Teens get to grips with robots

Seven young people between 14-16 spent a week with automation experts at the Coventry, UK, site for FANUC UK - producers of CNC control systems, robots and production machinery.

From nearby schools and colleges the teenagers were given practical insights into automation at the FANUC Academy.

Hands-on robot programming training was combined with an introduction to project mangement. They also were given access to the industrial robotic and automation solutions, and learnt about the varied sectors and applications.

For the majority, this was their first experience using a robot.

'It’s been a really exciting experience and I’ve enjoyed it so much,' says Nathaniel Sharpe, 16. 'This was my first time using a robot and I thought it would be a lot harder than it actually was – programming it was surprisingly straightforward!'

After a successful first ever Work Experience Week the company is considering running similar events in the future.