We are grateful to Avanti West Coast, valued partners of The Smallpeice Trust and committed champions of future engineering talent. Through their support of the Arkwright Engineering Scholarships, Avanti West Coast helps create meaningful opportunities for young people to explore engineering careers and develop their potential. Reflecting on the impact of this partnership, Avanti West Coast shares how mentoring, industry insight, and hands-on experiences have strengthened young people’s understanding of engineering, inspired future career ambitions, and helped build a stronger talent pipeline for the industry. Here’s their story.
How does this partnership align with your company’s goals or values?
Our partnership with the Smallpeice Trust and the Arkwright Engineering Scholarships reflects who we are as a company. By supporting young people with a genuine interest in engineering, we show our authentic commitment to developing future talent. We invest in these programmes because we are ambitious about shaping the next generation of innovators and passionate about inspiring young people to explore engineering careers. Through long-term support, mentoring, and access to real industry insight, we demonstrate our commitment to STEM education and act with integrity, ensuring our involvement makes a meaningful and ethical impact. Together, these partnerships strengthen our values and help build a stronger future for our industry.
What impact have you seen from your involvement, on young people, employees or the wider community?
For young people, our involvement has opened doors to engineering experiences, boosting their confidence, curiosity, and readiness for future STEM pathways. They leave the programme with clearer career ambitions and a stronger belief in their own potential.
For our employees, taking part as mentors has been hugely rewarding. It strengthens their leadership and coaching skills, and fosters a sense of purpose. Engaging with future talent also brings fresh perspectives and renewed energy into our teams.
For the wider community, these programmes help build stronger talent pipelines, raise awareness of engineering careers, and contribute to social mobility by reaching young people who may not otherwise access such opportunities. Our involvement demonstrates our commitment to giving back and supporting the long-term sustainability of our industry and region.
Can you share a moment or experience that captures what The Smallpeice Trust is all about for you?
The placement that our mentor arranged for his mentee summarises what it is all about:
Samraj Ojelay spent a week with our engineering team earlier this year, as part of the program, to learn first-hand what goes on behind the scenes to maintain and improve their trains. Samraj had never really thought about a career in rail, but through the work experience placement with Avanti West Coast and the valuable insights from his mentor, he gained a real appreciation for the large scale of the operation.
We are so grateful to Avantu for their ongoing support and look forward to working with them in future years to build a better, brighter future for our young STEM enthusiasts.Â
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