Derby careers scheme selects new chair from the University of Derby
The scheme is backed by Derby City Council.
Louise Pigden, Deputy Dean of the College of Science and Engineering at the University of Derby
Submitted by Kerry Ganly
A local careers initiative, aimed at inspiring young people and preparing them for the world of work, has appointed a new chair.
Enterprise for Education (E4E) - which is based in Derby in Derbyshire - has appointed Louise Pigden to the role.
Louise is currently the Deputy Dean of the College of Science and Engineering at the University of Derby.
She will replace Mike Copestake, who has been involved with the scheme since it was launched in 2014.
Louise said: "I am absolutely delighted to have been appointed chair of E4E.
"I have some big boots to fill.
"Mike has done a brilliant job for the past eight years and he was the person who suggested I join the board at E4E because of my background in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)."
E4E has helped thousands of secondary school pupils across Derby.
The Derby City Council-backed scheme aims to connect employers with students in the city.
E4E offers mock interviews, CV workshops and mentoring.
Employees from organisations in Derby - including Rolls-Royce, Alstrom and Toyota - all volunteer their time for the scheme.
Louise said: "I have a keen interest in outreach work and do a lot of that for the University.
"The core mission of E4E has always been to inspire the school children of Derby to achieve great things, open their eyes to opportunities, and to do this by introducing them to fantastic volunteers from Derby’s employers.
"As a volunteer, I have witnessed first-hand how impactful it can be.
"It is a joy to talk to young people about their aspirations, to positively influence them, give them ideas or a little bit of practice by taking part in mock interviews or CV Workshops.
"I’m looking forward to taking on this position, which aligns to the University’s wider civic agenda, helping to transform people’s lives and creative positive impact.
"The E4E mission is to help raise aspirations and bridge the gap in educational attainment.
"I’m honoured to have been appointed chair and I am looking forward to continuing the good work."
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