Earlier this month we took part in STEMFest24. The 3 day event in Sunderland welcomed over 3000 school children from across the North East to interact with the 65 exhibitors representing broad range of STEM-related sectors.
The dynamic, free event, coordinated by the STEM Hub, aims to ignite enthusiasm and provide clarity about STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) among young students in the North East and Yorkshire & Humber schools. Students were able to meet with industry professionals, gaining first-hand knowledge of the exciting career opportunities available within the STEM sectors.
Kinewell team members Dev, Ruth, and Steve introduced students to the exciting world of offshore wind technology through EduKLOC, our free educational game, developed with RS Group and based on our commercial KLOC software. Using tablets we provided, students dove into hands-on learning as they designed offshore wind farm cable layouts, applying real mathematical concepts in a practical setting.
What makes EduKLOC special is how it seamlessly blends mathematics, physics, and economics to create an authentic industry experience. Students don’t just learn theoretical concepts – they gain practical insights into the offshore wind sector while developing skills that are in high demand. This innovative approach helps address the growing need for skilled professionals in renewable energy.
The impact was immediate: both primary and secondary school students eagerly engaged in discussions about renewable energy, optimisation, and potential career paths. Advanced concepts like building in redundancy and cable energy losses sparked their curiosity. The highlight was seeing their excitement as they presented their wind farm designs – though the stickers we handed out were definitely a close second!
We’re grateful to the STEM Hub and RTC North for organising this fantastic event and providing a platform for companies like ours to contribute to the future of STEM education.
As we move forward, we’re more motivated than ever to play our part in guiding and inspiring the next generation of STEM professionals. We believe that with tools like EduKLOC and events like STEMFest, we can help create a brighter, more innovative future for all.
If you’d like to play EduKLOC yourself, head to our EduKLOC page.
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- Steve Ziolkowski showing school children EduKLOC at STEMFest24
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- Ruth Finch, Kinewell’s Marketing Manager and Full Stack Developer Dev Dhokare at STEMFest24
