Background

Established to address low awareness of engineering careers and ongoing skills shortages within the sector, the Foundation helps participants understand how classroom learning links to real-world careers and creates clearer pathways into education, training and employment.

Working with students aged 4-18, as well as adults not in education, employment or training (NEET), the Foundation delivers hands-on workshops, careers engagement activities and its flagship Big Bridge programme. Its approach focuses on making STEM careers visible, accessible and achievable for people from all backgrounds, particularly those who may not traditionally consider engineering as a career option. Since 2022, the Foundation has worked with schools, colleges, industry partners and community organisations to build confidence, develop transferable skills and inspire future career aspirations.

What Think Design Engineer Foundation did

The Foundation developed and delivered a structured programme of STEM engagement activities designed to inspire young people and those facing barriers to work, while building the skills and confidence needed for future employment. At the heart of this was The Big Bridge, a unique large-scale engineering experience where participants work together to construct and walk across a 13-metre cable-stayed bridge. Through this and a range of interactive workshops, participants gained hands-on experience of engineering, teamwork and problem-solving in a way that traditional classroom learning cannot provide.

Alongside the flagship programme, the Foundation delivered workshops focused on sustainability, infrastructure and real-world engineering challenges; school presentations linking curriculum subjects to career opportunities; targeted initiatives such as female-only engineering events, SEND workshops and Irish-medium sessions; and programmes supporting individuals who were not in education, employment or training. Activities were delivered directly within schools and communities, often providing transport support to remove barriers to participation and ensuring access for young people in rural and underserved areas.

The Foundation worked closely with schools, industry volunteers, professional bodies and local authorities to provide authentic industry insights and meaningful engagement with practicing engineers. Through pre- and post-programme evaluation, it measured changes in awareness, confidence and career aspirations, ensuring a clear focus on employability outcomes and long-term workforce development.

Key Impacts & Results

• Reached more than 7,000 students since 2022, increasing awareness of STEM careers and future employment opportunities.
• Engaged 3,083 students in 2025 alone across 20 events in five counties, working with 50 schools and organisations.
• 75% of participants reported they would now consider engineering as a career following Foundation activities.
• Supported participation for underrepresented groups through female-only sessions, SEND workshops, Irish-medium delivery and tailored programmes for mixed-ability learners and NEET participants.
• Mobilised 129 industry volunteers who contributed more than 500 hours of support in 2025, helping participants gain direct insight into careers and workplaces.
• Worked with 35+ organisations across industry, education and the public sector, strengthening connections between education and employment pathways.
• Achieved 100% positive feedback from schools and partners in 2025 and 2026, with teachers highlighting increased student confidence, engagement, teamwork and problem-solving skills

What the judge said:

“Think Design Engineer Foundation is a remarkable not-for-profit organisation, led by a single visionary woman who has transformed innovation into a sustainable business model for social impact. Through creativity, design thinking and commitment to education and skills make them a deserving winner and an inspiring example of innovation!”