Engineers Week 2026 Ignites STEM Passion in Northern Ireland's Youth

Young minds across Northern Ireland recently wrapped up an inspiring Engineers Week 2026, a fantastic initiative that saw pupils engage in hands-on learning and real-world experiences. Organised by Engineers Ireland Northern Region, this programme, now in its third successful year, is dedicated to connecting young people with engineers, workplaces, and the incredible technologies that shape our daily lives.

Throughout the week, students had the unique opportunity to step out of the classroom and witness engineering in action. Activities included insightful visits to places like Armagh Planetarium, where they learned about the science behind space exploration, and a tour of SONI’s electricity grid control room in Belfast. At SONI, pupils met engineers managing Northern Ireland’s power supply and heard from Director of Operations, Emma Morris, on the critical role of maintaining vital infrastructure.

Pupils also visited Annsborough Waste Water Treatment Works, gaining first-hand insight into how engineering protects our environment by treating wastewater before its safe return to nature. During this visit, they even tried out surveying with GPS equipment, offering a practical glimpse into the tools used on real infrastructure projects. The week was also packed with fun, featuring an interactive science show by Scientific Sue and hands-on sessions with LEGO Education, encouraging problem-solving through building.

Engineers Week is designed to introduce young people to the exciting possibilities within science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers. It helps them understand how the subjects they study at school directly apply to solving real-world problems. John Jordan, Chair of Engineers Ireland Northern Region, highlighted the impact: "Engineers Week is about opening young people’s eyes to the incredible range of opportunities available within engineering. When pupils visit real sites, meet engineers and see the technology and infrastructure that keeps our society running, it makes the subject come alive." He also extended thanks to all the schools, industry partners, and volunteers who made the week possible, stating their support is key to inspiring the next generation.

Emma Morris from SONI added, "It was a pleasure to welcome pupils to SONI’s control centre and show them how the electricity grid is managed in real time. Engineering plays a critical role in powering homes, businesses and communities across Northern Ireland, and it’s important that young people can see the exciting careers that exist within the sector. Initiatives like Engineers Week help spark that curiosity and encourage the next generation to consider engineering as a future path." Edel Mullan from Ramboll and an EINR committee member echoed this sentiment, saying: "Engineers Week is a fantastic opportunity to show young people how engineering shapes the world around them. By connecting pupils with real projects, real engineers and real challenges, we can help inspire them to see the impact they could make in the future." Engineers Ireland Northern Region extended their gratitude to all supporting organisations, including SONI, Thales, Tetra Tech, Ulster University, Amey Roads NI, Environmental Techniques, Ramboll, Dawson Wam, and many more, for their invaluable contributions to the week’s success.