UK RAS STEPS was proud to support a campus visit that helped inspire the next generation of engineers, as a group of Brownies earned their Inventors badge through hands-on engagement with robotics, manufacturing and creative engineering.

Eighteen Brownies aged seven to ten visited the University of Leeds to explore the manufacturing, robotics and 3D printing laboratories within the School of Mechanical Engineering. The visit gave the group an early opportunity to experience engineering environments, technologies and role models that they might not otherwise encounter at a young age.

The session was led by Professor of Applied Creativity Briony Thomas, supported by three Research Technical Professionals, who showcased engineering “in action”. The Brownies met a robot dog, saw laser cutters at work, and explored striking carnival costumes created by engineers for the Light Night celebrations in Leeds. These examples demonstrated how robotics, design and creativity intersect across research and technical practice.

As a community-driven research and technology platform, UK RAS STEPS aims to support Research Technical Professionals working in robotics and autonomous systems across the UK. This project aligned closely with that mission by enabling technical staff to share their expertise in an inclusive, community-facing environment and by opening up engineering labs to young people in an engaging and supportive way.

The visit was coordinated by Postdoctoral Research Fellow Sophie Hutchinson, who also leads a Brownie unit in Far Headingley. By connecting her professional research role in spinal biomechanics with her community leadership, Sophie helped bridge the gap between academic engineering and real-world role models for the girls.

During the visit, the Brownies had the chance to try on carnival headgear, ask questions, and interact directly with researchers and technicians, reinforcing the message that engineering is creative, collaborative and people-focused.

Following the campus tour, the Brownies were challenged to build either a sustainable carnival costume or a robot that could help others. Drawing inspiration from the robotics labs, some chose imaginative projects such as a pizza vending machine and a robot designed to do homework. These creations formed the basis of their Inventors badge, recognising their curiosity, problem-solving and creativity.

Professor Briony Thomas, who works across mechanical engineering and design and is Deputy Director at the Leeds Institute for Societal Futures, highlighted the broader value of the collaboration:

“Sharing how engineering and creativity come together through our research was a joy. Projects like this show how universities, technicians and community groups can work together to spark curiosity and help young people see themselves as future innovators.”

UK RAS STEPS support helped make this collaboration possible by enabling technical expertise, facilities and staff time to be directed toward community engagement. Technicians James Watkins, Kacper Dobras and Hardy Whiteley‑Boocock played a vital role in delivering the visit and supporting hands-on learning.

By backing initiatives like this, UK RAS STEPS continues to champion the critical role of Research Technical Professionals in robotics and autonomous systems – supporting not only cutting-edge research, but also inclusive outreach that inspires future generations and strengthens connections between universities and their communities.