University of Warwick School of Engineering 2025 Honorary Graduate: Colin Furze (Hon DSc)
The University of Warwick is awarding eight honorary degrees this July to individuals whose work has influenced global understanding, public life, and creative culture.
From international diplomacy and economic policy to literature, journalism, sport, and invention, these eight remarkable individuals are being recognised for their contributions to curiosity, impact, and inclusion. Each story is intended to inspire the next generation of Warwick graduates.
As part of the School of Engineering’s 60th anniversary celebrations, we are proud to announce that on Thursday, 17 July 2025, Colin Furze received an Honorary Doctor of Science (Hon DSc).
Colin Furze is a British inventor and YouTuber known for his imaginative and often outrageous engineering creations, including a hoverbike, underground bunker, and several world-record-breaking inventions.
Originally trained as a plumber, Colin has built the world’s longest motorcycle, a 71-mph mobility scooter, and even a motorised pram. His YouTube channel has attracted over 13 million subscribers and 1.8 billion views worldwide. Widely credited with making STEM engaging and accessible to younger audiences, Colin has also appeared on television in both the UK and Germany.
Professor Duncan Billson presented the honorary doctorate to Colin. In his speech, he remarked:
“Colin is a highly engaging presenter who clearly enjoys sharing his enthusiasm with his audience. It’s no surprise that his YouTube channel has over 13 million subscribers and 1.8 billion views. His award-winning videos, showcasing his record-breaking inventions, and his appearances in print and on television have introduced many people to both the challenges and the fun that engineering can offer.”
“Colin’s inventions are pure, unadulterated, unapologetic fun. In doing so, he inspires his audience to believe that with a little knowledge, a little imagination, and the right attitude, they can make things.”
“He has fostered self-confidence in many young people to believe that they can be engineers.”
In his acceptance speech, Colin shared insights into his journey:
“When I started my YouTube channel nearly 20 years ago, I just saw it as a way to entertain. It became a bigger classroom for me to share my projects. I wanted each build to be different, whether it was using a tool in a new way or making jet engines out of lorry turbos. Each one pushed me to try something unique.”
He added:
“As well as pushing myself, everyone watching was learning too. My advice to anyone is: just start. Whether it’s collecting materials, laying things out on a workbench, starting a spreadsheet, or setting up a WhatsApp group, just start something. You can build from there.”
As a lifelong Back to the Future fan, Colin ended with a grin, saying he quite liked the idea of being called “The Doc.”
We are delighted to welcome Colin “The Doc” Furze to our School of Engineering family.
To watch the full speeches from Professor Duncan Billson and Dr Colin Furze, follow the link below (starting at 46 minutes and 20 seconds):
https://vimeo.com/showcase/11741198/video/1102164001
Congratulations to all our 2025 graduates!