Machrihanish Airbase was the place to be last Wednesday as ALIenergy’s MAK STEM Fest brought together students and industry professionals to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and renewable energy experts.

Students had the opportunity to get a bird’s eye view of ScottishPower Renewables’ offshore and onshore windfarms in action, with a flyover and a walkthrough of some of the operational sites. Whilst their imaginations might’ve taken flight, their feet definitely stayed on the ground; the VR headsets brought the sites to life to enable students to get a feel for what it’s like to work on them.

Funded by ScottishPower Renewables through its Beinn an Tuirc 2 Wind Farm and organised by ALIenergy in collaboration with BAM Nutall, SSEN and Siemens Energy, who not only provided engaging workshops but also sponsored the transport, lunch and venue hire, the event was a shining example of the region’s dedication to promoting STEM education and career opportunities.

Positioned as a mini-conference, young delegates had the chance to meet employers, like SPR, Balfour Beatty,  NHS, Argyll and Bute Council, Springbank Distillery, Tilhill, Bakkofrost and Siemens to learn about different career paths and the number of highly skilled roles available in the region .

The pupils also had a chance to hear about an exciting range of renewables projects happening in the area, including SPR’s MachairWind - being developed off the coast of Islay – with the potential to generate enough clean, green electricity to power up to 2 million homes across the UK. Alongside the Marketplace, students also took part in a range of fun and engaging workshops.

SPR has played a crucial role in supporting STEM schemes in the community. Its funding has enabled the education team at ALIenergy to deliver engaging activities to young people and communities in Mid Argyll and Kintyre and helps deliver events like MAK STEM fest.

Gillian Arnot, Senior Stakeholder and Community Manager at ScottishPower Renewables said, “Just over £1.1million has been provided to Argyll and Bute Council from our Beinn An Tuirc 2 Windfarm. 40% of the annual fund goes to ALIenergy to promote STEM education and renewables throughout Argyll and Bute.

“We’re incredibly proud to support MAK STEM Fest and see the enthusiasm from young people in the region. Our goal is to help build a sustainable future by investing in education and creating opportunities for the next generation. Events like this are crucial in showcasing the exciting career paths available in STEM and renewable energy.”

Suzy Jevons, Education Officer at ALIenergy said, “The MAK STEM event is a wonderful celebration of the career opportunities on offer. With continued support from SPR and other stakeholders, students can explore how they could contribute to the region becoming a hub of innovation and excellence in STEM and renewable energy.

“We would like to thank all businesses, students and teachers who attended the event and made the day so special.”