Students at UTC Heathrow were immersed in an exciting and educational day of challenges focused on sustainability in data centres, hosted by KAO Data and supported by VIRTUS, Vertiv, JLL, Cyrus One, LMG, AWS, ARK, and others. The Digital Futures Programme event offered a hands-on, creative exploration of renewable energy, engineering principles, and the importance of sustainability in today’s digital world.

Inspiring the next generation of innovators

Led by KAO Data’s team, including Mike Tamblingson, Chris Small, Lizzy McDowell, and Faisal Akram, the day aimed to educate students about data centres—vital hubs for powering the digital age—and their role in the journey towards a sustainable future. KAO Data, a leader in green energy solutions, operates their centres using 100% renewable energy, making them the perfect hosts for this inspiring event. 

Mike Tamblingson, Operations Director at KAO Data, spoke passionately about the company’s commitment to fostering the next generation of STEM professionals: 

“I am personally very passionate about the next generation. I love working in data centres and wanted to give something back. I’m keen to drive initiatives like this at KAO Data and feel privileged to be part of days like today.” 

A day of engaging challenges

The day began with an introduction to data centres, explaining their crucial role in students’ daily lives and emphasising the need for sustainable solutions. Students then embarked on a series of hands-on activities: 

1. Designing a data centre model

Working in teams, students cut and constructed their own data centre models, carefully considering critical features like security, backup generators, and location. The activity encouraged creative thinking and a deeper understanding of data centre design and functionality. 

2. Building a windmill 

Next, students designed and built windmills in a competitive challenge to generate the highest DC voltage. Using a digital multimeter with a “Peak Hold” feature, teams tested their windmills’ performance. Designs varied widely, showcasing students’ ingenuity and engineering skills. 

3. Constructing a wind-powered car

The final challenge saw students build wind-powered cars, focusing on friction, aerodynamics, and surface area. Cars were tested in front of a fan, with winners judged on distance covered and design innovation. One team’s clever use of a brown paper bag to capture maximum wind earned them the top prize. 

Inspiring conversations and future aspirations 

Throughout the day, students shared their aspirations, with some expressing newfound excitement about data centre careers. One student, already set on becoming a civil engineer, explained how events like this reinforced her decision to leave her mainstream school and join the UTC to complete her GCSEs in more relevant subjects. Others, still exploring their options we inspired by the innovative possibilities in STEM fields. 

Celebrating success

Winners of each activity were rewarded with Amazon vouchers, and all students left with a deeper appreciation for sustainability, technology and a potential career in data centres. Reflecting on the event, KAO Data’s team and supporting partners were thrilled with the enthusiasm and creativity on display. 

A bright future

Events like this exemplify the power of collaboration between industry leaders and education to inspire the next generation of innovators. UTC Heathrow and KAO Data’s partnership has not only highlighted the importance of sustainability in data centres but also ignited a passion for STEM careers among students. 

UTC Heathrow, with its forward-thinking approach to education, continues to be a hub for preparing young minds for the challenges and opportunities of the future. 

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