ACP Roadshow Inspires Young Minds at Westcliff High School for Boys

On 5 March the ACP Roadshow Team of Chris Marshall, Mike Stokes and Lee Mason were hosted by Westcliff High School for Boys in Southend-on-Sea, where they presented to an audience of 115 students.

During the morning, Chris Marshall introduced pioneering technologies linked to the Fourth Industrial Revolution—including Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things, Robotics, and Drones—and explained how these evolving fields will shape future careers in aerospace, space, and beyond.

Lee Mason followed by discussing the ways in which AI and Blockchain continue to open up new pathways for engineers, designers, and entrepreneurs.

Mike Stokes then guided students through potential aviation opportunities, outlining how driven young people can earn a pilot’s licence and the various types of flying they might experience.

In a lively Q&A session, students were encouraged to envision the range of career paths that emerging technologies might create in the years ahead. By discussing roles yet to be defined—spanning everything from Space Traffic Management Specialists to Orbital Robotics Engineer—participants gained a broader perspective on how rapidly evolving fields could shape their future career journeys.

During the final part of the presentation, students met Spot, the quadruped robot created by Boston Dynamics. This interactive demonstration showcased advanced robotics in action and highlighted Spot’s potential, offering a tangible glimpse into the future of automated technology.

After lunch, the students explored drone-flight simulators, tested VR flight experiences, and delved into VR design—each activity offering a glimpse of how modern hardware and software intersect to advance aerospace and aviation. No external companies joined us on this occasion; instead, the ACP Team delivered every segment of the presentation and breakout sessions.

On behalf of the ACP Trustees, we extend our warmest thanks to Michael Skelly, Headteacher at Westcliff High School for Boys and importantly Martin Atkinson – Careers Lead, for the excellent organisation and hosting. To the staff and all 115 students, we say a sincere “thank you” for your enthusiasm, and we wish them every success in their future education and careers.

We look forward to bringing the ACP Roadshow to more schools across the country as we continue our mission to inspire the next generation of aerospace and aviation professionals.