On 17th and 18th of September 2025, IOM3 President Christine Blackmore CEnv CSci FIMMM visited Scotland where she experienced an inspiring and tightly packed two-day programme that showcased the strength of Scottish engineering research and its next generation of talent.
Day 1 – Advanced Forming and Research Centre
The visit began at the Advanced Forming and Research Centre (AFRC), a world-class hub for forming and forging research within the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland. The tour provided a fascinating look at how advanced technologies and partnerships with industry, such as the £11.8 million R&D project with Boeing, are helping to drive innovation in high-value manufacturing. The enthusiasm of the engineers and researchers was contagious, and it was encouraging to see Scotland at the forefront of precision metals research.
Day 1 – Strathclyde University Student Colloquium
In the afternoon, she joined the Young Engineers Colloquium at the University of Strathclyde, organised by SAM. Undergraduate and postgraduate students presented their project work, much of it completed voluntarily, beyond their formal studies, which showed remarkable initiative and creativity. Christine gave a short talk on the role of young engineers in shaping a sustainable future and on the opportunities within IOM3. The questions, energy and curiosity of the students were heartening. These are the engineers who will help lead the transition to cleaner, smarter technologies.
Day 2 – BAM Ritchies
The following morning brought a visit to BAM Ritchies, the ground-engineering division of BAM Nuttall. The team outlined their involvement in major infrastructure projects such as HS2, Hinkley Point C and the Thames Tideway. A tour of the facilities demonstrated how digital methods and precision planning are being used to improve safety, efficiency and sustainability in some of the UK’s most complex projects.
The two days in Scotland were full, thought-provoking and enjoyable. Meeting students, researchers, and practising engineers reminded me how vibrant our materials and minerals community remains.
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