Students explore future careers at MoD ‘Big Bang’ event in Barrow

The event was delivered in partnership with Lancashire Skills and Employment Hub. It formed part of the hub's wider project supporting more than 300 students to attend industry-focused experiences that are designed to help young people better understand future education and career pathways.

Students attending the event came from Blackpool Sixth Form College, Blackpool & Fylde College, Lancaster & Morecambe College, Runshaw College and Preston College.

Throughout the day, students took part in four interactive workshops hosted across the University of Cumbria’s Barrow Campus.

Sessions included:

• A Royal Navy workshop exploring how submarines operate and their role in defence.
• A BAE Systems session examining submarine design and construction.
• An engineering and materials workshop led by University of Cumbria academics.
• A robotics workshop showcasing technologies and innovation led by the National College for Nuclear and Clean Energy.

The event aimed to inspire students by connecting classroom learning with real-world industry applications and highlighting opportunities within the defence, engineering and technology sectors.

Representatives from partner organisations were on hand throughout the day to share career insights, discuss apprenticeship and higher education opportunities, and answer students’ questions about working within the sector.

The event reflects the continued collaboration between education providers and industry partners to support the development of future talent across the region.

Stan Mcloughlin, Royal Navy said: “The Royal Navy’s Specialist Attraction Team was proud to be hosted by the University of Cumbria in Barrow-in-Furness for a highly successful engagement event. Working with local colleges and students, the team showcased the wide range of career opportunities available within the Service - providing valuable insight into life in the Royal Navy and inspiring the next generation of talent.

“Barrow proved the perfect setting to highlight the Submarine Service, given the region’s long-standing and important connection to submarine design and support. It was a great opportunity to raise awareness of this vital and highly specialised capability.

“Events like this are vital in helping us connect with the next generation. Engaging directly with students allows us to share the breadth of opportunities within the Royal Navy and inspire future talent to consider a rewarding career in Service to the nation.

He added that it was a "rewarding event and a strong example of how we continue to engage with communities across the UK to attract future talent.”

Giselle Reis, Project Officer, Lancashire Skills & Employment Hub said: "It was fantastic to visit the University of Cumbria and see students engaging so enthusiastically with the activities delivered alongside BAE Systems Barrow, the Royal Navy and the University's Engineering team. The event was a perfect example of how employers, higher education and industry can work together to inspire the next generation of digital, cyber and engineering talent.

Students also learned about careers within defence, robotics and engineering, speaking directly with professionals about higher education routes, apprenticeships and employment opportunities in Barrow. Seeing students actively engage with employers and explore future career pathways reinforced the importance of this type of enrichment activity within the DS4D - Digital & Cyber Bursary programme, helping to build their confidence, broaden aspirations and develop the skills needed for future careers in cyber, defence and advanced engineering sectors."

Jack Todd, Student Recruitment and Outreach Officer, University of Cumbria said: "Events like this give young people the opportunity to experience first-hand how the skills they develop in education can lead to exciting careers in industries that are shaping the future. By bringing together education providers and employers, we are helping students explore the wide range of opportunities available to them. We are proud to work alongside our partners to inspire the next generation."