Home : Next Generation : Young Engineers & STEM Support

Help inspire the next generation of naval architects and maritime engineers. Share your experience, spark curiosity, and open doors to high‑tech careers, building the world’s most advanced ships.

UK Members - Join via STEM Learning

Why volunteer?

  • Make a tangible impact on young people
  • Build public speaking & mentoring skills
  • Network with educators & industry
  • Access RINA resources & community

RINA’s outreach mission

Growing visibility and opportunity

  • Expand awareness of naval architecture and maritime careers through meaningful outreach.
  • Engage local communities regularly via a supported network of STEM Ambassadors.
  • Show the benefits of RINA membership to aspiring naval architects.

Key aims

What success looks like

  • Grow the number of registered RINA STEM Ambassadors.
  • Open access to STEM materials and resources.
  • Provide practical support so ambassadors spend time delivering outreach.
  • Increase RINA presence at STEM events across the UK.
  • Boost junior membership and create clearer entry pathways.

What you’ll do

Pick from a range of activities that suit your skills and schedule – from short talks to hands‑on workshops.

Talks & workshops

Deliver age‑appropriate sessions in schools and community spaces.

Demonstrations

Run simple experiments and ship‑design activities to bring STEM to life.

Mentoring

Offer career insight and guidance to curious students.

STEM fairs

Support RINA stands and local STEM events.

Resources

Help shape lesson plans and activity guides with educators.

Inclusion

Champion diversity and widen participation in maritime STEM.

Speaking to pupils and opening their eyes to a career in naval architecture, something they have likely never considered, and all of the possibilities it brings, is always a highlight. Volunteering with RINA gives you the tools and community to make that moment happen more often.

 

Charlotte Dodge, Senior Naval Architect at ABL Group, RINA Developing Careers Vice Chair

Who can apply?

Person specification

  • Background or strong interest in STEM – enthusiasm matters most.
  • Clear communication; patient and empathetic with varied age groups.
  • Collaborative mindset – enjoy working with teachers and peers.
  • Flexible availability. Minimum: 1 activity per year to remain registered.

Safeguarding & checks

Keeping pupils safe

UK: digital DBS/PVG through STEM Learning (via uCheck / YOTI or Post Office app). Schools may specify level.

International: obtain an equivalent local background check and send a copy to RINA for verification. On approval, you’ll receive a certificate and welcome pack.

How to register

UK‑based members

1. Tell RINA you’re interested

Email us so we can support your application and track demand.

2. Register with STEM Learning

Create your profile (10 mins): personal details, employment, PEI membership, activity preferences, age groups.

3. Complete safeguarding check

Digital DBS/PVG via app (ePassport/passport/driver’s licence). Support via in‑app chat or help@ucheck.co.uk.

4. Do the online induction

STEM Learning sends access within ~5 working days. Allow ~1 hour.

5. Join RINA induction

Welcome session, resources walkthrough, community access, certificate of appreciation.

International members

1. Contact RINA first

We’ll guide you and confirm eligibility outside the UK programme.

2. Obtain local background check

Follow your country’s process for working with children/vulnerable groups and send a copy to RINA for verification.

3. Approval & welcome pack

Receive your RINA STEM Ambassador certificate and onboarding guidance.

4. Plan activities & connect

Coordinate with local schools/organisations and use our community spaces to share ideas and resources.

STEM events & opportunities

Browse upcoming school visits, fairs and training sessions. Use the STEM Ambassador portal to sign up.

Open Calendar

STEM Learning portal

Find activities, log hours, complete induction and stay compliant.

Open Portal

Downloads

Intro slide deck (PPT)

Hands‑on activity sheets (PDF)

Safeguarding & risk checklist (PDF)

Ready‑to‑use Materials

Your Community

Learn more about Ambassadors and other Partners

Check STEM Learning

Frequently Asked Questions

How much time do I need to commit?

Minimum one activity per year to stay registered. Many ambassadors contribute a talk or workshop each term; it’s entirely flexible.

What checks are required?

UK ambassadors complete a digital DBS/PVG through STEM Learning. International members should provide an approved local background check to RINA for verification.

What support do I receive?

 

You’ll get RINA induction, template slides and activity packs, plus access to our online community for Q&A and sharing resources.

Where do activities take place?

Typically at UK schools and colleges via the STEM Learning programme. Internationally, activities can be arranged with local schools and community groups subject to local safeguarding rules.

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