Local schools' youngsters see inside Mazak's factory and undertake Mazak Enterprise Challenge

The full day event, which was attended by 98 students from across the West Midlands, was organised by The Reward Factory, a work-related programme provider for schools across the UK. The Mazak Enterprise Challenge was designed to help students develop an insight into the world of work and business, while developing the sort of skills that employers look for when recruiting. The day's activities included an introduction to Mazak and a tour of the company's European Technology Centre, which houses a wide selection of the current machine tool range, including the Quick Turn Smart series of lathes and turning centres, which are manufactured in Worcester, and a factory tour. In the afternoon, students were asked to undertake the Mazak Enterprise Challenge, which involved the development of a comprehensive marketing plan to promote Mazak's products and services, with students taking on the role of the Mazak sales and marketing team. "We regularly throw open our doors for customers to view our facilities at Open House events, but this is the first time we have invited local schools," Dr Damien Cleugh, European marketing manager for Yamazaki Mazak, said. "It is vitally important that we inspire and encourage young people to go into engineering and manufacturing, which can be a highly rewarding career choice. "The Mazak Enterprise Challenge was an opportunity for young people to learn more about industry and the world of work and we were very impressed by the enthusiasm shown and the quality of the work." Jon Sanger, Herefordshire and Worcestershire ELP coordinator, commented: "Activities like the Mazak Enterprise Challenge can help students to bridge the gap between academic work and full-time employment by giving them insight into work and the needs of employers. We are very grateful to Yamazaki Mazak for hosting the day."