HMS Sultan in Gosport hosted the RN Engineering Challenge ‘Exercise Downbird Recovery’, held in partnership with University Technical Colleges (UTCs), Eaton Ltd, Babcock and BAE Systems
Over 70 teams competed in the challenge, from across England and Scotland. The challenge consisted of the students building two remote-controlled vehicles, a land-based recovery vehicle capable of carrying a stranded helicopter, and a ship that can transport it to safety. The teams had just two weeks to create the finished product for it then to be tested and compete at HMS Sultan.
The challenge gave the young competitors an opportunity to learn how scientific and defence organisations are responding to technological change and real-world challenges.
Our very own Defence Munitions Apprentices based in CEMAST competed in the challenge, which included: Ethan Radford, Jordan Gibbs, Luke Worrall, Ben Oldfield and Elliot Buckley.
CEMAST Apprentice Luke said;
“Seeing the work I’ve done in college pay off is a really good feeling”.
Tyler Lewis, team leader, added
“I was very impressed – driving in the second round had improved and they showed great team work and morale”
We also encountered a former student, Harrison Clegg, that attended CEMAST two years ago. He said he thoroughly enjoyed his time studying there and that his Aeronautical L3 course enabled him “direct entry into the navy”.
Sadly, our team didn’t make winners on this occasion, however, did achieve 7th place in the second round. Hopefully, we’ll get better luck next year!
