Schoolchildren in Morpeth have tackled ‘zombies’ in a ‘post-apocalyptic world’ as part of a fun-filled workshop in the run-up to International Women in Engineering Day (June 23).
The Institution of Civil Engineers collaborated with MWH Global, Procter & Gamble and IHC for an event at Newminster Middle School, which saw pupils complete a number of disaster relief exercises after a fictitious waterborne virus outbreak brought about ‘flesh eating’ zombies.
The student ‘survivors’ were briefed about the scenario and tasked to make the best use of the resources available, which included building bridges and creating a water filtration system to filter out the ‘contaminated’ water supply, with assistance from volunteers from Teesside University and Nissan.
International Women in Engineering Day celebrates and promotes careers in engineering and technical roles for women, as well as celebrating the achievements of past and present female engineers.
Penny Marshall, ICE Regional Director for the North East, said: “It is important to recognise the achievements of women in industry, and the event at Newminster Middle School was a timely occasion to get youngsters involved in engineering activities. International Women in Engineering Day is a great initiative that we are proud to support by engaging with companies and volunteers to offer these kinds of workshops in the build-up to and on celebratory days.
“We are always looking at ways to engage with the community to inform people about the great work that civil engineers do to transform lives, and to highlight the wide range of opportunities the engineering industry can offer.The zombie-themed activities are good fun, and a great way to promote teamwork and problem solving to young people.”