Warwick officially opens STEM Racing Centre of Excellence

It gave local students and teachers an exclusive opportunity to explore the equipment that will be permanently installed at Warwick Manufacturing Group’s (WMG) Degree Apprenticeship Centre, as part of its partnership with STEM Racing. The suite will include a Denford 2600 Pro CNC machine, a STEM Racing x Matrix Compact Open Circuit Sub-Sonic Wind Tunnel, and an official STEM Racing racetrack and race management system.

Available on an open-access basis, the facilities will support the University’s programme of manufacturing workshops, regional events and open days, giving students from neighbouring schools the opportunity to design, manufacture and race their own cars in preparation for STEM Racing competitions - a global education programme supported by Formula One.

Situated in the heart of Motorsport Valley, the Centre will also give young people access to technologies and disciplines used in modern motorsport, including aerodynamics analysis, iterative manufacturing, Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). By combining practical experience with exposure to industry-relevant technologies, the initiative aims to develop the next generation of engineers and innovators.

The event opened with a virtual address from Maaden CEO Bob Wilt, providing a powerful demonstration of the mining company’s commitment to inspiring young people to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Commenting on the event, he said: “At Maaden, we see every day what engineers, scientists and problem-solvers can achieve when they combine technology, data and creative thinking. The STEM Racing Centre of Excellence gives young people the chance to develop those same skills, test their ideas and see where a future in STEM could take them. We’re proud to support the Centre and excited to see the opportunities it will open up for the next generation.”

Professor Kerry Kirwan, Dean of WMG at the University of Warwick, said: "I’m delighted to welcome students and teachers to the official launch of the Centre of Excellence. This is a fantastic opportunity for young people to experience Warwick’s engineering expertise and engage directly with innovation and the technologies shaping the future.

“Strong partnerships between industry and education are vital in helping students see how their learning translates into meaningful and rewarding careers. Alongside developing technical expertise, they also gain the teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills that employers increasingly value.

“We’re really excited to see the confidence, skills and ambition they develop through the programme, and all they go on to achieve."