This month, the IOR is turning the spotlight on STEM—science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—and the ways we can inspire the next generation to get excited about refrigeration and engineering.

There’s a certain joy in sharing what we do with young minds. Through initiatives like our STEM toolkits, Lego kits, and the educational resources available at fantasticfridges.com, we’re sparking curiosity, creativity, and enthusiasm for engineering in schools and communities. These tools don’t just teach; they ignite a sense of wonder and open doors to future careers in refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat pumps.  The IOR membership includes over 30 registered STEM Ambassadors now. Thank you to all of you for the good work you do – or plan to do.

With February half-term just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to try out some of these activities with your children, grandchildren, or even a local youth group if you're a registered STEM Ambassador. From fun experiments to hands-on challenges, these resources are designed to be simple, engaging, and a brilliant way to show young people the magic of STEM. Imagine the excitement of building a Lego model or learning how cooling technology works—it’s play with a purpose, and it might just spark a lifelong interest.

But these efforts need more than tools — they need people. People like you, who can share your experiences, enthusiasm, and knowledge. Whether it’s running a hands-on activity in a local school, mentoring a student, or simply spreading the word about the exciting opportunities in our industry, your involvement can make a real difference. What starts as a fun activity could shape a child’s future.

Investing in STEM activities today is an investment in the future of our industry. By inspiring young people to explore the possibilities of engineering, we’re not only addressing the skills gap but also ensuring that our industry continues to thrive with fresh talent and ideas.

So, this Valentine’s Day and half-term, let’s show our love for STEM and for the future of our sector. Get involved with STEM outreach efforts and help spread the word about the resources IOR has available. Whether it’s sharing fantasticfridges.com with a local school or using one of our Lego kits to run an activity, every small act adds up to something extraordinary.  We have pages and activities for young people of all ages with separate resources for those at primary school, secondary school and vocational colleges.

If you’d like to be part of this exciting journey, contact the IOR at ior@ior.org.uk. Let’s work together to inspire the next generation and give back to the industry we love. Because when it comes to STEM, the possibilities are endless — and so is the impact we can make.