As part of an on-going STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) educational outreach programme, top BAE Systems engineers recently hosted a science and engineering workshop for over 80 students at Doha College.
Sam Andrews and Kai Burkitt, young engineers from BAE Systems, began their presentation by introducing the basics of engineering, using video to explain the critical role it plays in everyday life - from manufacturing footballs to the aerodynamics of a passenger jet.
Their presentation included an engineering challenge, whereby students used creativity and basic engineering skills to design and build a small bridge. Using drinking straws and adhesive tape, with coaching from the BAE Systems engineers, teams of students were tasked to build a truss bridge. Upon completion of each team’s bridge, students waited eagerly as weights were slowly stacked on to each model, determining who built the strongest bridge. The winning team’s bridge held 900 grams.
Students were then given an opportunity to ask Sam and Kai questions about their career path and the engineering field in general. Sam and Kai started their careers on BAE Systems’ prestigious apprenticeship programme and, after receiving on-the-job training and studying for degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering respectively, both are now full time employees.
Commenting after the workshop, Sam said: "It was great to see how enthusiastic the students were towards increasing their skills and exploring the possibility of pursuing a career in engineering. Our workshop, which was around building a truss bridge with drinking straws, showed that their eagerness to learn and succeed is inspiring to see in people of their age. Hopefully some of today's students will become the engineering minds of the future."
Kai added: "The interactive session at Doha College provided us with an opportunity to show that engineering can be exciting and is definitely good to think about as a career path. The workshop demonstrated that together with good leadership and advice the students at Doha College could have a massive impact on the future of engineering."
Teresa Woulfe Senior Vice Principal, Head of Secondary commented “We were delighted to have BAE engineers visit Doha College and inform and inspire our students. All of the STEM subjects are very popular choices for our students, over 75% of our students choose to study STEM subjects at University. As Sam and Kai proved, engineering has a role across all industry sectors, and is especially important within Qatar as the country’s infrastructure is developed to meet Qatar’s 2030 National Vision.
In Qatar and around the world, BAE Systems is committed to supporting and developing the skills of young people. BAE Systems’ STEM educational outreach programmes aim to engage, inspire and motivate students to discover and explore fulfilling careers in the fields of science and engineering.
- ILQ News -
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