CSconnected at the Wales STEM Awards
17th Hydref 2025
The Wales STEM Awards 2025, held on 16 October, shone a spotlight on the organisations and individuals making a real difference to the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) agenda in Wales. The awards recognise those leading the way in innovation, addressing the skills and diversity gap, creating economic impact, and inspiring the next generation of talent.
CSconnected was proud to be named a finalist in the Educational Programme of the Year (Not-for-profit) category for our Sparking STEM Futures initiative, a strategic, region-wide programme designed to inspire and develop the next generation of STEM talent, with a particular focus on the compound semiconductor industry in South Wales.
Being shortlisted alongside so many outstanding projects highlights the incredible collaboration across our region, uniting industry, academia, and education to build a strong and sustainable skills pipeline that will power growth and innovation for years to come. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees recognised at this year’s awards!
"Over the past year, we’ve reached thousands of young people across South Wales through Sparking STEM Futures and our wider outreach work. What’s really encouraging is seeing how many now recognise semiconductors as something relevant to their lives and futures. This isn’t just about inspiring interest in STEM - it’s about showing that world-class technology careers exist right here in Wales, and that our young people can be part of that story. Our success comes down to collaboration. Schools, colleges, universities, and industry partners across South Wales are working together to build a real skills pipeline. The momentum we’ve built through initiatives like Sparking STEM Futures shows what’s possible when we join the dots between education and industry.” - Brandon Jones, CSconnected Skills Manager
In under a year, Sparking STEM Futures has already made a real impact across South Wales:
- 5,000 primary pupils inspired
- 3,000 secondary pupils engaged
- 400 teachers supported with resources & CPD
- 650 industry professionals connected with learners
- 205 events delivered across 121 schools
We would like to thank our outreach delivery partners for bringing this initiative to life:
EESW (Engineering Education Scheme Wales), UK Electronics Skills Foundation (UKESF), Techniquest, Iungo Solutions, and Oriel Science
Find out more about Sparking STEM Futures activity on our website: Sparking STEM Futures | CSconnected
CSconnected would also like to extend our congratulations to Dr Drew Nelson OBE, BSc, PhD, FREng on his award 'Outstanding Contribution to STEM'.
Dr Nelson, a well-renowned and respected industry player with over 40 years’ experience in the semiconductor sector, was instrumental in establishing South Wales as a world leader in advanced semiconductor manufacturing through the formation of CSconnected. His continued leadership and support remain an inspiration to the STEM community in Wales.
Notes to editors
Contact
Rianne Mason / Zoe Fawcett
csconnected@purplefish.agency
Nina Stevens
info@csconnected.com
About CSconnected
CSconnected is the world’s first compound semiconductor cluster, located in South Wales. Supported by the Strength in Places Fund (UK Research and Innovation) and Cardiff Capital Region, the cluster unites leading companies, research institutions, and government partners to drive innovation, economic growth, and global leadership in semiconductor technology.
