Engineering Talent on Full Display

Guests and employers, getting the low down on projects by Gestamp Apprentices at the event — Guests and employers, getting the insights on the projects by Gestamp Apprentices. Credit: HCFE

Engineering excellence took centre stage at Hartlepool College of Further Education on Tuesday, 7th May, as almost 150 apprentices from the School of Engineering showcased the results of their year-long projects. Problem-solving, creative thinking, and project management are embedded into all our engineering programmes, but this was the moment for our Level 3 and Level 4 apprentices to shine.

Project Presentation Day, a key event in the College calendar for over 24 years, saw students pitch their ideas, solutions, and working prototypes to employers, staff, and guests. The College Atrium was filled with energy as visitors engaged with almost 150 unique presentations, asking questions and learning more about each project.

Mark Elliott, Head of School: Advanced Manufacturing Engineering and organiser of the event, said: “This is the jewel in the crown of our academic year, where apprentices combine classroom theory and workplace practice. The standard of work was exceptional again this year. Students spoke with confidence and demonstrated deep technical understanding when questioned by peers, tutors and industry guests. We’re proud of every single student who presented and can’t wait for 2026.”

Amentum Apprentices, displaying and chatting about their projects. — Amentum Apprentices, displaying and chatting about their projects at the event. Credit: HCFE

A highlight of the event is the involvement of employers—many of the projects stem from real workplace challenges. Their feedback is vital in recognising student progress and linking learning to industry needs. Paul Frankland, Managing Director PF Management Solutions Limited said: “What a great event, the apprentices are real ambassadors for their companies and for the college. Some great projects discussed with Venator Materials Plc, px Group, CIRCOR International, Inc., EDF (UK), Husqvarna Group, Gestamp and Retroflow. Couldn’t get round everyone as so many great options. Good luck with the projects.”

As always, there were awards on the line, voted for by employers, with students recognised for innovation, technical depth, and clarity of presentation. The voting highlighted six students that will now go forward to fight it out in a Dragon’s Den-style Q&A session with employers and staff, where they will be graded on the depth of knowledge of their project and presentation skills. Congratulations to the following Apprentices: Adam Spires (Retroflow), Amelia Harrop (Caterpillar), Mia Davison (Caterpillar), Nathan Hunter (Gestamp), Kieran Wears (NSK) and Matty Lamb (Gestamp) who will be up for the following awards; Level 3 Project Merit Awards, HNC Project Merit Awards and 2025 Overall Project of the Year Award.

Visit our photo gallery of the day here: https://bit.ly/hcfePPDay2025