SC Group partners Plymouth University’s Tamar Engineering Project
23-02-2017The project is the vision of Stephen Ball, former CEO of Lockheed Martin UK and a Plymouth University alumnus, who recommended SC Group CEO, Nick Ames, be invited to become one of the project’s mentors. Devon headquartered SC Group is one of the world’s leading engineering companies specialising in the design and development of high mobility vehicles and bespoke equipment for harsh environments.
The pilot year has four of the highest achieving disadvantaged students across 29 engineering courses at the University taking part in the project. Nick is now mentoring a second year Mechanical Engineering student, Benjamin Bush, and as an employer with extensive industry experience, Nick is available to advise Ben on professional practice, improving his CV and interview techniques and crucially, providing him with a network to tap into, which can widen his horizons and raise his aspirations regarding the opportunities available to him.
Nick Ames, CEO of SC Group said: “The Tamar Engineering Project benefits both sides and I’ve found mentoring a very rewarding and refreshing experience. Encouraging and helping the next generation of engineers has to be a good thing. The country needs them. Working with Plymouth University also builds on our existing activity with local schools which includes hosting an annual open day for schools at our off-road Test Track”.
Professor Kevin Jones, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Engineering, said: “The Tamar Engineering Project very much responds to the latest recommendations from HEFCE about underprivileged groups accessing higher education. But more than that, our hope is that it will help with retention of students, and through the mentoring side, provide a springboard to personal and career development. It is very rare that students have an opportunity to gain such advice and guidance from senior figures in industry.”
More information about the project can be found at www.plymouth.ac.uk/campaign/tamar
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