Pupils from Campbell College in Belfast have built an electric racing car that will compete at the world famous Silverstone racetrack in the finals of the F24 challenge.
The challenge is an initiative run by UK-based charity Greenpower Education Trust, which uses the excitement of motorsport to inspire young people to excel in STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths).
Northern Ireland energy firm, NIE Networks supported Campbell College in purchasing a Greenpower Kit Car.
One of the company’s engineers, Andrew Cundell, helped the team ensure their car achieved speeds fast enough to compete in the competition.
The pupils achieved third place in the F24 qualifying event at Northern Ireland’s Kirkistown Racing Circuit earlier this year. Andrew and the pupils are now set to travel to the finals at Silverstone, the current home of the British Grand Prix, this Thursday (17th October).
Andrew commented: “Encouraging young people to get involved with projects like this is incredibly important to NIE Networks. Engineering roles for the future are going to be very different.
“It will be a whole new landscape around renewable energy and decarbonisation, so it’s a fantastic time for young people to consider a career in this industry.”
Peter Campbell, Technology & Design teacher at Campbell College added: “As a first time competitor of the F24 challenge, reaching the final at Silverstone amongst some strong competition across the UK is a tremendous achievement for the college.
“Our pupils have learnt so much about the importance of collaboration, problem solving, innovation and the impact that STEM subjects can have on society."
The relationship between NIE Networks and Campbell College began last year at Skills NI, an interactive event which inspires young people aged 14-21 to pursue the career of their dreams.
The energy company is again the headline sponsor of this year’s Skills NI which will take place on the 20th and 21st November at the Titanic Exhibition Centre, Belfast. NIE Networks will be on hand at the event to showcase the diversity engineering has to offer, along with their apprenticeship and graduate programmes.
