Using a computer game to explain infrastructure
It's surprising how little school children know about civil engineering. So it's great to have the opportunity as an ICE Ambassador to change the misconceptions they have of our industry, one pupil at a time.
I explain the impact of a bridge on the economy and living environment of an area. This also shows the collaborative side of being a civil engineer.
I've also developed an activity using the Minecraft computer game to inspire young children to learn about civil engineering in the same way that LEGO did a generation ago. We launched it at the West Midlands Big Bang Fair 2016 where it attracted a lot of attention.
Minecraft demonstrates how the building and creation of different structures in the games world has a parallel with infrastructure provision. Minecraft is perfect for developing civil engineering scenarios because it can be played in creative mode where the player can build anything they want. Minecraft allows you to place textured blocks to create structures, or you can break them up.
Lots of young people have played the game but when they play with a civil engineer helping they get a much better understanding of the technical and social issues civil engineers have to overcome.
The best age range for this activity is 7-14-year-olds and I give them about 20 minutes to build a structure. You need at least a laptop but I usually run it with a projector and a big screen and use Xbox 360 controllers to make it more fun.
I really enjoy volunteering as a STEM ambassador and if I can get just one young person into a career in civil engineering it's worth it.
To find out more about the Minecraft activity email careers@ice.org.uk.