Arconic Foundation Grant to Inspire the Next Generation of Engineers in Birmingham

EDT is delighted to announce a new grant from the Arconic Foundation which will help 400 young people from Birmingham explore exciting futures in engineering.

The funding will support EDT's new Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering Futures pathway, providing hands-on STEM experiences and industry-informed learning opportunities for young people aged 12–14.

Launching in the 2026/2027 academic year, the programme will work with schools in communities surrounding Arconic's Kitts Green site, with a focus on engaging young people from backgrounds that are currently underrepresented in STEM. Through a combination of Industrial Cadets Challenger Experience Days and Bronze-level mentored projects, students will develop practical STEM knowledge alongside essential employability skills such as teamwork, communication, problem solving and resilience.

The project will also help young people gain a deeper understanding of STEM careers and the different routes available to them, including apprenticeships and university pathways. Every student who completes the programme will achieve an Industrial Cadets award, recognising their commitment and achievements.

Sarah Steele, Programme Lead for the Midlands at EDT, said:

"We are incredibly grateful to the Arconic Foundation for investing in young people across Birmingham. This support will help us inspire and inform 400 students about the exciting in engineering and advanced manufacturing, while building the skills and confidence they need to pursue their ambitions. Together, we can help ensure that talent and potential - not background - determine who succeeds in STEM."

If you are a company, grant maker or philanthropist interested in breaking down barriers to STEM education and careers we'd love to hear from you - contact Liz on philanthropy@etrust.org.uk.