The worlds of high-performance motorsport and cutting-edge space technology have found common ground through an innovative partnership between Total Carbide and Silverstone University Technical College (UTC). This collaboration shows how industry expertise can directly enhance educational opportunities, creating pathways for the next generation of engineers.
Bridging education and industry
As a long-standing tenant of Westcott Venture Park and integral member of the Westcott Space Cluster, Total Carbide has established itself as more than just a manufacturing facility. The company serves as an approved work experience provider through Proactive Education, opening its doors to students from Silverstone UTC and other educational institutions seeking real-world engineering experience.
The partnership focuses particularly on students pursuing the High Performance Engineering course at Silverstone UTC. This specialised program goes far beyond traditional curriculum boundaries, equipping students with practical skills in workshop practices, engineering mathematics, electrical principles, computer-aided design and manufacture, materials testing, quality control, pneumatics, welding and electronics.
Engineering excellence at Silverstone UTC
Silverstone UTC's Engineering faculty boasts advanced technology that matches the best available to industry, providing students with hands-on experience using professional-grade equipment. The curriculum has been carefully crafted to create 'engineers' ready for either further study or high-quality apprenticeships.
A highlight of the program is the end-of-year project, where students compete for the Engineering Student of the Year award, supported by Mercedes AMG HPP. These projects provide a unique opportunity for students to integrate their theoretical knowledge and practical skills, bringing their innovative ideas to life. At the annual project showcase, students meet potential employers who are actively seeking talented future employees—many students have secured employment opportunities directly from these events.
From space to students
Total Carbide brings impressive credentials to this educational partnership. As Europe's leading manufacturer of sintered Tungsten Carbide wear parts, the company operates at the forefront of precision engineering. Their expertise spans 40 different industries, producing bespoke products for everything from measurement tools and cutting knives to complex applications requiring specialised corrosion-resistant materials.
The company's breakthrough technology in space propulsion has positioned them as a leader in providing nozzles for rockets and aerospace components. Their work directly supports the space and rocketry sector, bringing innovations to life through skilled, high precision manufacturing processes.
"Through constant evaluation of our methods and processes, we have developed a unique approach which ensures customers receive a rapid, bespoke service and superior, high quality, finished hardmetal products which will exceed specification," explains Andreas Hohmann, Managing Director of Total Carbide.
A community of innovation
This partnership reflects the broader collaborative spirit of the Westcott Space Cluster. Total Carbide's involvement extends beyond education into multiple community initiatives. The company is a proud sponsor and supporter of the Silverstone F1 Revolution STEM Racing team, participates in the Government's SPRINT programme for innovative firms, and maintains memberships in Buckingham Business First and the Sustainable Business Network.
As a Defence Employer, Total Carbide demonstrates additional commitment to community service by offering placements and internships for members of the armed forces community and supporting Bucks Uniformed Youth (BUY).
Future engineers in the making
The collaboration between Total Carbide and Silverstone UTC represents more than a work experience program - it's a bridge between theoretical learning and practical application. Students gain invaluable exposure to real manufacturing environments while contributing to projects that span from Formula 1 technology to space exploration.
Students like Thomas Williams who is 17 from North Marston, Buckinghamshire, demonstrate the real value of this partnership. Thomas is completing a one-year academic internship at Total Carbide, working two days a week during term time from 2024 to 2025, where he has gained hands-on experience in CAD design, precision engineering, manufacturing, and quality control, working on a variety of bespoke engineered products and the specialised tools required to manufacture them.
Similarly, Nathan Boyle who is also 17 from Winslow, Buckinghamshire, recently completed an intensive one-week work experience placement at Total Carbide. During his time with the company, Nathan was involved in precision manufacturing and in-process control, gaining valuable insights into the exacting standards required in high-performance engineering.
Both students have contributed to the manufacture of components that have real-world applications in critical industries, including parts used in Rolls-Royce aero engines. This direct involvement in projects that will eventually power aircraft demonstrates the calibre of work experience available through this partnership.
This partnership ensures that the next generation of engineers will be well-prepared for careers in high-profile organisations across Formula 1, automotive, national security, travel, and construction industries. With both organisations committed to excellence and innovation, the future looks bright for engineering education in the region.
Photo caption from left to right: Thomas Williams and Nathan Boyle.
