More than 400 schoolchildren and teachers from across Bristol and the South West unleashed their inner engineer this week when they got stuck into robotics and virtual reality welding as part of our two day STEM-athon.
Coinciding with World Engineering Day on 4 March, the Bristol event is part of our national Festival of Engineering series of events, which are also hosted in Rosyth in Scotland and Plymouth, and aimed at inspiring future engineers and technologists.
Split into special activity zones, pupils were encouraged and inspired to take part in puzzles and experiences including a boat buoyancy challenge, coding, and seeing an awe-inspiring flight simulation.
Supported by our apprentices and graduates, the Festival of Engineering is a collaboration of regional industry partners and schools, working together to highlight the importance and breadth of STEM careers.
A special appearance at the event by Bristol Bears women’s rugby player, Ella Lovibond, and Jo Passingham, CEO of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, provided the perfect role models for the aspiring engineers. As a university graduate with a first class degree in engineering, Ella spoke about her passion for the subject while Jo outlined the importance of attracting more people into the sector and the opportunities that it presents.
Neil Young, our Global Engineering Capability Director, said: “The industry is facing a significant shortage of engineers, which is why events like this are so important. This event is about breaking down barriers and showing how the incredible world of engineering impacts and improves all of our lives.
“Hopefully by encouraging pupils with fun and interesting challenges, they will consider choosing STEM-based subjects as they journey through their education.
“The Babcock Festival of Engineering is the perfect way to spark that interest.”
Jo Passingham added: “It’s a privilege to be working with Babcock to raise awareness of the importance of engineering at the grassroots level. Engineers are creators and some of the world’s most important and iconic attributes exist because of them.”