Pupils learn where engineering careers can STEM from
The world of science and engineering came alive in robotic form for a class of Mid Argyll pupils recently when they took part in an inspirational learning event.
Lochgilphead High School students attended the Mid Argyll and Kintyre STEM Fest on Wednesday February 26 where they were introduced to the exciting aspects of careers in the energy sector.
Celebrating science, technology, engineering and maths, the event at the MACC business park near Campbeltown included hands-on activities at the cutting edge of technology.
The pupils from Lochgilphead’s learning centre and the S2 cohort met the event’s star attraction, Spot the robotic dog, and were tasked with controlling it and navigating it through an obstacle course.
Spot was brought to the STEM Fest by BAM Siemens Energy, the principal contractors of the SSEN Transmission’s Crossaig 275kV substation project which was sponsoring the event.
The robot demonstrated how remotely-operated survey technology is being used in the delivery of major infrastructure projects.
Normally Spot uses state-of-the-art sensors to survey land and maintain project records for BAM and Siemens Energy, but it was the Lochgilphead pupils and their counterparts from Campbeltown Grammar who took the controls at the event, showing off the robot’s agility and their finely-tuned gaming skills as they navigated him through the obstacle course.
“The pupils took part in a range of workshops that involved everything from building bridges to controlling a robot dog, learning about pond-skaters to programming Lego cars,” Lochgilphead’s principal teacher of science and business Tom Carbro told the Advertiser.
“They also had access to a careers market place where they got a chance to discuss careers in STEM with people working in that field, a surprising number of whom were former pupils (all taught by Mr Lemmon).
“It was a great opportunity for the pupils to find out the huge extent of STEM career opportunities in this area - whether it’s in salmon, renewable energy, whisky, engineering and many more. The pupils were enthusiastic and engaged – it was a great day.”
The pupils’ enthusiasm for everything they experienced at the event was remarked on by the organisers.
“I was pleased to see how engaged the pupils were in the many activities and workshops that took place throughout the day, especially those involving Spot who proved to be a big hit,” Ula McNeill Project Manager for the Crossaig 275kV substation project said.
“I’d like to thank the pupils for their curiosity and interest which resulted in an enjoyable and inspiring day for everyone.”
Sign up to our daily Newsletter
Permission Statement
Yes! I would like to be sent emails from West Coast Today
I understand that my personal information will not be shared with any third parties, and will only be used to provide me with useful targeted articles as indicated.
I'm also aware that I can un-subscribe at any point either from each email notification or on My Account screen.
You may also like
No photos on the pier!
Raise a glass at Oban sake tasting
Oban Gaelic Choir takes talent overseas
Sign up to our daily Newsletters
Permission Statement
Yes! I would like to be sent emails from West Coast Today
I understand that my personal information will not be shared with any third parties, and will only be used to provide me with useful targeted articles as indicated.
I'm also aware that I can un-subscribe at any point either from each email notification or on My Account screen.
© 2025 Wyvex Media Limited.