Arconic Foundation grants
The University of Sheffield has received a $100,000 grant from Arconic Foundation to support the institute’s adoption of contemporary technologies, such as additive manufacturing and robotics.
Arconic Foundation is the independent philanthropic division of Arconic Inc., the advanced materials company with experience in a number of modern manufacturing technologies. The 100k grant, which equates to £75,000, was delivered through Arconic Foundation’s Advanced Manufacturing Education Grant Program. This program was launched to address the shift in manufacturing from traditional methods to the likes of additive manufacturing and automation. Moreover, the program aims to ensure that the skills of manufacturing personnel can keep pace with the rapid transition of technology.
Those studying Materials Science and Aerospace Engineering at the University of Sheffield will benefit directly from the grant, as it is used to update equipment and software, and enhance final year projects by including learning experiences with local employers.
“We are delighted to have been awarded this grant to improve our graduates’ readiness for the expanding metals and aerospace manufacturing sector,” said Professor Neil Hyatt, Head of Department of Materials Science & Engineering at the University of Sheffield. “The funds will allow us to invest in our metals processing facilities and modelling software capabilities, even equipping students in additive manufacturing techniques.”
Harry Klein, UK Country Manager, Arconic added: “The demanding nature of the advanced manufacturing sector requires exceptional talent with skills vital to drive conventional and emerging engineering techniques and technologies, especially in aerospace. Partnering with the [University of Sheffield] helps to build a world-leading educational platform.”
Arconic is one of the leading suppliers to the UK aerospace sector. It has 16 major manufacturing locations inside the UK, with six of those in the Sheffield City region. But Arconic Foundation’s outreach extends further than the UK. The University of Sheffield is just one of six educational organisations in four countries benefitting from the Arconic Foundation investment, which amounts to $600,000, or £465,000, in total.
In the US, Ivy Tech Community College, Lafayette, Indiana; Muskegon Community College, Muskegon, Michigan; and Pellissippi State Community College, Knoxville, Tennessee will all receive a grant of the same total. Meanwhile, in Germany, the Cologne Institute for Economic Research, in coordination with Hochschule Fresenius Dusseldorf will also be recipients of a grant, as will Obuda University in Szekesfehervar, Hungary.
“Investing in education is crucial to the health of economies around the world; it improves our communities, empowers individuals economically, and enhances the competitiveness of businesses and industry," said Esra Ozer, President, Arconic Foundation. "Through partnerships with academic institutions we help ensure that the next generation is prepared and excited for careers in advanced manufacturing.”
Throughout the next two years, these institutes expect to educate 375 students with the help of these grants, providing a boost to their STEM programs.
