Inspiring Future Engineers

Inspiring Future Engineers Through Work Experience at Morlais

Morlais was delighted to welcome two aspiring engineers for work experience, providing them with an opportunity to explore the exciting world of tidal energy and gain valuable insight into careers within the renewable energy sector.

Llyr Elwyn, a student from Ysgol Brynrefail, joined the team to learn more about engineering and the opportunities available within renewable energy. Ishbel Holt, a Mechanical Engineering student at the University of Sheffield, also spent a week with Morlais. Originally from Bangor and keen to return to the area after completing her studies, Ishbel was interested in discovering the career opportunities that North Wales and the Morlais project can offer.

During their placements, Llyr and Ishbel met with Morlais developers HydroWing and Tidal Technologies to learn more about their innovative tidal energy devices. They also toured the Morlais substation and visited Mona Lifting, gaining first-hand experience of the engineering, infrastructure and collaboration that underpin the Morlais project.

Reflecting on his experience, Llyr said: "I really enjoyed my time with Morlais, learning about the exciting potential of tidal energy and how innovative projects can support a more sustainable future. The experience gave me valuable insight into the renewable energy sector and has increased my interest in pursuing a career in engineering."

Ishbel also found the placement invaluable, particularly the opportunity to meet a wide range of organisations involved in the project.

"Morlais has provided me with a really valuable week, linking me with many companies that I am interested in, and going above and beyond to arrange meetings and visits. I am leaving with the ability to get in touch with many more companies than I would have found on my own, which means I can more confidently start to build my career in engineering.

"I have learnt this week that the roles within smaller companies can be so interesting, as some cover many areas compared to the often more specialised roles within larger businesses. It has been a pleasure to gain an insight into these roles and find out more about Morlais, the developers involved in the project and all the partner companies that have helped make it possible.

"I especially enjoyed talking with HydroWing, as they were so informative, showing us different models and design iterations while explaining the engineering behind their technology.

"I am very grateful for the opportunity Menter Môn and Morlais have given me, and I will definitely be in touch in the future. A special shout out to Erin and Jack for being so welcoming throughout the week, organising everything and showing us around the substation – it was very cool!"

Supporting work experience placements is an important part of Morlais' commitment to inspiring the next generation of engineers and helping young people discover the wide range of career opportunities within the renewable energy sector. By connecting students with innovative developers and local supply chain companies, Morlais is helping to build the skills and talent needed to support the future of clean energy in North Wales.