I’m an Engineer, Get me out of here is an online STEM engagement activity for school students.
By taking part you:
- develop communication skills
- gain a fresh perspective on your work
- find out what young people think about engineering
Everything happens online. Take part from the office or at home, at times that suit your schedule.
The format
You create a profile, answer students’ questions, and engage directly with classes in live text-only chats.
Students vote for their favourite engineer to win €500 to spend on further public engagement.
Live chats with classes
Live chats last 40 minutes. They happen on our text-only messaging platform (no video or audio needed).
Chats are fast paced and fun. We don’t expect you to attend every chat! Sign up to whatever you can fit into your schedule.
Read about the advantages of being text-only ❯ (on our sister-site I’m a Scientist)
Zones: Groups of engineers and schools
The activity is divided into ‘Zones’. Each Zone typically lasts 4 weeks, with a new group of engineers and school students in each.
A Zone could be a general engineering-themed, featuring engineers from a broad range of fields. Or, Zones can be themed to a particular area of work, for example, an ‘Energy Zone’.
Time needed
The time commitment is flexible. The activity is designed so you can fit taking part around your normal schedule.
Only take part in the live chats that suit your schedule. You can also log in to answer students’ questions at any time.
Questions students ask
I’m an Engineer is a student-led activity. This means students can ask you anything they like. There could be questions about you, your work and STEM in general, from robots to pizza toppings.
All questions and live chats are moderated by our moderation team, who are there to help and support you throughout the activity.
Equipment you need
All you need is a computer or other device with internet access.
Everything is run through a web-browser, you don’t need to download any software.
Prize money for your project
During the activity, students vote for the engineer they think should win €500 for their own outreach activities.
The money could be spent on school visits, science fair exhibits, videos or podcasts, blogs, arranging class visits to your lab or office… as long as it’s involving people outside of STEM, it’s a good idea.
Every Friday during the activity, the ‘Engineer of the Week’ is announced. This is the person who has received the most votes from students. On the final day of the activity, the overall winner who wins the €500 is revealed.
Find out how past winners have spent their money ❯
Who can apply
Anyone in an engineering-related job is welcome to apply.
You could be working in industry, academia or the public sector. You could be a technician, an apprentice, or in roles like comms or management.
Take part to show students the wide range of STEM-related careers out there.
Apply to take part ❯
It only takes 2 minutes to register.
We’ll let you know if we have a space for you in one of our activities.Questions? Contact support@imanengineer.ie
