The Steven Eagell Group teamed with Milton Keynes College to host a week-long work experience event for female students, aiming to inspire them to consider careers in the automotive industry.

Fourteen MK College students participated, beginning with a workshop at Steven Eagell's head office, where they engaged with female employees, received career guidance, and learned about Toyota and Lexus brands.

The students also visited the Lexus Milton Keynes dealership, toured the branch, explored Lexus models, and participated in interactive activities.

Throughout the week, students took on work placements in various departments such as marketing, sales, and customer service, gaining hands-on experience in the industry.

The initiative is part of the Automotive 30% Club’s campaign to improve gender diversity in the sector by encouraging women into roles traditionally less pursued by females.

Gary Smith, managing director of Steven Eagell Group, underlined the company’s commitment to attracting and nurturing female talent, aiming to reshape perceptions of the automotive industry.

“We were thrilled to have the opportunity to welcome 14 talented young women from MK College into our business, providing them with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and explore the wide variety of opportunities available in the sector.

“We’re committed to continuing to work towards creating a business that attracts, retains and nurtures the top female talent in the industry, fostering a diverse workforce that’s better equipped to meet the challenges of the future.

To achieve this, it’s vital that we play our part in reshaping the perception of the automotive industry, while demonstrating to young women just starting out in their careers that this is a sector in which they can thrive. This was our first event of this kind and we hope it has inspired those who attended to consider pursuing a career at Steven Eagell Group.”

Jim Nowell from Milton Keynes College added: “At Milton Keynes College, we’re committed to delivering Fairer Futures so when Steven Eagell Group approached us to take part in their initiative to encourage more women and girls to consider careers in the automotive industry, we were very excited to take part.”