Young people across Aberdeen joined forces to showcase their innovation and learning from their involvement in schools outreach programme, Stemovators.
Over 750 S2 pupils have been taking part in a hydrogen challenge, delivered in partnership with Hydrogen Challenge, to design and build a car with LEGO components and powered by a hydrogen fuel cell. The teams that designed the most efficient car were invited to the regional final event to compete against other schools.
Held at Hydrasun’s Hydrogen Skills Academy, 120 young people and teachers put their learning into practice to compete for one of the final prizes. Lochside Academy took home the first place prize with Cults Academy and Bridge of Don Academy coming in second and third place.
The project is supported by funding from bp Aberdeen Hydrogen Energy Limited (a joint venture between bp and Aberdeen City Council to develop the Aberdeen Hydrogen Hub), Hydrasun, Opito and ETZ.
Thomas Wild, Head of Stemovators said: “This project, only possible with the support of our industry partners, helps young people develop valuable skills and knowledge whilst learning about the career pathways in the hydrogen sector. The regional final is a culmination of the project and gives an opportunity where young people can showcase their innovation and hard work.”
Arlan Harris, Director of Hydrogen Challenge said: “We’re delighted to see the Hydrogen Challenge returning to Aberdeen with the support of such a diverse group of partners. Projects like this showcase not only our participants’ spirit of innovation and teamwork but also that of the sector and Scotland as a whole. This project is the first step in the Hydrogen Challenge returning as a Scotland-wide event and with Aberdeen at the heart of the UK’s energy transition it is only fitting that our journey begins here.”
Oliver Taylor, Chief Executive of bp Aberdeen Hydrogen Energy Limited said: “The Aberdeen Hydrogen Hub is a brilliant example of the energy industry’s ability to recreate itself for a lower carbon future. Inspiring the brightest minds is fundamental to grasping the growth opportunity the hydrogen sector creates – that’s why we’re delighted to help energise and enthuse the next generation of talent through our support of the Stemovators programme.”
Neil Thompson, CEO Hydrasun said: “We were thrilled to participate in The Scottish Schools Hydrogen Challenge school workshops and host the regional final at Hydrasun’s Hydrogen Skills Academy. Initiatives like this showcase the talent and curiosity of young students exploring low carbon technologies, and are vital for developing future skills and inspiring the next generation of innovators and leaders.”
Lauren Braidwood, Skills Project Manager at ETZ, commented: “We are delighted to be supporting the Hydrogen Challenge this year in Aberdeen. This initiative helps educate and inspire the next generation into energy careers, accelerating the region’s energy transition journey. It has been a privilege to participate in the school workshops and work with pupils across the City, seeing firsthand how the challenge is shaping our future energy innovators.”
Faye Sherriffs, SVP of Strategic Partnerships for UK, Europe and Americas at OPITO said: “The energy transition will be driven by innovation, and it’s inspiring to see young people in Aberdeen rising to the challenge through Stemovators. By taking part in this hydrogen challenge, students are developing critical STEM skills and gaining real-world insights into the role of hydrogen in a low-carbon future. My Energy Future powered by OPITO is committed to empowering young people and showcasing future career paths. Initiatives like this bring STEM opportunities to life, providing young people with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to shape the future of energy.”
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