One of the standout projects discussed during the event was the EDGE Toolkit<\/strong>. Originally developed to support underrepresented students, especially those from minority backgrounds in engineering, technology, and design, the EDGE Toolkit aims to improve employment outcomes by focusing on key areas such as digital recruitment profiles and social capital. This has been a collaborative project with EqualEngineers and funded by the Royal Academy of Engineering. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Key Achievements and Impact:<\/em><\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n Although some evaluation activities are scheduled for the 2024\/25 academic year, the EDGE Toolkit is already poised to improve the employability of engineering students. By supporting the development of LinkedIn-style profiles and fostering greater social capital, this tool will help students transition smoothly into the job market, boosting their career prospects. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The Immersive Centre: Expanding XR and Immersive Technology at CCCU<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n Another highlight of the event was the introduction of CCCU’s Immersive Centr<\/strong>e, which is part of the university\u2019s Vision 2030 strategic framework. The Immersive Centre focuses on expanding the use of XR (extended reality) and immersive technologies across the university, benefiting teaching, research, and knowledge exchange.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n “The Innovation Showcase event at the Kent Science Park was a fantastic opportunity to share with our external stakeholders the progressive use of immersive technologies within the university, and how this could have a positive impact on training and use of these same technologies within their own organisations. There were many positive discussions on the day as part of the Virtual Reality (VR) Workshop facilitated by Gareth Ward and Tim Jackson on behalf of the university.”<\/em> <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Key Goals of the Immersive Centre:<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n This initiative builds upon a significant \u00a3300,000 investment from SELEP, which resulted in the creation of two VR labs on the CCCU campus. The Immersive Centre will coordinate and expand on these efforts, ensuring that immersive technology benefits students, researchers, and industry partners alike.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n Exhibition Stands and Interactive Workshops<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n The event featured a variety of exhibition stands held by KSP tenants, suppliers, local authorities, the university, and a charity. These stands provided valuable insight into industry innovations and collaborative opportunities. Attendees had the chance to dive into interactive workshops and talks<\/strong> held by university academics, covering exciting topics such as: <\/p>\n\n\n\n Collaborations Sparked<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n Throughout the day, connections were made, contacts exchanged<\/strong>, and collaborations<\/strong> began forming. Some of the notable exhibitors who attended the event included: <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
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