Uniting academic expertise with real-world impact
Thursday 9 July 2026
Uniting academic expertise with real-world impact
Enhancing the student experience
Dr Rebecca WildeLink opens in a new window, Head of Business Innovation, Supply Chain and Trade Education, plays a leading role in shaping industry linked learning at Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG), University of Warwick.
A key priority for Dr Wilde and her team is to ensure that students gain meaningful, hands-on experience by working on real industry challenges alongside their academic studies. The team is committed to strengthening partnerships with businesses and enhancing the student experience by creating high-quality opportunities for engagement and collaboration.
Building on this commitment, Dr Wilde has partnered with Tata Global Internships (TGI), to design two bespoke Industry Impact Projects (IIPs) exclusively for WMG students on the International Trade, Strategy and Operations (ITSO)Link opens in a new window and Supply Chain and Logistics ManagementLink opens in a new window (SCLM) Master’s programmes.
Tata SteelLink opens in a new window
Five students were placed with Tata Steel to work on a project entitled: “Detailed Study of Steel Finished Goods Road Transportation: Best practices in Contracting, type of infrastructure available, Operation Efficiency.”
The project gave students a valuable real-world insight into global steel logistics - helping them understand how infrastructure, operational practices, and commercial contract design influence supply chain efficiency across different regions.
It also helped the students to build strong analytical, commercial, and digital supply chain skills that are highly transferable to roles in logistics, operations, and industrial consulting.
Tata MotorsLink opens in a new window
An additional six WMG students completed an internship with Tata Motors where they worked on the project “Examining EU and Global Recycling Policies on EV Batteries and Operational Landscape.”
Through this project, the students learnt how global and European regulatory frameworks shape the EV battery recycling industry, including emerging environmental and circular economy policies.
The work also helped students build strong skills in critical analysis by examining the gap between regulation, technological capability, and real-world recycling infrastructure. Through this, they developed valuable abilities in policy analysis, sustainability, and an insight into industrial systems.
A unique opportunity
Dr Rebecca Wilde explained: “This opportunity is unique in that we are currently the only UK university working with Tata at Master’s level, to deliver this programme - setting us apart nationally. There is also strong potential for expanded collaboration within Tata, including Tata Chemicals, Tata Steel and Tata Auto.
“For employers, this provides access to graduates who are not only technically informed but also trained in critical thinking, structured problem-solving, and the clear communication of complex ideas through high-quality presentations and report writing. This ensures graduates are workplace-ready, able to engage effectively with stakeholders, and capable of contributing insight-driven analysis from the outset.
“For students, these projects provide a unique opportunity to develop advanced critical thinking, structured problem-solving, and professional communication skills through engagement with real industry challenges. This not only deepens their academic learning but also significantly enhances their confidence, employability, and readiness to operate effectively in professional, global environments.”
Stuart Mendes, a WMG ITSO student, who took part in the TGI programme and had the opportunity to present his work to Natarajan ChandrasekaranLink opens in a new window, chairman of Tata Sons and Tata Group, as part of an event showcasing the TGI internships globally, explained: “I believe the TATA experience offered a significant degree of creative authority regarding the outlining and development of a project. This required a strong sense of commitment and clarity around the team’s objectives.
“I had the opportunity to work with individuals from a wide variety of cultural backgrounds and professional disciplines, which added considerable value to the experience. I believe this opportunity is best complemented by prior work experience, although it is equally rewarding for those prepared to dedicate the necessary time and effort towards achieving the desired outcome, particularly considering the access it provides to both a renowned multinational company and a respected university network.”
Industry Impact Project (IIP) application process
This is an exclusive opportunity for WMG ITSO and SCLM students. To apply, students must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) in response to an IIP abstract.
In their EOI, students should describe how they would approach and contribute to the project, demonstrating relevant skills, knowledge, and motivation - applying what they have been taught. In addition to the quality of the EOI, students’ module scores will also be considered as part of the selection process.
Find out more about studying at WMGLink opens in a new window.
Find out more about the Tata IIPs message email: Rebecca.Wilde@warwick.ac.ukLink opens in a new window