The Education and Development (E&D) Zone at MACH 2024 is once again being sponsored by global metalcutting specialist Sandvik Coromant. Having sponsored the zone since its introduction at MACH 2012, Sandvik Coromant’s continued support demonstrates the company’s commitment to inspiring the next generation of engineers to join the manufacturing technologies sector. The E&D Zone is the educational hub at MACH 2024 and is designed for students keen to explore what engineering-based manufacturing can offer them as a future career.

Sophie Laurent, marketing manager – sales area South and West Europe for Sandvik Coromant, said: “The shortage of skilled engineers joining the manufacturing sector is still a major issue for many companies who will visit or exhibit at MACH 2024. The E&D Zone is designed to challenge the next generation to consider engineering-based manufacturing as a career, through thought-provoking interactive displays, hands on activities and interaction with apprentices who have already been inspired to choose this as a career path.”

A crucial part of the E&D Zone is guided tours of the exhibition, where students can learn more about the latest manufacturing technologies being developed and deployed in UK industry, and get to learn about potential career paths and opportunities - even providing guidance on the manufacturing and engineering companies that are recruiting UK apprentices.

James Selka, CEO at the Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA), which owns and organises MACH 2024, said: “Attracting new talent into the engineering-based manufacturing sector is a key driver for the MTA. The dedicated E&D Zone at MACH continues to be our biggest opportunity to inspire a future generation into engineering as an exciting career.”

With over 3,000 students in the key age range of 11-18 expected to attend the event this year, MACH 2024 promises to provide lots for them to see and experience with interactive activities organised by key contributors including F1 in Schools, University of Wolverhampton Racing, Vex Robotics and the National Physical Laboratory.

Mr Selka concluded: “At the MTA, we are very grateful to Sandvik Coromant for its continued support – both in the sponsorship of the zone but also in helping to provide students with a unique opportunity to interact with role models from industry, while finding out valuable careers advice.”

Schools and students are encouraged to register their interest in attending the E&D Zone in advance of the event by visiting the MACH website here. Parents and guardians are also welcome to register.