This summer sees a unique opportunity to be involved into the world’s first collaborative electric aircraft build project. This is based around the NUNCATS CIC vision of “connecting the world’s remote communities in an affordable, sustainable way using rugged electric aircraft, the Electric Sky Jeep, that is run and maintained by the local community”. It will run from 4th July for 6 weeks, with different teams each week. Each team will be involved in a different stage of the build. It all starts in Norwich, summer school, gaining hands on experience in building this pioneering project. According to Engineering UK, almost half of young people know little or nothing about what engineers do. Furthermore, perceptions of engineering careers are distorted with many viewing them as complicated, difficult and dirty. The Summer School journey starts in our local secondary schools, colleges and specialist education providers, phase 1 of the educational journey, informing and demystifying engineering and manufacturing careers, phase 2 application and preparing for work, an opportunity for young people to submit their CV and attend an interview to secure their place in the summer school. Places will be offered to young people from a variety of socio-economic backgrounds, including those with an EHCP or learning difficulties. giving everyone with an interest in engineering an equal opportunity to benefit from this unique opportunity. These young people will be supported by not only a team of experienced, enthusiastic engineers and instructors but some of the Aviation Engineering degree students. This will all take place in the unique space that is the International Aviation Academy adjacent to Norwich Airport, a local facility dedicated to aviation training. This will allow young people to be exposed to engineering at its best, but also learn about the rapidly developing zero emissions aviation revolution, and how it can save and improve lives in the developing world. While there is a widespread lack of awareness of what engineers do, there is also a shortage of skilled engineers with many job vacancies remaining unfilled, and a distinct lack of practical opportunities to learn engineering disciplines in schools. One of the key themes that was highlighted by employers in the DfE’s Employer Skills Survey 2017 was a shortage of technical and practical skills sought by prospective employers. Without practical experience, many aspiring engineers find themselves excluded from the job market. This project offers hands-on experience and STEM learning opportunities for young people showing an interest and aptitude in engineering, giving them a rare insight into the world of electric travel and green initiatives. By engaging with young people from all walks of life and raising their interest in a career in STEM and engineering, we will pave the way for future engineers and innovators. This is a great way to connect the Social Enterprise: NUNCAT’s and Action Community Enterprises (ACE) CIC, Education: International Aviation Academy, East Coast College, ACE, CCN and UTCN. Also, Saxon Air Charter Ltd and Vattenfall. The Summer School is offered free of charge thanks to the contributions of the above organisations and is open to anyone at all under the age of 25. Year 11/12/13 applications will be prioritised, but it is not restricted to these age groups.
