Together we are shaping the engineers of tomorrow
Overview of the Partnership
This partnership is designed so that students have access to a seamless pathway from school to future careers in engineering by understanding the skills and knowledge needed to succeed.
Students who are part of the programme from partnered schools will have the opportunity to take part in a series of specially-designed events during Year 9, Year 10 and Year 11 at Wilberforce College which combine interactive activities, as well as talks from industry professionals and former students.
Interactive Activities
SUPERGRID
- Description: Students compete in teams to design the most efficient turbine blade. Final designs are tested for voltage output, integrating knowledge of aerodynamics, airflow, materials science, and physics. Participants will gain practical engineering design experience, applying core concepts in a hands-on environment.
- Facilitation: Activities will be guided by first and second-year engineering students, offering mentorship and technical guidance.
- Employer-Relevant Skills: Teamwork, problem-solving, critical thinking, and application of STEM principles.
- Linked Careers: Renewable energy engineer (typical salary: £40,000 - £60,000), mechanical design engineer (typical salary: £35,000 - £50,000), and environmental consultant (typical salary: £30,000 - £45,000).
PROGRAMMING AND BUILDING ROBOTS
- Description: Students will program and build robots, learning about automation, robotics systems, and engineering design. Teams will compete to complete a set of tasks, showcasing their technical creativity.
- Facilitation: Guided by senior Wilberforce students, who will ensure a practical and interactive experience for all participants.
- Employer-Relevant Skills: Coding, systems thinking, adaptability, and teamwork.
- Linked Careers: Robotics engineer (typical salary: £45,000 - £70,000), software developer (typical salary: £30,000 - £50,000), and automation specialist (typical salary: £40,000 - £60,000).
HYDROGEN CARS
- Description: Teams will construct model hydrogen-powered cars and race them. Students will apply their understanding of hydrogen energy, its behaviour under varying conditions, and engineering schematics to complete the challenge successfully.
- Facilitation: Wilberforce engineering students will mentor participants, offering support with construction and troubleshooting.
- Employer-Relevant Skills: Technical drawing interpretation, innovation, practical application of energy principles, and collaboration.
- Linked Careers: Automotive engineer (typical salary: £45,000 - £60,000), energy systems engineer (typical salary: £40,000 - £55,000), and sustainability consultant (typical salary: £30,000 - £50,000).
JOINT MILLING PROJECT
- Description: Students will participate in a hands-on milling activity, learning about precision engineering and the importance of manufacturing processes. They will create a small project component under guidance.
- Facilitation: Senior students will assist with machine operation and ensure safety and learning outcomes.
- Employer-Relevant Skills: Attention to detail, machine operation, and an understanding of manufacturing processes.
- Linked Careers: CNC machinist (typical salary: £25,000 - £40,000), manufacturing engineer (typical salary: £35,000 - £50,000), and product designer (typical salary: £30,000 - £50,000).
Where can I go after college?
- University Degrees: Engineering disciplines such as mechanical, civil, or aerospace engineering.
- Apprenticeships: Opportunities in fields like renewable energy, automotive design, and precision manufacturing.
- Technical Training Programmes: Specialised training in robotics, programming, and advanced manufacturing.
Career Pathway Planning
Planning your future career early allows you to:
- Align your academic choices with career aspirations.
- Build relevant skills and gain early exposure to industry expectations.
- Make informed decisions about post-secondary education and training.
- Set clear, actionable goals to stay motivated and focused.
