News
‘Spark their Imagination, Power their Future’ – an innovative programme aimed at encouraging young people in Wales to pursue careers in Electronics and semiconductors – has successfully concluded after 18 months of impactful activities.
The programme, funded by Innovate UK and delivered by the UK Electronics Skills Foundation (UKESF) in partnership with CSA Catapult, comprised a range of events, outreach activities, and tailored support to inspire the next generation of Electronics Engineers.
It was designed to address an Electronics skills shortage affecting the growth of key sectors, including compound semiconductors, an area where South Wales has established itself as a global hub. Despite this, just 120 Welsh students began Electrical and Electronic Engineering degrees at UK universities in 2021, highlighting the urgent need for action.
Speaking about the programme, Stewart Edmondson, Chief Executive, UKESF, said:
“The Spark their Imagination programme has been significant success, and I am very proud of the impact that we have made. The results demonstrate the importance of a holistic approach – supporting both teachers and pupils, and implementing different activities to break down barriers of access to Electronics and raise awareness of rewarding careers in the industry.
At the heart of the programme has been a successful partnership between the UKESF and the CSA Catapult, and we really appreciate and value the strong relationship between our two organisations.”
Impact
The programme included:
Events – The UKESF met 295 pupils from across Wales at events. Events took place at Bangor University, University of South Wales, Centre for Integrative Semiconductor Materials at Swansea University, Cardiff University and the University of Wales Trinity St David.
Schools resources – 45 schools received free Electronics equipment and supporting resources to help teachers to develop their students’ knowledge. Resources included those from our Electronics Everywhere and our Insight into Electronics programmes.
Sparc Award – This Award recognised 24 students who started Electronics or a related course at university in the 2024/25 academic year. It provided financial support and mentoring, and aimed to help address underrepresentation and improve social mobility.
Download the full report here.
UKESF activities in Wales
Following the success of this programme, CSconnected have provided funding from SIPF for further Electronics interventions in Wales. Through Sparking STEM Futures, the UKESF will provide more schools with access to interactive resources, as well as host several more events, one of which is Girls into Electronics at Swansea University on 26 June 2025. Find out more here.
