Education programme set to inspire next generation of engineers at TCT Show in Birmingham

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Successful student programme TCT Inspired Minds re-launches for 2017 designed to inspire the next generation of engineers with hands on experience of 3D technologies.

Chester, UK, 19th June 2017:  Rapid News Publications Ltd, owners of the TCT Show, is delighted to announce that the TCT Inspired Minds programme will return at the TCT Show later this year. Taking place on 26th-28th September 2017 the programme will run concurrently throughout the three days of the event.
 
TCT remains committed to accelerating the adoption of 3D technologies and inspiring the next generation of product designers and engineers is a key aspect of this mission.  Industry reports deliver a concurrent theme highlighting the continued and expanding demand for more STEM qualified students and the TCT Inspired Minds programme is helping tackle this challenge head on. TCT Inspired Minds will provide over 300 schoolchildren the opportunity to get real hands-on experience at the three-day 3D technology spectacular event inspiring them to continue their STEM education and pursue a career in the 3D printing and additive manufacturing industry.
 
Duncan Wood, Chief Executive Officer at Rapid News Publications Ltd, commented: “The Inspired Minds initiative is central to the TCT mission of helping our community assess and adopt 3D technologies. Educating the next generation is important not only for the students but for the future health of the manufacturing industry as a whole. 3D technology skills are becoming more and more valued by employers and we must ensure that those entering the workforce are sufficiently well trained — Our valued partners Black Country Atelier and The CREATE Education Project Ltd share in that philosophy and we are looking forward to working with them to devise an amazing programme for the students.”
 
Previous editions witnessed students take part in interactive courses designed to complement their existing STEM curriculum right at the heart of the event floor before heading out to the expansive exhibition to look more closely at a selection of over 200 exhibitors and their wares.
 
For 2017, the classroom has been expanded and the range of technologies will mesh with a programme, developed by Black Country Atelier and The CREATE Education Project Ltd, which will encourage pupils to apply real world design and manufacture thinking into their work using a range of technologies that reflect the importance of an integrated set of tools in the classroom and an ecosystem that includes not only technology, but teacher training and the new curriculum.
 
Jing Lu, CEO of Black Country Atelier, said "With the overhaul of Design and Technology due to take effect in schools this year, the future of Design and Technology will inevitably include more modern technologies like 3D printing in the classroom. 3D Printing has been shown to have impact on student engagement, help build resilience, and prepare learners for new, rigorous, Design and Technology qualifications. Inspired Minds 2017 will give students and teachers the chance to get hands-on with the latest 3D technology, be inspired by real industry figures, and see the future of Design and Technology for themselves."
 
Paul Croft, Founder, The CREATE Education Project Ltd adds: “We believe if people are to truly benefit from new technologies they must be given access and provided inspiration and support. This collaboration fits that brief perfectly and we are excited to share our knowledge and welcome more inspired minds to the CREATE Education community.”
 
The programme is designed for students in Secondary School education in the UK. Each session will last approximately two hours and will also give participants entry to TCT Show. Industry led tours of the TCT Show can also be arranged.
 
Schools within the UK wishing to participate should contact Jing Lu at BCA to register their interest and discuss how they can get involved. The places will be allocated on a first come first served basis. Email: jinglu@blackcountryatelier.com

TCT Show, taking place from 26th to 28th September 2017, is free to attend and conveniently located in the centre of the UK at the NEC, Birmingham. Register now at www.tctshow.com to ensure your place!