Budding Moray engineers land new equipment from rocket launch neighbours

Students studying in Moray are set to train with equipment that was previously used to make space rocket components thanks to their space scientist neighbours.

Orbex, the Forres-based spaceflight company, has donated a manual milling machine to the University of the Highlands and Islands' (UHI) Moray campus to support the next generation of mechanical engineers.

The machine, which is used for shaping solid materials such as metal and wood, was used by the spaceflight company to modify metallic fittings and create bespoke components. It will now help to train up young people in mechanical engineering skills.

"This is a fantastic addition to our facilities and it’ll no doubt inspire students to know that the equipment has played a role in developing rockets locally.

The machine will support the studies of both our engineering students and our modern apprentices - many of whom are employed by local firms and complete their first year of training with us. It’s a great example of education and industry working together to develop future engineering talent in the Highlands."

Samantha Bright, Head of Curriculum (STEM) at UHI Moray

The milling machine will be used across UHI’s Engineering Practice course at SCQF Level 5, as well as in its HNC Engineering Systems programme for mechanical projects.

"You don’t often find the kind of components we need for our rockets at the local hardware store - so machines like this one are essential for customising and refining parts in-house.

We hope students at UHI will enjoy the same freedom in their design work, gaining hands-on experience with the tools that bring engineering concepts to life. And, who knows, maybe we’ll see some of them join the Orbex team in the future!"

Phil Chambers, CEO of Orbex

Thank you to Orbex for their generous donation which will support many of our students in their current and future studies.