STEMFEST 2026
The event was created to inspire and encourage students to explore careers in STEM.
Cummins Daventry recently had the pleasure of participating in STEMFEST - a careers event run by STEM Ambassadors, held at the Icon Innovation Centre. The idea was inspired by the Darlington and Huddersfield sites’ previous involvement in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) initiatives, with those suggesting that the Daventry and Wellingborough sites should introduce something locally. With great support from Joanna Winterbourne at Leicestershire Education Business Company, they were able to set up the event.
The event was created to inspire and encourage students to explore careers in STEM, whilst helping them to understand what opportunities are available to them.
The day proved to be a fantastic success, welcoming over 150 students from Parker E Act Academy, Daventry Hill School and Badby Primary School to the event, this brought pupils of different ages and backgrounds together to discover future opportunities. Multiple STEM companies participated on the day, including The British Motor Museum, CITB, Network Rail, Crest Awards, Chilled Food Association, AECOM and Cummins.
The event allowed each organisation to showcase what they do and demonstrate how STEM careers can be engaging and accessible to all. From racing against the clock in a “Change the Tyre” challenge with The British Motor Museum, to testing speed and precision with a Torque gun game with Cummins, to exploring how anti-bacterial gel works with the Chilled Food Association – there was something to do for everyone…even the chance to build a bridge across the room!
The stand for Cummins was hosted by employees from a variety of roles and backgrounds, offering students a genuine insight into the people behind the business. Designed in-house by their Power Store Team, the stand featured a range of stickers and merchandise for attendees to take away, as well as providing the photography for the day. Principal Genset Product Engineer, Neil Williamson, also brought along his own 3D printer, showcasing his model Turbo and engine fidget toys, which proved to be especially popular.
Not only did the exhibitors express how much they enjoyed the day, but the feedback from students said it all, with some even calling it “the best day ever”.
Here’s to next year!
Interested in participating in next year’s event? Contact Joanna Winterbourne at [email protected] to find out how you can get involved.
Faye Acton – Content Creator Apprentice