18 March 2014

A group of 20 young female engineering hopefuls has built a new ‘Severn Crossing’.

The structure was a model of the existing second Severn Crossing and was part of a  STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths) event, organised by Costain, for the second consecutive year with Cardiff’s prestigious Howells School and saw a team of Costain STEM ambassadors challenging the pupils to construct a 15m long, 3m high model within three hours. The event was designed to give pupils the opportunity to put engineering theory into practice, along with developing their team working skills and of course raising awareness of health and safety.

Promoting the industry to young people is firmly part of the Costain Cares strategy where the firm is seeking to address future fundamental industry skills gaps. This was confirmed by Costain’s Corporate Responsibility Director, Catherine Warbrick, who said: “An integral part of our Costain Cares strategy is to attract a diverse mix of talented people into the organisation. We recognise that sustainable business needs a diverse mix of skills, experience and attributes. Events like this are a great way to introduce our industry to young people who might not have considered engineering as a career option, to raise awareness of the vital skills that are required now and in the future.”

Mrs Ashill, Head of Juniors at Howells School, said: “What a wonderful opportunity for the girls to take part in such an exciting engineering project and work with the experts! The girls loved using their creative ideas as well as their problem solving and team working skills to build a real bridge, and one that could support the whole class!”

 

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