UCLan plans £20m engineering innovation centre

The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) has unveiled plans to establish itself as a leader in engineering innovation by building a state-of-the-art facility at its Preston campus.

UCLan will invest in excess of £20m into the project and architects are now working on plans to turn the vision into reality. The EIC will be equipped to the highest standard with technology demonstration areas and specialist work areas to create an integrated space for teaching, research and knowledge exchange.

“We also aim to inspire and create the next generation of highly-skilled engineering leaders, ready to take on the challenges and opportunities within the UK and global economies. For instance, by 2020 one in one in five young people in the UK will need to become an engineer if we are to close the skills gap. The EIC will help to address this demand and work with local schools and colleges to encourage more students to take up engineering as an attractive career option. We are particularly targeting women who are vastly under-represented in this field.

The EIC also plans to work closely with industry, both with SMEs and larger organisations operating throughout the region, and enhance its reputation as a key engineering innovation hub throughout Lancashire. Students will benefit from real life projects as the EIC opens its doors for companies to access its advanced facilities and specialist testing equipment.

“What is also clear is that diversity helps to deliver creativity. The lack of women in engineering can be considered as just one aspect of this, having a more diverse workforce in my opinion is only a good thing. “The North West has a rich heritage in engineering and manufacturing; the EIC will locate itself perfectly in order to drive innovation and the all-important transfer of knowledge. I look forward to seeing it develop and what opportunities it brings.”