Humans of Warwick - David Cooper

David Cooper

Engineering Technician (Student Projects), WMG 

“As a parent myself, I just want the best for the students, as I do my own kids.”

“Everything we do here is student led. From my point of view, I’m just here to keep them safe and to help and support them with their projects.

Whether they’re working on a Warwick racing, rail or marine project, every decision is down to them. They come up with the initial sketches and designs, then project manage everything. From creating the business plan, procurement and manufacture, health and safety to outreach with our sponsors and business partners. It’s the whole process from start to finish.

We could just throw money at a project, or buy stuff off the shelf, but where’s the skill or fun in doing that? We let them get their hands dirty and manufacture their own designs. They’ll be mistakes along the way, but that’s when my colleagues and I can offer some guidance. And it’s not just students from engineering. We’ve bought in skills from every discipline across the University, from any year. We’ve created a safe, inclusive working environment where anyone can come in, if they pass their interview, and learn some industry applicable skills.

Engineering is always going to need your traditional engineers, but those businesses also have their own marketing, communications, HR etc. and now so do our teams. The opportunity we’re providing for them to come into the work environment, to learn the skills to back up their academic studies, that experience is invaluable. They get an understanding of how a business works and what their future could look like, whatever path they choose to take. It’s brilliant for their CVs and makes them more employable.

And we’re blazing a trail as well. Engineering is often seen as a male dominated world but on our projects 28 per cent of the team are female and we’ve seen some of them go into leadership roles in the industry. The lovely thing is, all our graduates keep in contact and often come back to support the current crop. It’s so rewarding to find out how they’re doing and how we’ve contributed a little bit to their success.

When I get to see the final projects being tested and used competitively, that’s when I get a lump in my throat. The hard work that our students put in is outstanding and to see it rewarded on the track is just unbelievable. They’re the best workforce I’ve ever worked with. My words won’t do anything we do here the justice it deserves, so if you’ve not been in to see us, let me know and arrange a visit. You’ll be amazed at some of the things we get involved in.

I’ve worked here for 15 years, and I couldn’t imagine doing anything different, it really is the best job in the world. We’re creating the next generation of engineers, making sure they’re more prepared and ready for their next steps outside of university. When I see all the roles that they go into when they leave here, I couldn’t be any prouder watching them grow and succeed. It's just incredible and that's what makes my job fantastic.

Engineering and motorsport has always been in my blood. When I was growing up, I was never out of my dad’s workshop. I started racing bikes when I was about four and then moved onto bigger bikes and cars as I got older. I still ride a bike to work every day, although I hurt my knee recently so might have to use the car soon. I have four grandkids and I’m not trying to influence them, but I have built a little 50cc bike for whenever they’re ready!”