Somerset engineering students attend STEM event at RNAS Yeovilton

Above: AET Ben Rand shows a couple of students the top half of a Merlin Mk3 helicopter.
Courtesy Royal Navy

Students from Bridgwater and Taunton College studying Aerospace Engineering had the opportunity to get up close to the Royal Navy's newest helicopter Wildcat HMA2 and gain knowledge and understanding of just how advanced and complex maritime aviation is.

Above: Darrell Nash (2nd from right) explains the workings of a Merlin engine with Petty Officer Deborah Regan (left).
Courtesy Royal Navy

These students are on the road to becoming highly skilled engineers in a variety of demanding aerospace design, advance composites, manufacturing, electrical systems or mechanical engineering roles.

Yeovil College were also in attendance and, as 2018 is the Year Of Engineering, RNAS Yeovilton held an open Engineering STEM Fair aimed at encouraging local school students to take up higher education and subsequent careers in all aspects of engineering.

Above: The students gather round a Wildcat HMA2.
Courtesy Royal Navy

During their visits both colleges were able to take a walk around the inaugural Fleet Air Arm Innovation Day, the aim of which is to encourage an innovative mind-set and culture across maritime aviation.

The students were able to view examples of successful innovation on display from across the Royal Navy's Flying Arm.