School pupils from across Northern Ireland have taken part in a week of hands-on learning and real-world experiences as Engineers Week 2026 came to a successful close.
Organised by Engineers Ireland Northern Region, the initiative is now in its third year locally and continues to grow, connecting young people with engineers, workplaces and technologies that demonstrate the important role engineering plays in everyday life.
Throughout the week, pupils had the opportunity to step outside the classroom and experience engineering in action. Activities included a visit to Armagh Planetarium, where students learned about the science and engineering that underpins space exploration and modern astronomy. Other groups toured SONI’s electricity grid control room in Belfast, where they met engineers responsible for managing the power supply across Northern Ireland and heard from Emma Morris, Director of Operations at SONI, about the critical role engineers play in maintaining vital infrastructure.
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Students also visited Annsborough Waste Water Treatment Works, where they saw how engineering helps protect the environment by treating wastewater before it is safely returned to nature. On the same visit, pupils had the opportunity to try surveying using GPS equipment, giving them a practical insight into the tools engineers use on real infrastructure projects.
Elsewhere during the week, pupils were treated to an interactive science show from Scientific Sue, who brought science to life through engaging demonstrations, and took part in hands-on sessions with LEGO Education, where they explored engineering concepts through building and problem-solving challenges.
Engineers Week aims to introduce young people to the possibilities of careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), while helping them understand how the subjects they study in school apply to real-world problems and solutions.
John Jordan, Chair of Engineers Ireland Northern Region, said: “Engineers Week is about opening young people’s eyes to the incredible range of opportunities available within engineering. When pupils visit real sites, meet engineers and see the technology and infrastructure that keeps our society running, it makes the subject come alive. I want to thank all of the schools, industry partners and our volunteer committee members who give their time and energy to make Engineers Week possible. Their support is what allows us to inspire the next generation.”
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Emma Morris, Director of Operations at SONI, added: “It was a pleasure to welcome pupils to SONI’s control centre and show them how the electricity grid is managed in real time. Engineering plays a critical role in powering homes, businesses and communities across Northern Ireland, and it’s important that young people can see the exciting careers that exist within the sector. Initiatives like Engineers Week help spark that curiosity and encourage the next generation to consider engineering as a future path.”
Edel Mullan from Ramboll and EINR committee member also praised the initiative, saying: “Engineers Week is a fantastic opportunity to show young people how engineering shapes the world around them. By connecting pupils with real projects, real engineers and real challenges, we can help inspire them to see the impact they could make in the future.”
Engineers Ireland Northern Region also thanked the many organisations who supported Engineers Week 2026 and helped deliver activities across the region, including SONI, Thales, Tetra Tech, Ulster University, Amey Roads NI, Environmental Techniques, Ramboll, Dawson Wam and many more.
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