The Morson Group STEM Foundation: Impact Report 2024

Impact Report Morson Group | University of Salford | IntoUniversity

Academic Year 23/24

Contents Introduction

2

The Morson Maker Space

3

Go Beyond: Mentoring Women in STEM Programme

6

Morson Group Summer School: IGNITION

10

Salford Racing - Formula Student

13

IntoUniversity

15

Gerry Mason Scholars

17

Primary Engineer Partnership

22

Our Impact

24

Stem Summit

26

Looking Forward

28

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As anyone passionate about anything will know, the desire to keep driving forward can prevent us from taking the time to look back. But pausing to review past efforts with curiosity can fuel progress, unlocking insights that illuminate future work. This is the thinking behind our inaugural Impact Report, which documents and evaluates the results of our educational partnerships and social initiatives from 2022 to the completion of this report in April 2024, and outlines our ambitions for 2025 and beyond.

The UK’s ongoing STEM skills shortage has been estimated to cost the UK economy £1.5bn per year. It is a problem that can be alleviated by increasing the provision of opportunities for young people, regardless of their background – or any other area of difference. The initiatives we have supported during this reporting period have been centred on the dual challenges of developing a robust skills pipeline to futureproof STEM industries and opening up educational and career opportunities to underrepresented or disadvantaged members of our society.

It is heartening to see how impactful some of these initiatives have been. In 2022, we embarked on a new partnership with IntoUniversity Salford to enable long-term support for young people aged 7-18, helping them to discover their focus, build their capabilities, and ultimately have the opportunity to reach their full potential. We also celebrated the first year of the Morson Group STEM Foundation, led by the Maker Space at the University of Salford, and continued to honour our commitment to the Gerry Mason Engineering Scholarship programme.

I extend my thanks to the entire Morson Group team, the Maker Space at the University of Salford, and our esteemed partners for their unwavering commitment to the success of these initiatives. Together, we are inspiring the engineers of the future.

Ged Mason, OBE, HonDBA CEO, Morson Group 38 Years Tenure

Contents

2

The Morson Maker Space In line with our dedication to fostering STEM opportunities for all and advocating for future-ready careers in engineering and broader STEM fields, we have established a cutting-edge additive manufacturing facility at the heart of the University of Salford. This is complemented by a corresponding STEM Foundation Programme and a scholarship initiative designed to inspire talent in STEM and engage the wider community.

The Morson Maker Space is a digital fabrication hub, powered by the Morson Group STEM Foundation, which forms part of the university’s new £65 million Science, Engineering & Environment Building. Morson Group and the Mason family are proud to be the STEM Foundation’s main financial sponsors, and its funding is the latest in a number of initiatives aimed at supporting young people, with a focus on equity, diversity, and inclusion.

The high-tech Maker Space facility features the latest industry-standard manufacturing technologies, enabling students to learn real-world engineering skills in relation to design for manufacture, assembly, and inspection and to understand the tools of the trade. It is a space for collaboration between academics, students, and industry partners, allowing students to test ideas and build the confidence and technical skills to get a job in industry.

After successfully relocating to the new School of Science, Engineering, and Environment (SSEE) building in September 2022, the 300m2 Maker Space expanded its technical abilities. In addition to 3D printers, laser cutters, robotics department, and advanced software, the facility now includes CNC Lathe and CNC routing machines, TIG welding, sandblasting, and enhanced surface finishing.

The Morson Maker Space

3

A newly integrated computer-aided design suite and AV system empower students to delve straight into prototyping, tinkering, and problem-solving. Guided by the university’s expert technicians, the Maker Space offers resources and mentorship, bridging the gap between theoretical learning and practical application, ensuring a seamless transition from theory to realworld practice.

Throughout the academic year 2022-23, the university experienced a rise in the number of students benefitting from the new Maker facility. Specifically, there was an increase in the engagement of final-year students, leading to the development and prototyping of final-year engineering projects.

As a result of the new location and updated industrystandard equipment, the Maker Space has been able to widen its reach and is noted as “a space nowhere else found on campus”. The goal is to maintain an inclusive, open-access facility for all campus staff and students, to get the training to be STEM proficient and take engineering know-how back into their studies and future careers.

Outputs of The Morson Maker Space MAKER TRAINING The Maker Space has delivered over 50 days of specialist training to staff and students since it opened in the new science building, offering water-jet cutting, CNC Milling, Turning and Routing and TIG Welding.

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Total number of days of training delivered

Process

Number of staff

Number of students

Time to complete training (days)

Total training time delivered (days)

Water-jet cutting

2

37

0.5

19.5

CNC Milling

3

18

0.5

10.5

CNC Turning

2

4

1

6

CNC Routing

5

20

0.5

12.5

TIG Welding

2

17

0.5

9.5

The Maker Space has also become a hub for essential outreach programmes and events promoting wider participation involving students from various school levels, starting from Key Stage 2. This initiative is a result of the Morson Group's partnership with the educational charity IntoUniversity - Salford.

The Morson Maker Space

4

LASER CUTTING The Morson Maker Space has supported over 400 projects since opening its doors using the laser cutter for a wide range of subjects, from Architecture to Aerospace Engineering, using 544 sheets of material.

SLS – SELECTIVE LASER SINTERING The new SLS Nylon printer has proved very popular, with batch printing twice a week since its installation in October. The machine has been used for a range of projects, producing 1352 parts over 550 hours of printing.

3D printing map showcasing the courses utilising the Maker Space:

UG - Foundation Year

20

UG - Year 1

134

UG - Year 2

60

UG - Year 3

60

UG - Year 4

16

PG - Taught

57

PG - Research (inc. PHD)

15

Technical Staff

19

Academic Staff

13

Prof Serv Staff

4

Engineering & Environment

Aeronautical Engineering

Business Management

Engineering & Production

Mechanical Engineering

Software Engineering

Electronic Engineering

Sound Engineering

School of Engineering

Aircraft Engineering

Engineering with Pilot

Aerospace Engineering

School of Health

Civil Engineering

Architectural Engineering

Health & Society

Engineering with Foundation

Science & Engineering

3D PRINTING SLA - STEREOLITHOGRAPHY AND FFF – FUSED FILAMENT FABRICATION PRINTING The Maker Space has supported over 632 projects using the SLA & FFF 3D printers using over 8km/5 miles of filament. That is 686 hours of printing!

The Morson Maker Space

Acoustical Engineering

5

Go Beyond: Mentoring Women in STEM Programme Go Beyond was established in 2020 to nurture final-year female engineering students at the University of Salford by connecting them with industry mentors. It provides mentees with vital mentoring, an industry role model, and a safe place for conversations, helping them to Go Beyond the university to secure a job in industry.

Go Beyond: Student Breakdown Year 1 students

Year 2 students

Year 3/final-year students

Introductory lunch to unite first-year female STEM students, providing an opportunity for mutual introductions, inspirational talks from guest speakers, and initiating the start of their networking journey.

Introduction to Coaching session offered in partnership with Queen Bee Coaching, a Pankhurst Trust service offering free leadership coaching for women in Manchester.

Mentoring Programme. 10 mentors, the majority of whom are volunteers from the Morson Group, complete a minimum of four one-hour sessions with their mentees over a three-month period.

Go Beyond: Mentoring Women in STEM Programme

From September 2023, the Maker Space extended Go Beyond due to high interest from female students. It now reaches all three academic years, including a broader cohort of female students pursuing STEM subjects. This expansion will enable students to establish more robust relationships with industry professionals, build confidence, and acquire the essential skills for future employment.

In the effort to enhance and diversify the initiative, the Maker Space is collaborating with Claire-Marie Boggiano, a chartered electrical engineer and leadership specialist, to design a comprehensive three-year mentoring and coaching skills package under the Go Beyond brand.

6

Women in STEM Celebration Event Launch Empowering the female STEM leaders of tomorrow The Morson Maker Space launched an annual Go Beyond celebration event, uniting for the first time all student year-groups during a STEM summit organised to bring female students and industry professionals together. This event, which will be hosted every year to coincide with International Women’s Day, showcased the vibrancy and talent of women working in STEM fields and attracted 103 female attendees.

Go Beyond: Mentoring Women in STEM Programme

The guidance and insights provided by women in STEM was truly invaluable, demonstrating how they leverage their unique strengths and differences to effect positive change in STEM careers, the workplace and beyond, aiming to empower us all to cultivate a more inclusive environment for everyone.

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This event functions as an industry forum and a networking opportunity, with the goal of highlighting the growing presence of women in STEM fields on campus. It also aims to showcase the diverse opportunities available in the field while promoting the Morson Group's investment in Women in STEM.

“

“I wanted to express my heartfelt gratitude for organising the Go Beyond Women in STEM Celebration event! The session was incredibly enlightening and engaging, and I truly appreciate the effort you make into planning and executing such a wonderful event.”

Go Beyond: Mentoring Women in STEM Programme

“The opportunity to learn from speakers and delve into the fascinating world of women was both inspiring and intellectually stimulating. The insights shared have further ignited my passion for my subject (Physics) and I am grateful for the valuable knowledge gained.”

Go Beyond panel with Maria Williamson and Chloe Hughes @Morson Projects about harnessing your superpowers.

Feedback from our mentors also encompasses past students who have previously benefitted from Go Beyond and have since returned as mentors.

Chloe Hughes, who pursued Aeronautical Engineering at Salford and now works as a Stress Engineer for Morson Projects said, "Go Beyond really helped with my transition from university to a professional role, as my mentor provided support throughout this phase.

Having an industry mentor was priceless, and I'm now honoured to return as a mentor myself, aiming to support the transition for the next cohort of female students entering the STEM workforce."

Maria Williamson, Head of Engineering Delivery at Morson Projects, commented, "I've served as a mentor with Go Beyond for four years and have had the privilege of meeting inspiring women who have pursued exciting careers in STEM. It's incredibly fulfilling as a mentor to witness their achievements and assist in shaping their new careers, especially considering I never had a mentor to guide my journey into engineering. Having a female role model is pivotal for the future of our industry to expand opportunities, and I am very excited to be mentoring another Go Beyond student this year."

8

Go Beyond: Student Feedback Ronak Rasouli, BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Data Analytics commented:

“During my final year of study in 2022, I joined ‘Go Beyond’ which is an engineering mentoring programme that helps female students confidently step into this sector. Initially, with the help of this programme, I was able to gain a different perspective on my challenges and the one-on-one sessions provided me with valuable advice from a more experienced person as well as the opportunity to expand my professional network.”

Dr. Maria Stukoff, Maker Space Director, said:

“Go Beyond focuses on students' future readiness and its collaboration with industry mentors to foster employment opportunities for women in engineering.

The continued support from the Morson Group and our Alumni network is a testament to our strong partnerships and joint commitment to nurturing talent pipelines for the next generation of women in engineering.”

Go Beyond: Mentoring Women in STEM Programme

Dr Maria Stukoff Director, Morson Maker Space

9

Morson Group Summer School

IGNITION As a component of the Morson Maker Space mission to inspire the next generation of engineers and STEM scientists, a distinctive Morson engineering summer school was developed in 2021. The initiative, named IGNITION, aims to highlight the possibilities of pursuing STEM studies at the university and to demystify campus life.

The programme was initially conducted in partnership with the Greater Manchester Higher Initiative and supported by the university’s Outreach Team. Greater Manchester Higher was spearheaded by the former Department for Education and Skills (DfES) and sought to enhance inclusion in higher education in the UK, with a specific focus on encouraging participation among students from non-traditional backgrounds, minority groups, and individuals with disabilities.

IGNITION features a three-day residential experience for students to immerse themselves in the realities of student life on campus during the summer workshop. It is targeted towards Year 12 students considering university study and is run in the Maker Space.

Morson Group Summer School: IGNITION

10

Luis, a student who participated in Ignition, commented:

“I thought it was an amazing few days & I was wounded when it was over. Although, I think you should continue doing it for the younger generations to come, because it's a real eye opener to Uni & it's made me want to go forward with the Uni life & progress further & do so much more.”

Morson Group Summer School: IGNITION

What happens during IGNITION? IGNITION offers hands-on engineering experience, as students take on the challenge of building a remote-control car whilst exploring digital and technical creativity and gaining real-world skills.

This year, on day one, students engaged in a session with the Salford Racing team. They acquired knowledge about various components of a racing car and gained practical experience by actively participating in changing the tyres. STEM Ambassadors from Morson Projects then delivered a career talk that delved into engineering and motor racing skills and highlighted the transferable skills from constructing a race car to building an engineering career.

On days two and three, students had the opportunity to design their own remote-controlled car in small teams. Electrical components were put together before the car was 3D-printed and, finally, raced in a competition. The remote-controlled car kits were made using many of the technologies in the Maker Space, ready for assembly by the students.

11

One of the parents commented:

“The summer school was fantastic, it was well thought out and organised, we cannot thank you enough for the experience you put on the students. The remote-controlled race cars kept the students engaged throughout and taught them different skills such as electronics, design, and teamwork. The final races were extremely exciting and the perfect way to end their three days at the University of Salford.”

In 2022, IGNITION achieved a notable accomplishment by being named a finalist for the esteemed Inclusion Programme of the Year 2023 award at the Engineering Talent Awards. Powered by Equal Engineers, these awards celebrate the diversity within the engineering and technology field, striving to emphasise it on a national scale. By featuring role models and inspiring individuals, the awards aim to recognise the diversity present in both organisations and among engineers. While IGNITION did not win the category, the nomination and shortlisting serve as a testament to the programme's commendable efforts in supporting social mobility in our region and gaining recognition for its impactful work.

Ignition is advertised widely, and any interested students are welcome to apply. However, when allocating places at a summer school, the aim is to prioritise students from underrepresented backgrounds who would benefit most from these activities. One of the main targeting methods is looking at POLAR4 postcode data, which highlights areas where participation in higher education is lower than expected.

Morson Group Summer School: IGNITION

12

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“Morson Group and Morson Projects played a pivotal role in enabling students to attend essential courses such as welding and fabrication, and their support in acquiring high-quality parts has significantly improved the overall student experience. As a team, we are enthusiastic about representing the university at the iMechE competition with our most robust race car built to date to win on the tarmac”.

Hubert Kasiński, Team Principal of Salford Racing 2022-23

Salford Racing - Formula Student

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Salford Racing Formula Student

Salford Racing, the University of Salford's Formula Student team, took part in the 2023 IMechE Formula Student competition with their custom-designed racing car. Salford Racing gives everyone professional experience in motorsport engineering and welcomes students from all backgrounds, regardless of degree choice, with the aim of providing professional skills to those dedicated to being part of the project.

13

Formula Student, Europe’s most established educational engineering competition, is held annually in the UK, with student teams from around the world taking part to produce a prototype for a single-seat race car, which is put through its paces on the Silverstone Circuit to discern a winner.

The University is Salford Racing’s main partner, and the team made extensive use of the Morson Engine Room, within the Maker Space, to plan, design, and build its car.

Morson Group also provide a wider support package: Salford Racing students have benefited from the Morson Scholarship programme.

Salford Racing aligns with the ethos of the Morson Group, supporting the next generation of engineers through open days, the Morson Group summer school, and contributing to outreach events to inspire students at surrounding schools.

Morson Projects has invested £10K to sponsor the car and provided additional industry training.

The team continues to make excellent use of the facilities funded by the Morson Group at the university, demonstrating that the investment is put to good use.

In 2023, more than 130 teams entered the iMechE competition, which was celebrating its 25th year. Salford Racing’s goal was to get through scrutineering and improve upon their previous static event results, which they did, achieving four out of six scrutineering stickers.

Salford Racing - Formula Student

14

IntoUniversity This year, over 130 IntoUniversity students participated in four dynamic STEM workshops hosted by the Maker Space. Powered by the Morson Group STEM Foundation, pupils from across different school levels were able to explore the exciting world of engineering and actively take part in the STEM revolution. Every maker workshop is carefully designed to stimulate creativity, technology skills, and engineering aptitude.

IntoUniversity is a national charity, offering a safe space to learn, supporting disadvantaged students to strengthen their aspirations and achieve their future goals. A partnership between the University of Salford and the University of Manchester helped establish the IntoUniversity at the Beacon Centre in Salford, receiving widespread industry support. The centre tailors its guidance for students aged 7-18, cultivating passions, honing essential skills, and fostering goal attainment.

We’re delighted to share some positive results about the centre, from its opening to now. 66% of Salford students have progressed into Higher Education, compared to a local average of 20%, and we are delighted that 22 into University students nationwide (including five from the Salford centre) will join the University of Salford in 2024.

IntoUniversity

15

Parent feedback speaks volumes about the positive impact of our programmes, with one parent expressing gratitude for the structured after-school sessions and exposure to a variety of topics. Through workshops, university visits, and hands-on projects, students have gained confidence and developed a clearer understanding of their future educational pathways.

In the Morson Maker Space workshops, students raced their previously assembled remote-controlled cars, studied mechanics and electronics, built electric torches, and experimented with 3D printing. The immersive experience encouraged meaningful connections among 7-18-year-olds by encouraging them to share their experiences. Tailored evening sessions extended to parents and guardians provided a glimpse into university-level engineering courses, demystifying STEM subjects using Lego bricks, to overwhelmingly positive responses.

One parent said: “I would most definitely recommend IntoUniversity to other families. I would tell them that it’s great for kids to try something new and that IntoUniversity gives them so much support. The sessions are really interesting and there’s such a range of activities. My son wants to be a civil engineer. He loves building things and when he visited a university with IntoUniversity, he loved seeing all the engineering facilities. IntoUniversity gives him the confidence that he can achieve lots and stretch himself, and he can go to university.”

The Morson Maker Space

Rishi Jindal, Centre Leader at IntoUniversity Salford, commented:

“We have had a wide variety of students and families engage with hands-on engineering activity supported by Morson Group. These STEM based workshops allowed students to see the practical application of engineering skills in a fun context while building real-life practical skills and give insight into what a career as an engineer might look like. Students leave feeling inspired and excited about careers in STEM.” 16

Gerry Mason Scholars The Gerry Mason Engineering Scholarship launched in 2015, in memory of Morson Group founder Gerry Mason. Since then, it has provided 53 scholars at the University of Salford with invaluable financial, personal, and professional support, giving them the confidence to reach their potential and thrive.

Ikram, a scholar completing her BEng (Hons) Aircraft Engineering with Pilot Studies degree, commented: “Being granted the Gerry Mason Engineering Scholarship was an uplifting moment. It boosted my confidence sky high. It’s an elevating experience to know that I’m receiving support based on my achievements – to me, this is proof that all my sacrifices and hardships were worth it.”

Gerry Mason Scholars

17

New Scholar

Serena Akudolu Serena Akudolu's journey into aeronautical engineering at the University of Salford is illuminated by the beacon of opportunity provided by the Gerry Mason Scholarship from Morson Group.

Embarking on her academic journey with gratitude and determination, Serena shares her insights into the profound impact this scholarship will have on her aspirations and experiences.

Receiving the Gerry Mason Scholarship filled Serena with a sense of honour and appreciation. She acknowledged the recognition of her efforts by Morson Group, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity bestowed upon her. Anticipating the scholarship's influence on her academic experience, Serena envisions a significant reduction in financial stress, allowing her to focus wholeheartedly on her studies. The scholarship's support will enable her to invest more time and energy into her learning objectives without the burden of financial worries.

Serena foresees the scholarship facilitating her access to essential resources such as books and educational materials, while also presenting networking opportunities such as mentoring, which she eagerly embraces as a means of personal and professional development. Throughout her academic journey, Serena expects to encounter challenges typical of university life, yet she is confident that the scholarship will serve as a pillar of support, easing financial pressures and allowing her to balance work and study more effectively.

Gerry Mason Scholars

Envisioning her future career aspirations, Serena sees the scholarship as instrumental in shaping her path. With newfound financial stability and support, she approaches her academic and professional goals with renewed confidence and determination.

Reflecting on her experience, Serena wholeheartedly recommends others pursue donor-funded scholarships. Beyond financial stability, she highlights the invaluable support system they provide, offering students opportunities for growth and recognition within their respective fields.

Serena extends her heartfelt gratitude to Morson Group for their generosity and belief in her potential. She acknowledges the stress and uncertainty she experienced during the application process, yet expresses profound appreciation for the opportunity granted to her. Serena pledges to make the most of every opportunity afforded by the scholarship, demonstrating her commitment to excellence and gratitude for the support she has received.

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Current Scholar

Phillip Beswick Phillip Beswick's academic journey at the University of Salford, supported by the Gerry Mason Scholarship from the Morson Group, has been marked by a profound sense of focus, opportunity, and growth. As a second-year student pursuing Aircraft Engineering with Pilot Studies, Phillip reflects on the transformative impact of the scholarship on his academic pursuits and career aspirations.

The scholarship has been instrumental in allowing Phillip to prioritise his studies without the burden of financial stress. By alleviating the need to work to cover expenses, Phillip can invest more time in tutoring and gain valuable experience, thus enhancing his understanding of engineering concepts and mathematical principles.

Furthermore, the scholarship has provided essential support for travel expenses, educational materials, and even flying lessons—an invaluable practical supplement to his theoretical learning.

The scholarship has profoundly influenced Phillip's career aspirations, solidifying his desire to pursue a career in air traffic control. His passion for aviation, nurtured since childhood, has evolved into a keen interest in the operational side of aircraft management. The pilot studies component of his course has deepened his understanding of air traffic control procedures, reinforcing his goal to facilitate the smooth handling of aircraft as an air traffic controller.

Reflecting on his approach to learning, Phillip acknowledges the scholarship's role in maintaining consistency and focus throughout his university journey. His disciplined study habits, coupled with the financial stability provided by the scholarship, have contributed to his academic success and personal growth.

The direct benefits of the scholarship, such as flying lessons, have enriched Phillip's academic experience by bridging the gap between theory and practice. These practical opportunities have not only enhanced his understanding of aircraft operations but have also broadened his skill set beyond the confines of the classroom.

Phillip wholeheartedly recommends applying for donor-funded scholarships, citing their ability to relieve financial pressure and unlock opportunities for academic and personal development. He encourages aspiring students to seize these invaluable opportunities that pave the way for a brighter future.

Phillip emphasises the significance of the scholarship in overcoming financial challenges, particularly during difficult times. With the scholarship's support, Phillip can concentrate on his studies with a clearer mind, fostering academic success and personal well-being.

Gerry Mason Scholars

19

Graduate Scholar

James Kelly James Kelly's journey from university to a thriving career at Morson Group embodies the transformative power of support and opportunity. Graduating from the University of Salford in 2018 with a degree in Petroleum and Mechanical Engineering, James' academic path diverged from his eventual career trajectory. His decision to pursue petroleum engineering stemmed from the scarcity of universities offering the course at the time. However, fate had other plans for him.

Upon joining Morson Group, James initially embarked on his professional journey as an engineer.

However, his transition into project management marked a pivotal moment, propelling him into a realm where his skills found new avenues for growth and application. His current role involves overseeing significant projects, such as the control systems for Network Rail's electrification initiative, a testament to both his expertise and the trust placed in him by Morson Group.

James fondly recalls his time at the University of Salford, where supportive faculty and engaging coursework fostered an environment conducive to learning. Despite his initial choice of study not aligning directly with his career path, James acknowledges the invaluable role Morson's scholarship played in his academic success. Beyond financial assistance, the scholarship provided a motivating force, instilling in him a sense of purpose and determination to excel.

Reflecting on the trajectory his life might have taken without the scholarship, James recognises the profound impact it had on shaping his career. From aerospace engineering to his current focus on control systems, James's journey underscores the versatility and adaptability of engineering skills—a testament to the breadth of opportunities within the field.

Gerry Mason Scholars

20

James's admiration for his favourite tutor at Salford, Dr. Juri, highlights the importance of mentorship and guidance in shaping young minds. His experiences at Morson Group further solidify his commitment to the company, citing the camaraderie among colleagues and the abundant opportunities for growth as defining factors in his job satisfaction.

For aspiring engineers considering a path similar to his own, James offers sage advice: immerse yourself in areas that pique your interest and remain open to diverse opportunities within the field. His journey serves as a testament to the enduring relevance of foundational engineering principles and the limitless possibilities for those willing to embrace them.

Looking ahead, James envisions himself continuing to grow within Morson Group, leveraging his current pursuit of a Master's in Construction Law to further enhance his skill set. With an eye towards the future, James hopes to ascend to higher managerial roles while remaining rooted in the ethos of familial support and advancement that defines Morson Group.

Gerry Mason Scholars

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“Seeing the achievements of the scholars supported by the Gerry Mason Engineering Scholarship fills my family and me with immense pride. Knowing that my father Gerry would be equally proud of their accomplishments is truly gratifying.

Since its inception in 2015, the scholarship has served as a beacon of opportunity, providing invaluable support to 53 scholars at the University of Salford. Its impact extends far beyond financial assistance; it empowers these bright minds to thrive, fulfilling their potential in the field of engineering.

Witnessing their growth and success is truly humbling and reinforces our commitment to nurturing talent and honouring my father Gerry's legacy. My mother, sisters, and I are deeply moved by the dedication and achievements of these scholars, and we extend our heartfelt congratulations to each of them on their remarkable journey."

Ged Mason, CEO of Morson Group

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Partnership Morson Group STEM Foundation has partnered with Primary Engineer's Rail Programme for the next three years to support future STEM curricula in Greater Manchester schools. This partnership connects Morson Group's engineering arm, Morson Projects, with schools across the Greater Manchester area, offering an engaging introduction to STEM and engineering skills to spark interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects from an early age.

By leveraging Morson Group's STEM Foundation and their Maker Space at the University of Salford, the initiative aims to cultivate young engineering talent, unlocking future potential and fostering early interest in engineering opportunities.

Through collaboration with Primary Engineer and the Maker Space programme, Morson Group is committed to inspiring and nurturing career aspirations, enhancing skills development for both teachers and students, and addressing the UK's engineering deficit head-on.

Dr. Maria Stukoff, Maker Space Director, said: ‘Partnerships between industry and educators are increasingly vital to help foster a future where engineering flourishes in classrooms, paving the way for STEM integration into the curriculum.” The partnership will see teachers receive training on how to build two model vehicles, one for Key Stage 1 pupils and another for Key Stage 2 pupils, which culminates in a celebration event where schools come together and test their models.

Primary Engineer Partnership

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Ten engineers from Morson Projects supported teachers during the training day hosted at the Morson Group HQ, during in-class building sessions and the celebration event, providing students with a real-life example of an engineer while facilitating discussion and answering questions.

Ged Mason, Group CEO at Morson, added: “This represents the latest in a series of investments made by our Group in support of STEM learning opportunities. The Morson Group is the main funding partner for the University of Salford’s Maker Space, a fully-equipped STEM facility designed to provide students with hands-on experience, and the local Into University centre in Salford, which encourages learning and aspiration for 7–18-year-olds from underprivileged backgrounds. As part of our strategy it’s important to us to encourage early learners into considering STEM opportunities and our involvement with Primary Engineer is one more way in which we are delivering on our commitment to do that in a tangible and meaningful way.”

Andy Hassall, Associate Director at Morson Projects, commented: “We’re thrilled to be involved in this Primary Engineer programme. The rail industry is facing a skills shortage and proactive, educational interventions like this are part of the solution! Creative, hands-on challenges are a great way of capturing young people’s imaginations and breaking down barriers to participation, especially for pupils who may never have pictured themselves as engineers before.”

Primary Engineer Partnership

The first Morson Group powered celebration event concluded with an awards ceremony, where students were honoured with certificates and medals for their participation, while some received special recognition awards for their exceptional contributions. As the young minds dispersed, the echoes of enthusiasm and inspiration lingered, promising a future fuelled by innovation and driven by a passion for engineering and STEM.

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Our Impact In 2022, we unveiled the Maker Space 2 initiative, incorporating the introduction of the Morson Group STEM Foundation Programme. Supported by a renewed Morson Group five-year plan to take the partnership until 2026, this fosters the development of the Maker Space as a premier centre for engineering and technology skills, strategically located in the heart of Salford.

This transformation included our move to a state-of-the-art 300 sqm Maker Space facility, functioning as an advanced additive manufacturing hub to enhance our flagship for engineering and technology skills within the School of Science, Engineering and Environment.

The Morson Maker Space new annual STEM programme brings together the Morson Group’s social responsibility strategy for ‘Talent and Scholarships’.

This expanded STEM programme celebrates and supports the Morson Group’s investment into education, the local community, social mobility, and talent pipeline.

Our Impact

24

Roundels in Design SCHOLARSHIPS

COMMUNITY

SKILLS & TRAINING

54

90

58

training days were delivered to staff and students in the Morson Maker Space in 2022

400

laser cutting projects have been logged in the Morson Maker Space since October 2022

686

hours of 3D printing has been delivered

students supported by the Gerry Mason Engineering Scholarship programme

students have taken part in the Morson Group Ignition Summer School

SALFORD RACING FORMULA STUDENT

100

primary students attended their in-school Primary Engineer Rail Programme across 10 Greater Manchester primary schools.

This will triple by the end of the three-year programme

63

130

students have benefited from the Morson Maker Space and our partnership with IntoUniversity

248

female students benefitted from ‘women in STEM’ activities since Go Beyond launched in 2019, providing access to mentoring support, coaching skills, networking across their year group and a STEM celebration event

Our Impact

students took part in 2023

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STEM Summit In September, Morson Group held its inaugural Changemakers STEM Summit, as part of our wider ‘Changemakers’ programme, which comprises initiatives designed to help young people, particularly those from marginalised groups or disadvantaged backgrounds, to build a successful career in STEM. The event was well-attended, with mathematician Rachel Riley delivering the keynote, which explored the need to improve representation and participation in STEM. Attendees also heard from several industry experts during panel discussions examining how educational institutions and the industry as a whole can support the acquisition of STEM skills and diversify the talent pipeline to prevent the effects of a skills shortage on the British economy.

On the run up to the Summit, we also launched our STEM Changemakers Awards to celebrate the individuals and organisations that work to inspire engagement in STEM.

STEM Summit

CHANGEMAKERS PLEDGES During the Summit, we engaged our network of clients and prospects with our Changemakers pledges by committing to one of the following core pledges: 1. Becoming a STEM ambassador Organisations pledge to work with Morson, the University of Salford and their partners to champion the social value of STEM skills and encourage young people to explore a career in STEM. 2. Providing work experience Organisations will commit to providing a selected number of young people with valuable early experience in STEM. 3. Taking on STEM apprentices Organisations will work with Morson to create a Morson Changemakers Apprenticeship route in their organisation.

4. Supporting the STEM curriculum Organisations will work with teachers in the Morson Group Changemakers STEM Hub to help bring the curriculum to life, co-designing content from single lessons to whole projects.

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Looking Forward As we reflect on our achievements we also look forward to building on this momentum and carrying it through into next year and beyond. We are committed to monitoring our progress, learning from what is working (and what isn’t) and measuring the impact our collective efforts are having in the sector. Our ambitions for the coming years can be organised into short-term and long-term goals.

In the short-term (1-2 years), we are focused on: Encouraging take-up of the Changemakers STEM Pledge Commitments and increasing our partnerships and initiatives.

Engaging as many schools in Salford as possible with activities that inspire a deeper connection with STEM subjects.

Increasing opportunities and pathways to pursue STEM careers in Salford.

Influencing the number of funding decisions that support STEM initiatives in Salford.

Helping to boost work experience supply and demand with diversity in providers and participants.

In the long-term (3-5 years), we are focused on: Ensuring that, each year, every person attending a school in Salford is involved in a STEM activity.

Helping to ensure that Salford’s STEM industries are increasingly able to recruit skilled, diverse talent locally.

Influencing new policies and funding that are positively impacting Salford’s young people and STEM employers.

Ensuring that more young people, including those from diverse backgrounds, enrol in and complete STEM-related courses, apprenticeships and degrees in Salford.

Looking Forward

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Notes

Morson Group Impact Report

2024

Notes

Morson Group Impact Report

2024

Notes

Morson Group Impact Report

2024

Are you equally passionate about futureproofing the talent pipeline for STEM industries and helping young people from all backgrounds to access opportunities in these critical fields?

Get in touch with our team today at marketing@morson.com to find out how we can work together to make a positive impact.

Impact Report

Morson Group | University of Salford | IntoUniversity

Academic Year 23/24