During the programme, students explored science, technology, engineering and maths through talks, activities and site tours. A key highlight was an interactive sustainability workshop, where participants explored some of the world's most pressing sustainability challenges and worked in teams to develop innovative ideas and practical solutions. Their proposals were then compared with the sustainability initiatives already being implemented across Leonardo’s Helicopter business, helping the students understand how similar challenges are being addressed in a real industrial environment and demonstrating how innovation can contribute to a more sustainable future.
Throughout their day at the UK’s only end-to-end helicopter facility, the young people also visited Leonardo’s Wind Tunnel and Training Academy, seeing first-hand where Leonardo designs, tests and develops its aircraft, as well as the environments where employees and customers receive world-class training. They also heard from many of the site’s world-leading experts, who shared their experiences on the skills, behaviours and curiosity needed for future careers in engineering, aviation and sustainable innovation. Experiencing these areas up close brought engineering and innovation to life, while providing valuable insight into the people, technologies and expertise behind Leonardo's global helicopter programmes.
The event was a key example of Leonardo’s Social Value commitments, with the company focused on widening access to opportunity, tackling skills gaps, building the UK’s future STEM talent pipeline, and creating employment and training pathways for people and communities who may face barriers to entry.
By connecting STEM outreach with sustainability learning, Ad Astra supports the skills that will be essential for the future of the aerospace, defence and security sector: technical confidence, environmental awareness, collaboration and problem-solving. It also reinforces the importance of delivering benefits beyond business as usual, creating lasting value for young people, schools, families and the communities where Leonardo operates.
Clive Higgins, Chair & CEO, Leonardo UK Ltd, said: “It was a privilege to welcome children from our colleague community and the local area to Yeovil, the Home of British Helicopters. Ad Astra is an opportunity to promote science, sustainability and collaboration, and to encourage young people to develop a lasting interest in STEM subjects and the skills that will shape our future.”
Leonardo plans to run a future Ad Astra event at its Basildon location later this year.
