25th February 2015 – Renishaw, the global engineering technologies company, has renewed its sponsorship of The Big Bang Fair as part of its ongoing commitment to develop the UK’s next generation of engineers and scientists.
The Big Bang (UK Young Scientists & Engineers) Fair, which this year takes place at the NEC, Birmingham from 11 – 14 March, is the largest celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) for young people in the UK (primarily aged 7 to 19), and aims to highlight the many exciting and rewarding opportunities available with the right experience and qualifications. At the fair, visitors will experience a wide range of entertaining theatre shows and interactive exhibits, as well as having the opportunity to meet some of the country’s leading scientists and engineers.
Renishaw’s Education Liaison Manager, Julie Collins, says, “We are absolutely committed to developing the skills of young people to help address the national shortage of engineers and scientists. This year we are recruiting 70 graduates, 30 apprentices and giving placements to 100 students. Events like the Big Bang Fair really help to spark the interest of young people and inspire them to keep studying STEM subjects.”
This year the Renishaw stand will focus on 3D printing technology – the company is the UK’s only manufacturer of machines that print metal parts – and will also include a short activity where visitors can build a Homopolar motor.
In 2014, the Big Bang Fair hosted over 75,000 visitors of all ages, who both enjoyed and learned from their experiences. Renishaw is working with education establishments and national skills providers to both promote the importance of STEM subjects and careers in science and engineering to help combat the nationwide shortage of skilled individuals.
Led by Engineering UK, the Big Bang Fair is delivered by over 200 organisations from the public, private and voluntary sectors, including Young Engineers, the British Science Association and the Royal Academy of Engineering. Bookings can be made online at www.thebigbangfair.co.uk