University of Lincoln students benefit from college facilities

58-students ranging from 18 to 22-years old, currently studying to A Level-equivalent at UoL took part in demonstration and applied learning covering mechanical and electrical engineering. This work is evidenced in their engineering skills logbook which is described as their passport-to-workshop, showing employers their capability and project completion. The experience gained while at Lincoln College campus is seen an essential part of training to make the students industry-ready.

Prof Ron Bickerton, Industrial Professor for Mechanical Engineering at University of Lincoln, said “each student can get their skill logbook signed up and use it at interview to stand out from the crowd, showing progression from year-one to year-three where projects are undertaken in groups then independently.

“Students are given industry-set projects which require group problem solving, budget restrictions and resource management”.

Student Anna said “I would like to progress more from a design perspective and this week has given me the opportunity to work on different specification machines and gain a better knowledge level which I can use to build upon my previous work experience.”

Student Daniel said “the benefits for me include the hands-on experience the workshop facility offers and the new skills we can pick up through this industry training, in a real-engineering-environment”.

Chris Falet, Lecturer at Lincoln College facilitated an electrical installation workshop saying “it is important that these academic students are given the practical experience employers look for in future engineers, giving them an understanding of all elements of the industry – not just on the theory side”.

James Newall, Group Director for Marketing and Communications at Lincoln College said “this is a great example of collaborative working to better skill our local workforce and plug the practical skills gap identified by industry.”