
• CBA and our Future Council member are on hand to help you feel confident before your first session.