Apprentice Automation Challenge finals – 17 September 2021

Teams of apprentices gather at the Manufacturing Technology Centre in Coventry for first live final since 2019.

Organised by the Institution's Manufacturing Industries Division’s Young Members Committee, the Challenge is currently the only event dedicated specifically to developing the skills of apprentice engineers in industry with a real-world engineering project. It tasks teams to design, develop and build a fully working system that automates and solves a real-world problem in the house or garden.

Following the successful online finals held in 2020, ongoing restrictions with COVID mean that this year’s finals will take place as a behind-closed-doors event. During the finals, teams will have the opportunity to demonstrate the workings of their prototype projects, network with engineers in industry and get feedback on their hard work during formal presentations.

Those taking part this year include teams of apprentices from Marchantcain, Perkins Engines and the Manufacturing Technology Centre, together with reigning champions from Leonardo UK who will be looking to retain their title.

They will be met by a judging panel of senior engineers in industry, together with the Institution’s President Peter Flinn and Director of Member Operations Jo Horton, who will be overseeing the proceedings. The winning team will come away not just with the prestige of winning the Challenge, but also a prize of £2,000 and the opportunity to present their work at the upcoming TMMX Awards, organised by The Manufacturer.

“All apprentices teams have endured challenging conditions to work on their projects this year and should be commended for their ability to adapt and overcome,” said Jelena Gacesa, Project Manager for the Apprentice Automation Challenge. “We look forward to seeing all teams and their projects at the MTC next month and wish them the best of luck.”

The Apprentice Automation Challenge is supported by The Manufacturing Technology Centre and The Manufacturer.

For further details about the Apprentice Automation Challenge, please visit the event website.