Bentley Motors is shifting gears towards the future by announcing the third edition of its impactful Extraordinary Women mentorship programme. This initiative, designed to empower the next generation of female leaders, brings together promising students, prestigious universities, and accomplished women they call "Pioneers" – all focused on fostering excellence in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.
Building on the success of the previous two years, the 2024 edition expands its reach by collaborating with universities from both the United Kingdom and Qatar. In the UK, Bentley will partner with the University of Bath, Loughborough University, Warwick University, and Manchester Metropolitan University. Qatar's University of Doha for Science and Technology joins the program for the first time, providing a valuable international perspective to the mentorship experience.
The program meticulously matches eight outstanding female students with high-achieving "Pioneers" – accomplished women who serve as role models and mentors. These one-on-one pairings provide invaluable guidance and support, helping students navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in their academic and professional journeys. The mentorships delve into areas like career development, leadership skills, and navigating traditionally male-dominated industries.
The Extraordinary Women program goes beyond traditional mentorship. Following a period of personalized guidance, the chosen students culminate their experience with an immersive week at Bentley's headquarters in Crewe, England. This exclusive opportunity allows them to work alongside Bentley's expert teams on real-world projects, putting their theoretical knowledge into practice and gaining a firsthand understanding of the world of luxury car manufacturing.
Bentley's dedication to diversity and inclusion is evident throughout the Extraordinary Women program. This initiative not only empowers future female leaders but also serves as a testament to the company's commitment to fostering a more equitable environment within the STEM industry. By providing these students with invaluable mentorship, industry exposure, and practical experience, Bentley Motors is helping to pave the way for a future where women are not just present but thrive in leadership roles across STEM fields.