Somerset has been chosen as the UK launchpad for a pioneering international programme designed to inspire the next generation of engineers, innovators and problem-solvers.
More than 80 young people aged 13 to 16, including pupils from local schools and the children of Leonardo employees, recently took part in Ad Astra: Find Your Spark, a new initiative helping young people explore engineering, technology and sustainability through hands-on experiences at Leonardo’s Yeovil helicopter site and the nearby iAero innovation centre. 
Originally developed in Italy, Ad Astra has already reached over 800 young people and is now being expanded internationally for the first time. Leonardo selected Yeovil as the programme’s first UK location, placing Somerset at the centre of a growing initiative designed to connect young people with future opportunities in engineering, science and technology.
Over two days, participants toured areas of the site rarely seen by the public, including Leonardo’s Wind Tunnel and Training Academy, took part in engineering challenges and met the people behind some of the UK’s most advanced helicopter programmes.
Working alongside Leonardo, Yeovil College helped design and deliver practical activities that encouraged teamwork, creativity and problem-solving, including helicopter design, sustainability and a NASA-inspired mission exercise.
Clive Higgins, Chair & CEO, Leonardo UK Ltd, said: “Ad Astra gives young people opportunities and experiences they might not otherwise have, helping them see how engineering, technology and sustainability shape the world around them. If it inspires even a few to explore a future in engineering, it has achieved something truly valuable.” 
George Round, Head of Faculty for Engineering Industries, Yeovil College, said: “It has been fantastic to work alongside Leonardo to bring Ad Astra to Somerset and help create such an inspiring experience for young people.
“The Yeovil College team played a key role in designing hands-on activities that encouraged creativity, teamwork and problem-solving, and it was incredible to see participants embrace every challenge.
“Opportunities like this can spark ambition and open young people’s eyes to the vast array of exciting careers available in engineering and technology.”
The programme forms part of Leonardo’s wider work to strengthen links with local communities and encourage more young people to consider future careers in high-growth industries.
Following its successful UK debut in Somerset, Ad Astra is expected to form part of a wider international programme connecting young people with opportunities across other Leonardo locations in the UK.
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