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Supporting STEM Education with the Avantor Foundation

Since 2021 the Avantor Foundation and EDT have been working together to inspire young people, from more diverse backgrounds to pursue STEM education and careers. So far, more than 5,400 young people have completed programmes funded by the Avantor Foundation, earning Industrial Cadets awards at Challenger or Silver level.

The Avantor Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Avantor, a leading global provider of mission-critical products and services to customers in the life sciences and advanced technology industries. The Avantor Foundation is committed to increasing access to STEM and STEM careers for underserved students aged 14-17. Funding has enabled EDT to develop new content for our outreach work, introduce young people to careers at Avantor, and deliver hands-on skills sessions and a successful virtual work experience programme.

Colleagues across Avantor have also added huge value by volunteering their time to help develop resources and deliver sessions on topics ranging from digital solutions, sustainability, and what it’s like to bein the early years of a STEM career.

Testimonial

“Our partnership with EDT reflects the Avantor Foundation’s commitment to supporting programmes that create lasting impact through meaningful STEM experiences. From hands-on experience days to collaborative industry projects, EDT’s Industrial Cadets programmes offer students opportunities to explore STEM in ways that are practical, engaging, and deeply relevant. They also provide a meaningful way for Avantor associates to share their experiences and help inspire the next generation of STEM leaders.
"Thank you, EDT, for sparking curiosity and equipping young people with both the technical knowledge and personal confidence to take their next steps in STEM.”

Avantor Foundation President, Eilidh Robertson

 

Young people who have taken part in the supported programmes reported increased interest in STEM education and careers, and improved knowledge of STEM subjects. They also valued the opportunity to talk to Avantor colleagues and find out more about the world of work:

“The practical tasks and everyday challenges I completed provided a fascinating glimpse into real-world applications of science and technology. This experience has confirmed my desire to work in a STEM field, where I can continue to explore and solve complicated challenges, ”shared an Avantor virtual work experience participant, 2024."

By the end of our current grant, we  will reach an additional  2,000 students from underserved communities by September 2025.

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