MTA – investing in youth

While the primary function of the Manufacturing Technology Association (MTA) over the course of its near-100 year history has been to serve and represent its members, its remit extends far beyond simply lobbying government.

The MTA is responsible for organising the biennial MACH show, the UK’S biggest exhibition of advanced manufacturing capabilities, and takes an active role in inspiring the next generation of pioneering designers and engineers through its Technology, Design and Innovation (TDI) Challenge.

Held since 2003, the TDI Challenge encourages aspiring engineers in the 14-16 and 17-19 age brackets from schools and colleges across the country to submit innovative solutions to a panel of expert MTA judges. For the first time, group projects for teams of three to six students will also be admitted to help foster collaborative skills.

The final will be held at Mazak’s Worcester plant in July, where among other criteria the creativity and innovation of the concept, quality of manufacture and commercial viability will decide the winner. Former winners include a bicycle phone charging system, water heating stove for outdoor expeditions and an intuitive cycle helmet.