Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) has thrown open its doors to the next generation of maritime talent, hosting over 50 cadets and adult volunteers for a day of hands-on STEM activities. The event, a collaboration between LJMU, the Reserve Forces’ & Cadets’ Association for the North West of England & the Isle of Man, and the Royal Navy Engagement Team, aimed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world career opportunities in maritime and engineering.
Cadets from units across the North West, including Birkenhead, Burnley, and Liverpool, got up close with cutting-edge tech in LJMU’s maritime simulation suites, engineering workshops, and robotics labs. Commander Laura Wellington, Sea Cadet Corps North West Area Officer, highlighted the importance of these experiences: “We’re really interested in ensuring that young people experience things they maybe wouldn’t ordinarily get to experience in their everyday lives. This experience at LJMU bridges the gap between a science lesson at school, which our young cadets might deem as boring or irrelevant to them right now, to the opportunities that can be unlocked for their futures if they engage in these important STEM skills.”
The cadets didn’t just sit in lectures—they got their hands dirty. They steered virtual ships in the university’s ship simulators, watched 3D printers craft components, and even interacted with an AI-powered robot head. But perhaps the most thrilling moment was seeing a robot dog perform tricks. These aren’t just gimmicks; they’re tools that could shape the future of maritime and engineering. “It’s given them experience of that relevance to our lives, showing them that when they finish school they could go to university, and when they finish university, they can get a job and do incredible things,” Commander Wellington added.
This isn’t just about inspiring the next generation—it’s about equipping them with the skills to thrive in an industry that’s rapidly evolving. The maritime sector is crying out for talent, and initiatives like this could be the spark that lights the way for young people to see themselves in these roles. The cadets also spoke with current students who are building and racing their own cars, proving that university isn’t just about theory—it’s about rolling up your sleeves and getting stuck in.
LJMU’s commitment to widening access to higher education is clear. By partnering with cadet groups, the university is breaking down barriers and showing young people that their future could be in STEM. The event wasn’t just a one-off; it’s part of LJMU’s ongoing pledge to support the Armed Forces community under the Armed Forces Covenant. The university has even been awarded gold status under the Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, recognising its efforts to support service personnel, veterans, and their families.
This isn’t just about filling university places—it’s about filling the skills gap in maritime and engineering. By giving cadets a taste of what’s possible, LJMU is planting the seeds for a future workforce that’s ready to tackle the challenges ahead. The cadets left with more than just memories—they left with a vision of what their future could hold. And that’s something that could change the course of their lives, and the industry, for the better.