Scottish STEM charity, TechFest, has challenged S6 students to improve the North Sea landscape with a three-month innovative project.
The initiative saw S6 pupils from across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire spend three months designing a full North Sea field development plan, tackling real industry challenges using real data.
The project launched with an in-person introduction day, followed by independent teamwork, a formal report submission, and finally the Presentation Day at bp’s Dyce site, where teams pitched their proposals to a panel of industry assessors.
Over the course of the project, students analysed seismic and core log gamma data, estimated oil and gas reserves, designed extraction strategies, and ran cost analyses to ensure technical, financial, and environmental viability.
Dr Martha Gavan, Managing Director at TechFest, said: “It’s always incredible to see how quickly students grow during this project, from their first look at seismic data to confidently presenting a full development plan. You can feel their excitement when they realise, they’re working with the same kind of data and challenges faced by real engineers.
“STEM in the Pipeline gives them a chance to test themselves in a real-world context, and every year, their creativity, teamwork and determination leave a lasting impression.”
The project wrapped up at bp’s Dyce office, where 16 teams from 12 Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire schools came together for the final showcase. Robert Gordon’s College Team 1 (RGC ScotCo) took the top spot, followed by St Margarets School for Girls (ARKAI Solutions), and Lochside Academy (BOWRING Energy).
STEM in the Pipeline is delivered in collaboration with leading energy partners, including Apache, bp, CNOOC International, Harbour Energy, the North Sea Transition Authority, and SPE Aberdeen, who sponsor this programme and provide mentorship, and access to real-world expertise to support TechFest’s educational mission.
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Students were also supported by experts from the University of Aberdeen, Equinor and Ithaca Energy, gaining valuable insights into STEM careers while strengthening their teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills.
TechFest is a Scottish charity focused on transforming STEM education and inspiring future talent. Through hands-on national programmes and industry collaboration, it highlights the real-world opportunities a STEM career can offer.
With the energy sector and wider industry facing major skills shortages over the next decade, initiatives like STEM in the Pipeline are crucial in helping young people explore and pursue STEM pathways. The programme continues to be a standout example of education and industry working together to engage the next generations of scientists and engineers.
