Last week, students and educators alike hailed the National Manufacturing Day event as an unforgettable experience. The event, hosted by Make UK and the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC), offered a unique opportunity for attendees to explore the world of engineering, innovation, and manufacturing.
The AMRC’s cutting-edge Factory 2050 facility in Sheffield opened its doors to welcome 150 visitors, including school students and members of the public from South Yorkshire. The event served as a platform for individuals to come together under one roof with the shared goal of inspiring and informing young minds about the vast possibilities and career prospects within the manufacturing industry.
AMRC engineers played a pivotal role in bringing Factory 2050 to life for visitors. They showcased state-of-the-art technologies, including augmented reality (AR), robotics, and digital innovations. Additionally, these engineers delivered inspirational TED-style talks, sharing their personal experiences in advanced manufacturing.
One of the highlights of the event was the opportunity to get up close and personal with two McLaren show cars. Attendees had the chance to engage with McLaren staff and gain insights into the composite components used in these vehicles.
Steve Foxley, CEO of the University of Sheffield AMRC, expressed his enthusiasm for National Manufacturing Day, emphasizing its role in providing insights into advanced manufacturing and engineering. He highlighted the event’s focus on young people, aspiring future engineers, and the hope that it ignited their passion for the industry.
Stephen Phipson, CEO of Make UK, lauded the event as an exciting opportunity for the manufacturing sector to unite and showcase modern manufacturing and engineering. He commended the various events across the country that gave young people a chance to explore diverse job opportunities within the industry.
The event featured a diverse lineup of regional and global manufacturers, including Boeing, McLaren Racing, McLaren Automotive, Hybrid Air Vehicles, Razor, and FourJaw. These companies, alongside the AMRC, AMRC Training Centre, and Nuclear AMRC, championed the industry and highlighted its impact on individuals and communities.
Students who attended the event shared their positive experiences. Ardita Berisha, a student from Outwood Academy City in Sheffield, praised the demonstrations and talks that provided valuable insights beyond what is typically covered in school.
Chris Bellamy, a manufacturing engineer at Boeing Sheffield, emphasized the importance of events like National Manufacturing Day in showcasing the boundless opportunities available in the manufacturing sector. He believed in inspiring the next generation of engineers and underlining the presence of companies like Boeing in the local area.
Jamie Hinton, CEO of Razor, expressed his thrill at being part of the event and its role in sparking curiosity among future engineers. He highlighted the event’s significance in inspiring young minds to shape the technologies and innovations of the future.
Ruben Mobbs from Astrea Academy Dearne in Goldthorpe found the event highly enjoyable and valuable for his interest in engineering.
Adrian Burgoyne, a design and technology technician at Wingfield Academy in Rotherham, described the event as enlightening. He emphasized that witnessing advanced technology and innovation was a rare opportunity for the age group and played a pivotal role in igniting their interest in engineering.
National Manufacturing Day, through events like these, continues to inspire and shape the future of engineering and manufacturing.