On April 5, at the Warsaw University of Technology, the Next Engineers: Engineering Academy project officially launched—a unique educational initiative that will support the development of 30 young, talented individuals interested in engineering careers over the next two years.
An Inspiring Inauguration
This event was the first in a series of meetings that will provide participants—second-year high school students and third-year technical school students from the Warsaw Functional Area—with comprehensive preparation for engineering careers.
The opening ceremony brought together representatives from all partner organizations, including leadership from The Perspektywy Educational Foundation and GE Aerospace Poland employees volunteering in the project. Dr. Kamil Futyma, Vice-Dean for Student Affairs at the Faculty of Power and Aeronautical Engineering at Warsaw University of Technology, also attended.
First Impressions from Participants
The enthusiasm of participants was evident from the very beginning of the program. Gabi, one of the participants, emphasizes the social aspect of the initiative: "Great people, I love the collaboration through which we can learn more." This element of cooperation and networking with experts constitutes one of the program's core values.
For Natalia, another Academy participant, the program proved to be transformative in terms of career path selection: "Even though I wasn't entirely sure if this is what I wanted to do, the classes showed me that this is my path. The mix of theoretical and practical knowledge is very encouraging."
Szymon summarizes his participation briefly but meaningfully: "For me, it's awesome!" His words effectively capture the positive impressions he took away from participating in the program and the atmosphere that accompanied the entire event.
Volunteer Perspective
The Engineering Academy program would not be possible without the involvement of experts from GE Aerospace who, as volunteers, share their knowledge and experience with young engineering enthusiasts.
Agata, a Design Engineer at GE Aerospace, shares her experience: "The Next Engineers program brings two groups together: engineers from GE Aerospace and youth curious about the world. At first, it may seem like they come from different worlds, but they have much in common: eagerness to expand knowledge and passion, and enthusiasm for looking to the future. What sets them apart is age and professional experience. For both groups, this is a wonderful opportunity where each can learn from and inspire the other. As a volunteer, I'm happy to share my engineering experience and, at the same time, see firsthand what it's like to work with the new generation and understand their way of perceiving the world."
Marcin Wasilewski, GE Aerospace Poland Site Leader, expresses similar enthusiasm: "I had the privilege of meeting an exceptional group of young people who have just started the Engineering Academy. For the next two years, they will discover how engineers think and work. After meeting them this past weekend, I am convinced that we will learn as much from them as they will learn from us. I can't wait to see how far they will go!"
The Future Begins Now
The inauguration of Engineering Academy is just the beginning of a fascinating journey for the 30 participants in the program. Over the next two years, they will uncover the intricacies of an engineer's work, develop their skills, and build foundations for their future professional careers. As the organizers emphasize—the future of engineering begins right now! And thanks to initiatives like Engineering Academy, this future looks incredibly promising.
