Ideal Heating invited students from three schools and colleges across Yorkshire and Lincolnshire to its headquarters in Hull for a behind-the-scenes tour of its operations, to celebrate National Manufacturing Day 2024.
Students from Wyke Sixth Form College in Hull, Goole Academy in East Yorkshire and The Vale Academy in Brigg, North Lincolnshire, toured Ideal Heating’s production, research and development and logistics facilities, and learned about its products and technologies.
Ideal Heating hosted the event to celebrate National Manufacturing Day. Organised by Make UK, the company said the day raises awareness of the diversity of careers and opportunities in manufacturing.
John Cook, production director at Ideal Heating, said: “It’s so important that we have the opportunity to introduce the next generation of manufacturers and engineers to Ideal Heating, so they get the chance to see what the world of work looks like.
“As active and proud members of Make UK, National Manufacturing Day demonstrates a partnership that is now providing real value and shaping the way we engage with schools and colleges.
“For young people who have not yet decided on their career path and ambitions, days like today are so important to open their eyes to what is available to them.”
A company statement noted that students also visited Ideal’s research and development facilities, and had a look inside the company’s environmental chambers which are used to simulate a variety of conditions and scenarios and stress-test the durability of products.
The group asked questions on the future of home heating, including the use of hydrogen energy, and learned about the thermodynamic cycle which powers an air source heat pump, the statement added.
Ethan Pygas, 17, from Wyke Sixth Form College in Hull, added: “I’m currently looking at going into the automotive engineering industry. It started out as an interest in cars and Formula One, and then evolved into the engineering and design behind them.
“I really enjoyed the Ideal Heating tour. It was interesting to see the different components and materials which go into production, and also to learn how the business is moving towards heat pumps.
“I asked a question at the end on hydrogen energy. I’m interested in finding out more about it, as it’s a new technology and is something which is going to be important in the future.”
Annette Hobson, regional membership manager at Make UK, said: “National Manufacturing Day is an ideal occasion for our sector to highlight the exciting and diverse range of roles available for people of all ages – from school leavers eager to start apprenticeships to those looking to reskill later in their careers.
“Make UK are thrilled that Ideal Heating and one of its suppliers, Advanced Plastics, have opened their doors to showcase the multitude of career opportunities available in the region.
“It allows students to gain a deeper understanding of the links between manufacturers, further enriching their experience and inspiring the next generation of talent. Whatever it is you are looking for, you will be able to find it in manufacturing.”