Norwich Science Festival: Building a better world

Original Article: https://www.edp24.co.uk/news/20823872.norwich-science-festival-building-better-world/

With engineering, anything is possible - from new vehicles that push the boundaries of modern engineering to extremes, to buildings that reach higher into the skies than ever before. And there's no better chance to find out about pioneering engineering than at Norwich Science Festival, as Marc Betts found out.

The world is facing a shortage of scientists, engineers and technology specialists, which is why Norwich Science Festival is hoping to inspire a new generation.

One of the sponsors for the festival is the University Technical College Norfolk - which was set up with the 'vision to develop tomorrow's engineering and technology specialists'.

It has teamed up with the festival and aerospace company KLM to help visitors get hands on with some of the world's most fascinating creations.

Alex Hayes, principal at the University Technical College Norfolk, said: 'Where are the next generation of these scientists and engineers going to come from?

'Sadly many young people don't realise quite how good these opportunities are - and make the wrong option choices at school.'

'We are delighted to be working with the Norwich Science Festival to promote awareness of the huge range and potential of STEM careers and to join in with the fun of Science itself,' Mr Hayes added.

A KLM UK open day will allow people to get stuck into various aviation tasks and find out about the engineering that goes into modern aircraft.

One of the biggest employers in the East is Norse, which is also backing the Norwich Science Festival.

Sales director Geoff Tucker said: 'As employers of electrical, mechanical and gas equipment engineers the company has a need for 'home-gown' talent in these fields. For this reason, and as part of its commitment to the county's education and skills development, Norse is proud to support the Norwich Science Festival Programme.

'Within Norfolk there are a number of specialist engineering, bio-science research and energy technology businesses, generating a wide range of skilled employment opportunities.

'The Norwich Science Festival could be instrumental in helping these students gain a clearer picture of the opportunities that are open to them in the engineering field.'