Engineering Educators Community Annual Forum – Join us at Warwick
We're delighted to share the full agenda for what promises to be a landmark event for our community — and the first time we've come together in person.
Is engineering education meeting the challenges of tomorrow?
Tuesday 28 July 2026 | Warwick Manufacturing Group, University of Warwick
Mechanical engineers are on the front line of some of the world's most pressing challenges, from climate change to sustainable infrastructure. But as industry expectations evolve rapidly, a vital question follows: are our education pathways keeping pace? This forum brings together IMechE's Engineering Educators Community with national policy and industry experts to tackle that question.
The day opens at 10.00 with a welcome from Prof. Helen James OBE, Chair of IMechE's Education & Skills Strategy Board, and Prof. Rob Thornton, Chair of the Engineering Educators Community and Associate Dean at WMG. A national skills policy overview and data-led analysis of engineering education today will set the scene before the morning's centrepiece: a panel debate exploring how well prepared today's graduates, apprentices and technicians really are for careers in mechanical engineering.
After lunch, a second panel debate shifts focus to the future, examining how educators and employers can work together more effectively, with models of engagement from the UK and beyond. The afternoon runs parallel accreditation workshops covering both AHEP and AAQA processes, offering a practical, interactive space to share good practice and get your questions answered.
The day closes with an exclusive tour of WMG's world-leading research and education facilities, a fitting end to what should be a rich and inspiring day.
We are looking forward to a very interactive day, as almost every session will have extensive opportunities for all attendees to engage and ask questions. The outputs of the event will inform IMechE activities and policy in support of the Engineering Educators Community and influencing the national education landscape.
To register and for more details, visit the website. We will confirm more speakers and participants in our panel discussions in the coming days.
We very much hope to see you there.
.jpg?sfvrsn=12325b11_2)
Building Future STEM Skills with Industrial Cadets
Thursday, 10 September | 12:00pm–1:00pm
Discover how Industrial Cadets, a nationally recognised programme delivered by the Engineering Development Trust (EDT), is inspiring the next generation of engineers and innovators.
Designed for young people aged 9–21, the Industrial Cadets programme provides valuable opportunities to engage with STEM through real-world experiences. Participants develop employability skills, tackle hands-on project challenges, and benefit from professional mentoring while gaining insight into future career pathways.
As a supporter of EDT's work, IMechE is pleased to invite members and STEM Ambassadors to learn more about the programme and its impact. Join this webinar to explore how Industrial Cadets helps bridge the gap between education and industry, and discover how you, your organisation, or your company can get involved in nurturing tomorrow's engineering talent.
Whether you're already supporting young people through STEM outreach or looking for new ways to make an impact, this session will show how you can help develop the engineering talent of the future.
Register today and find out how you can support the next generation of engineers.
Building future STEM skills with Industrial Cadets
(1)(1).jpg?sfvrsn=232e5b11_2)
Midland Region IMechE STEM Ambassadors Inspire Thousands Across Major Summer Events
It has been an exceptionally busy and successful period for the Midland Region, with IMechE members supporting some of the UK's largest STEM engagement events and inspiring tens of thousands of young people to explore engineering.
The season began at The Big Bang Fair at Birmingham's NEC, where more than 20,000 students from Years 6–8 attended the UK's largest STEM event. Supported by volunteers from across the Region, IMechE stand featured a range of engineering exhibits, including jet engine, four-stroke engine, Stirling engine and wind turbine models, alongside careers information and interactive discussions about engineering pathways. The stand was further enhanced by Birmingham City University's Formula Student team, whose simulator and race car components proved a major attraction.
The team then moved to the RAF Cosford Air Show STEM Hangar, which welcomed over 50,000 visitors. IMechE volunteers delivered hands-on activities, including the ever-popular model plane flying competition, which attracted more than 350 participants. Visitors also enjoyed opportunities to learn about repair and sustainability through Birmingham City University's repair team and meet Birmingham University's Boston Dynamics "Spot" robot dog, which drew significant interest throughout the event.
Just days later, the team travelled to Morecambe Armed Forces Day, where the IMechE joined forces with the RAF STEM team to deliver another highly successful outreach event. Interactive exhibits, engineering challenges and the popular "Pinball Quizzard" kept visitors engaged throughout the day, while “Spot” the robot dog once again proved a crowd favourite.
Alongside these flagship events, Area Panels and Young Members groups have remained active across the Region, supporting activities including IMechE’s Design Challenge, Greenpower Goblin events, community STEM festivals, school STEM days and the Primary Engineer "If You Were an Engineer – What Would You Do?" programme.
A huge thank you to all the volunteers whose enthusiasm, expertise and commitment continue to inspire the next generation of engineers. With more events planned throughout the summer, the Midland Region outreach programme shows no signs of slowing down!
(1).png?sfvrsn=ea335b11_2)
New Bitesize Training: How to Talk to Teenagers About Engineering
STEM Volunteering: How to Talk to Teenagers About Engineering! - YouTube
Want to inspire young people but unsure how to make engineering relevant and engaging for a teenage audience?
Our latest bitesize training video with Dr Shini Somara, STEM Volunteering: How to Talk to Teenagers About Engineering, shares practical tips and advice to help you communicate effectively with young people and spark their interest in engineering careers.
In this short training video, you'll learn:
- How to capture teenagers' attention from the start
- Ways to make engineering relatable and relevant
- Tips for sharing your experiences in an engaging and accessible way
- How to inspire the next generation of engineers through education outreach volunteering
Watch the training video and discover how small changes to your approach can make a big difference to young people's engagement with engineering!
This video forms part of IMechE's new collection of bitesize training resources, designed to support members in delivering impactful education outreach activities.
By joining IMechE's Education Programme and accessing our training resources, you can play an important role in supporting the Institution's mission of Improving the world through engineering.
---keep(92)(1).png?sfvrsn=b335b11_2)
IMechE’s 2026/2027 Virtual Work Experience Programme Launches
The Institution of Mechanical Engineers' 206-2027 Virtual Work Experience Programme is now open to students in Years 9–13!
This engaging programme provides a valuable insight into the engineering profession and highlights the vital role mechanical engineers play in tackling some of the world's biggest challenges. Students will discover what mechanical engineers do, the skills they need, and the exciting career opportunities available within the profession.
What’s covered?
Participants will explore a range of fascinating topics, including:
- What is Mechanical Engineering?
- Exploring the Future of Energy: Space-Based Solar Power
- Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Automation in Engineering
- Healthcare, Biomedical and Sports Engineering
- How to Become an Engineer: Routes into the Profession
Save the Date
Students, teachers, parents and STEM Ambassadors are invited to join our upcoming live webinars:
Engineering the future of healthcare: Meet the experts
Wednesday, 23 September - 4:30pm
Driving the future: how AI is transforming cars and careers
Monday, 30 November - 4:30pm
These webinars are open to all and provide an excellent opportunity to learn more about careers in mechanical engineering.
For further information and to watch the programme trailer, visit the Mechanical Engineering Virtual Work Experience page.
Primary Engineer’s regional 'If you were an engineer' public exhibitions and awards events are well underway!
An exciting showcase of imagination from young people aged 3–19, these events feature local students’ answers to the question, “If you were an engineer, what would you do?”-tackling real-world problems through the eyes of the next generation of engineers across the UK.
Open to all, the exhibitions offer a fantastic opportunity to discover inventive projects, celebrate achievements, and support the engineers of tomorrow within your local community.
We would especially love to welcome you, not only to see the work on display but to chat with pupils and their families, share your own experiences, and inspire the next generation in a truly meaningful way.
Primary Engineer’s regional 'If you were an engineer' public exhibitions and awards are running from 13 May - 9 July, across the UK. Simply register on Primary Engineer's website links below for one (or more) near to you and join us in-person for an uplifting day - we can’t wait to welcome you! Book your place at Exhibitions and Awards – Leaders Award
(1)(1).jpg?sfvrsn=a62e5b11_2)
IMechE is proud to partner with STEMAZING
IMechE is proud to partner with STEMAZING - the non-profit that trains and supports women in STEM to 'level-up' as visible role models. This year we sponsored 12 places on the 11th round of the STEMAZING Inspiration Academy for our members. They have now completed this 3-month CPD-certified programme which builds confidence, communication and engagement skills as visible role models. The programme culminates in each member delivering a series of 4 different STEMAZINGKids hands-on inspiring STEM workshops to primary school children around the country. Congratulations to everyone who took part from IMechE. If you're interested in finding out more visit the website. Whether you’re early in your career or an experienced professional, you’ll join a supportive community and develop skills that benefit both your outreach and professional development.
0712368e54216d0c8310ff0100d05193.png?sfvrsn=ac335b11_2)
Get Active This Summer with the BBC micro:bit
Looking for a fun way to combine sport, physical activity and coding this summer? The BBC micro:bit offers a range of free resources and projects designed to get young people moving while developing their digital skills.
With built-in features such as an accelerometer, compass and Bluetooth connectivity, the micro makes computing hands-on and interactive. Students can code and use projects anywhere, from step counters and activity pickers to treasure hunts and dance games.
Explore Sport and AI
Students can:
- Track activity and performance data
- Measure kick strength and analyse results
- Create movement-based games
- Investigate AI through sports-themed projects, including an AI Exercise Timer and AI Sports Data Logger
Free Resources and Training
Access a range of free support materials, including:
- Sports-themed classroom activities and units of work
- Free webinars on using the micro across the curriculum
- A summer class code-along activity
- Beginner guides and self-paced professional development courses
Whether you're new to the micro:bit or looking for fresh STEM engagement ideas, there's something for everyone.
Visit the
micro:bit website to explore the full range of sports-themed activities and resources.
