This week, Engineers Week 2025 took place across Northern Ireland, engaging over 2,000 school pupils in hands-on activities, site visits, and interactive workshops designed to introduce them to the world of engineering. Organised by Engineers Ireland Northern Region, the initiative gives young people an insight into how engineering shapes the world around us, from infrastructure and energy to technology and sustainability.
Throughout the week, students had the opportunity to take part in a wide variety of activities that demonstrated the real-world applications of engineering. One of the highlights was the Big Bridge Event, where pupils worked together to build a large-scale bridge, testing their teamwork and problem-solving skills while learning about structural engineering. Another standout moment was a fireside chat with Fig O’Reilly, former Miss Universe Ireland, engineer and innovator who shared her journey into engineering and inspired students to consider careers in the field.
Students also experienced first-hand how engineering impacts their everyday lives through exclusive site visits to key Northern Ireland organisations. At SONI’s HQ and control room, pupils learned about the critical role engineers play in keeping Northern Ireland’s electricity grid operational. Meanwhile, at Thales, students were given a behind-the-scenes look at cutting-edge defence and security technology.
The NI Water Bus made a special visit, teaching pupils about water sustainability, conservation, and the vital role engineers play in delivering safe and clean water. Students also explored geothermal energy and robotics at the Innovation Factory, where they built and programmed robots while discovering how renewable energy sources are shaping the future.
Beyond urban and technology-focused activities, students had the chance to see engineering at work in the agricultural sector. At Lely, during farm visits across Northern Ireland, young people saw how automation and robotics are transforming modern farming, improving efficiency, and helping to create more sustainable food production systems. Meanwhile, visits to Ulster University provided an opportunity for pupils to learn more about pathways into engineering careers, engaging with university staff and students who shared their experiences.
Related: NI Cyber Sector to Inspire NI Girls to Crack the Code on Future Careers
Another key moment of the week was a visit to Silent Valley and the Grange at Castlewellan Forest Park, where pupils explored how engineering has shaped these landmark locations. Students were able to see the Silent Valley and Ben Crom Dams up close, learning about the role of engineers in water management, flood prevention, and environmental conservation. The visit combined history, engineering, and sustainability, giving young people a deeper appreciation of the profession’s impact on the natural world.
Reflecting on the impact of the programme, Clare Morris, Engineers Ireland Northern Region Committee Member, said:
"The success of Engineers Week 2025 would not have been possible without the generous support of SONI, Thales, Farrans Construction, Ulster University, Tetra Tech, Environmental Techniques, Dawson Wam, Ramboll, Fingleton White, McAdam Design, NI Water and Lely. Their contributions helped ensure that students from across Northern Ireland had access to transport, resources, and industry experts who provided invaluable insights throughout the week.
"Engineers Week 2025 has been about showing young people that engineering is an exciting, creative, and rewarding career choice. By taking pupils out of the classroom and into real-world environments, we’ve helped them see first-hand how engineering plays a role in everything from energy and transport to technology and sustainability. With more than 2,000 pupils engaged, the response has been fantastic, and we hope that many of them will go on to explore engineering in the future. A huge thank you to all of our sponsors, volunteers, and industry partners who made this week such a success."
Gerard Carlin, Director of Networks at SONI said: “We at SONI are delighted to be supporting Engineers Week 2025. As the System Operator for Northern Ireland, we rely heavily on the expertise of our own engineers to ensure that power can flow safely, securely and reliably from where it is generated to where it is needed. We are passionate about shining a light upon this very important profession and encouraging more people to consider a career as an engineer."
Shauna Herron, Director at Environmental Techniques said: "Engineers Week 2025 is a fantastic opportunity to spark curiosity, encourage problem-solving, and highlight the exciting career paths within our industry. By supporting hands-on activities and showcasing cutting-edge technologies like the drone demonstrations at Silent Valley and robotics workshops, we hope to empower young minds to explore engineering and innovation, ensuring a strong pipeline of future talent."
Engineers Week 2025 has highlighted the importance of hands-on learning and industry collaboration in shaping the next generation of engineers. As the demand for engineering skills continues to grow, initiatives like this play a vital role in encouraging young people, particularly girls, to explore career opportunities in engineering.
Read Sync NI's latest Spring edition for free here.
Subscribe to the Sync NI newsletter for all the latest technology news, jobs and upcoming events in Northern Ireland.
Visit Sync NI online for the latest technology news in Northern Ireland.
