NEWSLETTER
July
/Ignition Summer School returns for a 5th year!
This s June, , the e Maker r Space e welcomed d a new w group p of f aspiring g engineers s for r the e fifth h annual l Ignition n Summer r School l –– Powered d by y Morson n Group Delivered d in n partnership p with h Morson n Group, , Salford d Racing g and d the e University's s Widening g Participation n Team, , the e three-day y programme e gave e students s a hands-on n introduction n to o engineering, , design n and d teamwork
Working in small teams, participants designed,manufactured and assembled their own remote-controlled race cars using the Maker Space's digital fabrication equipment. Along the way they developed practical skills in CAD, 3D printing, electronics and problem-solving, while learning the importance of testing, refining and improving their designs.
The programme also gave students an insight into university life beyond the classroom. Morson Group engineers Jon Callahan and Chris Summers shared their career journeys and the exciting opportunities available within engineering, while members of Salford Racing introduced students to Formula Student and student life through a series of interactive activities. From identifying race car components and taking on a pit crew challenge and sim racing, students gained a real taste of motorsport engineering before putting their own creations to the test.
The final afternoon saw the teams go head-to-head on the race track, competing in fastest lap, relay and drag race challenges before celebrating the winners at the Ignition Awards.
Student feedback highlighted just how much the practical, hands-on approach resonated. One participant said, "The building process and full independence made for a good learning experience," while another reflected, "We failed many times but we did not give up." Another student commented, "It was really fun getting hands-on experience with the machines," capturing the enthusiasm and resilience shown throughout the three days.
