In a unique effort to inspire the next generation of civil engineers, Sir Robert McAlpine has introduced a 13-metre cable-stay bridge to students in West Cumbria. This rare piece of engineering equipment is one of only a few available in the UK and is being used as a hands-on teaching tool to promote STEM skills and highlight the career opportunities available in the construction sector.
The bridge, currently hosted at Lakes College, was first showcased at the Lakes College Festival of Work in July. Students from local schools took part in building the structure, learning not only about the technical aspects of civil engineering but also the broader considerations of project management, health and safety, and quality assurance.
Claire Louise Chapman, Sir Robert McAlpine’s Social Impact Lead, spoke about the initiative:
“This is such an unusual resource, and it’s fantastic that we have it in West Cumbria to raise awareness of construction skills. Students building the bridge think about project management, health and safety, quality, as well as getting hands-on with construction. It’s good fun, gets students thinking about construction and, we hope, will ultimately motivate more people from diverse backgrounds into our sector.”
The initiative extends beyond the Festival of Work. The bridge has been integrated into Lakes College's curriculum, featuring in their Skills Development Week as part of the Extended Certificate in Construction Skills programme. Eleanor Fleming, Curriculum Team Leader for Civil Engineering at Lakes College, expressed enthusiasm for the project:
“The students and staff loved it. We intend to think of other projects we can do with students, because of the response off these students today.”
The future of this project is promising. Sir Robert McAlpine is collaborating with local community partners, including All Together Cumbria and Cumbria Youth Alliance, to engage a wider audience. Plans include using the bridge to support adult career changers and offering an INSET day for careers and STEM leads, highlighting the diversity of careers within the construction industry.
This initiative is part of Sir Robert McAlpine’s broader commitment to developing skills and encouraging diversity in the construction sector, helping to build a future where talent from all backgrounds can contribute to the industry.