Young people across Ayrshire are being encouraged to think about a career in the space sector — with a new campaign that’s out of this world.
‘A New Hope’ is being launched by Prestwick Spaceport and affiliated aerospace businesses.
The campaign is linked to South Ayrshire Council’s ‘Skypath’ initiative and includes an educational outreach video for students and teachers featuring local heroes from Ayrshire and across Scotland.
The aim is to target high school children initially, while a competition to design a ‘Mission Patch,’ to mark the inaugural launch of small satellites from Prestwick, will focus on primary schools.
It’s hoped the programme breaks down perceived barriers to accessing space careers and inspires young people.
‘A New Hope’ will highlight the need for future generations to consider a career in space to reduce a skills gaps.
The campaign will also showcase advice from well-known Scots who have aimed high and succeeded in various career paths.
Mick O’Connor, programme director of Prestwick Spaceport, said: “We want to inspire young people to follow their dreams.
“We have asked local heroes who have achieved success in different fields to help us by telling their own story, explaining how they achieved their goals to help young people realise that with the right desire, belief and commitment they can achieve their own dreams.
“We are passionate about making the youth of Ayrshire aware of the possibilities.”
Matt Archer, director of commercial spaceflight at the UK Space Agency, said: “Scotland is home to around one fifth of all space jobs in the UK, and this campaign from Prestwick Spaceport is a great example of the types of initiatives we need to help inspire the next generation to reach for the stars and consider careers in the UK’s thriving space sector.”
‘A New Hope’ campaign is supported by the £251.5m Ayrshire Growth Deal investment, a partnership between North, East and South Ayrshire Councils, together with Scottish and UK Governments. A portion of that funding is allocated to aerospace development within the region.
Dr. Philippa Whitford, MP for Central Ayrshire and member of the UK Parliamentary Space Committee, wants to see more girls in the sector.
She added: “The Scottish Aero-Space sector needs to attract the brightest and best, so it is vital we are not ignoring the talents of half of our young people.”
Prestwick is already home to major aerospace companies like BAE Systems, GE Caledonian, Spirit AeroSystems, Woodward and Collins Aerospace.
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