Igniting the Future: Construction Students Gain Valuable Hands-On Experience at a Building Site
Introduction:
In an effort to ignite passion and curiosity among engineering students, a group of aspiring construction professionals from Northampton College recently embarked on a unique learning experience. The students had the opportunity to witness first-hand the wonders of the construction industry at a training facility located alongside a bustling building site. The initiative, made possible through a partnership between renowned construction company Winvic and Northampton College, aims to expose students to cutting-edge technology, such as drones and bulldozers, while constructing industrial units for Prologis at the Daventry International Rail Freight Terminal (DIRFT). This immersive experience holds immense potential for shaping the future of these young individuals and the construction industry as a whole.
A Glimpse of Real-Life Construction:
The engineering students were treated to captivating drone and bulldozer demonstrations at the training facility adjacent to the active construction site. The intention behind this immersive experience was to entice them into pursuing careers within the construction industry. The visit, part of the ongoing expansion work at DIRFT, provided invaluable insights and allowed students to witness first-hand the intricate processes involved in large-scale construction projects.
A Partnership for Success:
Winvic, the construction company overseeing operations at DIRFT, has been working in collaboration with Northampton College to facilitate this unique educational opportunity. The involvement of real companies like Winvic is crucial in providing students with authentic experiences and firsthand accounts of the daily workings of the industry. Kayleigh Merritt, Talent Development Manager at Winvic, highlighted the impact of this partnership, stating, “Real companies make so much of a difference because they can talk about what they do every day.”
From Simulation to Reality:
Unlike simulated or role-playing exercises, the students were immersed in the real-life environment of a construction site. They witnessed the day-to-day activities, encountered challenges, and had the chance to engage in meaningful conversations with industry professionals. Ms. Merritt emphasized the importance of showcasing the evolving nature of the construction industry, thanks to advancements in technology such as drones and tablets. These technologies have transformed the construction landscape, providing students with a glimpse into a world vastly different from that of two decades ago.
Addressing Future Demand:
Industry experts predict a significant rise in demand for engineers over the next five years. In response, calls have been made to incorporate engineering education into the school curriculum. Ms. Merritt advocated for early exposure, suggesting that if children were educated about the various roles within the construction industry from a young age, there would likely be increased interest and engagement once they complete their GCSEs.
Empowering Educators:
Paul Bailey, a construction teacher at Northampton College, highlighted the benefits of visiting the building site and witnessing firsthand the application of new technologies. Not only does it help him stay up-to-date, but it also enables him to bring real-world examples into his teaching, enriching the learning experience for his students.
Government Initiatives:
The Department for Education acknowledged the need for engineering and electronics education at the GCSE level and revealed plans to introduce new T Level qualifications in engineering and manufacturing. Additionally, the establishment of 21 institutes of technology will provide higher-level STEM training opportunities. Collaborations with employers have also resulted in the development of over 350 STEM apprenticeships, further bolstering the industry’s workforce.
Conclusion:
By exposing students to the wonders of the construction industry through hands-on experiences at building sites, partnerships between educational institutions and real companies like Winvic are inspiring the next generation of construction professionals. This immersive approach not only sparks interest but also bridges the gap between classroom learning and practical applications. Through such initiatives, we can foster a skilled and passionate workforce that will drive innovation and excellence in the construction industry for years to come.