Students Rise to the Challenge at UK Manufacturing Skills Event

Published 9th July 2025

The Design & Technology Association was delighted to attend this year’s ‘Design & Make Challenge’, held on Tuesday 8 July at the University of Warwick and hosted by WMG. Our curriculum consultant Lol Conway popped down to the event to meet with industry leaders, teachers and nearly 100 students for a day focused on tackling engineering challenges and building enthusiasm for careers in UK manufacturing.

Organised by the Manufacturing Assembly Network (MAN Group), the event brought together 15 schools for an energetic, hands-on competition. Students were tasked with designing and building a vehicle capable of traveling from one end of a track to the other. Students had to create a method to move the vehicle along the track, potentially using air pressure, magnets, or other innovative means. The challenge encouraged teamwork, creative problem-solving and practical engineering, all essential skills for the next generation of innovators.

The day began with a warm welcome over tea and biscuits, before students were introduced to the challenge brief. From that moment on, teams were fully immersed in the design and build process. Breaks for refreshments and a pizza lunch helped keep energy levels high as the day progressed.

By mid-afternoon, build time came to an end and the focus shifted to testing. Each team’s creation was put through its paces, with industry judges observing. Awards were presented for both technical success and teamwork, celebrating the wide range of skills on display.

The event was a emphasised collaboration, with students tackling real-world engineering challenges head-on. Lol Conway noted, "Students were challenged to propel a vehicle from one end of the track to the other, drawing inspiration from the Hyperloop concept. From the outset, they were fully engaged, demonstrating creativity, collaboration, and impressive teamwork throughout the day. With guidance from dedicated volunteer engineers, they achieved fantastic results and honed key engineering skills such as problem-solving and resilience. It was a pleasure to witness such an enthusiastic and energised group of students.”

While the event was fun and engaging, it also addressed serious concerns facing UK manufacturing. The sector is experiencing a significant shortage of skilled workers, particularly in STEM roles. Engineering UK estimates more than 170,000 new engineers and technicians are needed annually to meet demand through to 2030. Initiatives like the ‘Design & Make Challenge’ play a vital role in sparking early interest and building essential skills in young people.

Events like this show what’s possible when schools and industry work together to inspire students and prepare them for meaningful careers. With plans already in motion for next year’s challenge, the MAN Group is calling on more schools, sponsors and partners to get involved.