A planned exhibition at Glasgow Science Centre hoped to inspire the next generation of engineers has brought together a range of partners in the sector.
Scottish Water, RSE, and WGM will partner with Glasgow Science Centre for the A World of Frontiers exhibition, which will showcase how engineers are developing new approaches to challenges such as climate change, resilient infrastructure, and the management of water in communities.
The exhibition will show how engineering must adapt to climate change, rather than relying solely on continued construction and resource extraction. It will also promote new skills and different ways of thinking across multiple industries, with a blue-green engineering focus relevant to the participating organisations.
The agreement was highlighted during the International Water Association’s World Water Congress in Glasgow last week, where pupils from Ibrox Primary School in Glasgow joined representatives from the four partner organisations at the UK Pavilion.
The partners said the exhibition would provide a positive, lasting legacy from the congress by encouraging the next generation to think differently about engineering and the solutions society will need in the decades ahead.
Through hands-on exhibits and real-world examples, visitors will be invited to discover why future engineers will need to combine technical expertise with creativity, collaboration and nature-based thinking.
Alex Plant, chief executive of Scottish Water, said, “The challenges created by a changing climate mean the engineers of the future will need to think differently. This partnership is about helping young people see the vital role they can play in developing smarter, more sustainable solutions for water, infrastructure and communities. We are proud to support an exhibition that can inspire visitors for many years and create a lasting legacy from the congress in Glasgow.”
Dr Stephen Breslin, chief executive Officer of Glasgow Science Centre, added, “Engineering is vital to society and modern life – from the way we tackle climate change and protect our environment to how we explore space and harness emerging technologies. Our forthcoming exhibition Engineering: A World of Frontiers will seek to inspire curiosity, spark ambition and help visitors understand the key role engineering plays in creating a better future for people and planet.
“We are hugely grateful to Scottish Water, RSE and WGM Engineering Ltd for their generous support in helping us develop this ambitious project. Scotland has a proud engineering heritage, and their investment is helping us to explore new ways of engaging audiences with the engineering challenges and opportunities that will shape the future, while encouraging young people to see themselves as the innovators and problem-solvers of tomorrow.”
Martin Mathers, chief operating officer of RSE, commented, “Water is the most important resource we have, and it sits at the heart of Scotland’s future. A changing climate, ageing infrastructure and the drive to Net Zero mean our industry must keep innovating, from modular treatment solutions to smarter, data-led operation of our assets.
“Meeting these challenges will take fresh thinking and talented people. Through Engineering: A World of Frontiers, RSE is proud to help Scottish Water show young people that a career in water is a chance to solve real problems, innovate and protect Scotland’s future.”
Ian Mathieson, MD of WGM, said, “We are delighted that WGM is supporting Glasgow Science Centre on Engineering: A World of Frontiers. Inspiring the next generation is vital for the future of our industry, and we are excited to be part of an initiative that showcases the creativity, innovation and impact of engineering while encouraging young people to consider a career in the profession.”
