Amphenol Ltd will sponsor Canterbury Christ Church University’s Formula Student society, which is currently working on an ambitious project to design and manufacture a formula-style electric car. The sponsorship brings in funding, including the provision of electrical equipment and raw materials. Amphenol Ltd will also extend engineering design guidance, as well as access to their test house and tool room facilities, enriching the practical learning experience for Canterbury Christ Church engineering students.

The Whitstable business is a global leader in the provision of high-technology connectors and interconnect solutions, particularly for the aerospace and defence industries. On a recent visit to the University’s Canterbury campus Amphenol Ltd’s UK senior management team, including General Manager Ross Young, Technical Director John Prentice, Sales Director Tom Hammerton, and Head of Product Strategy Mihol Sebbage, discussed potential future collaborations with the University’s School of Engineering, Technology and Design, supporting both parties' dedication to nurturing future engineers and innovators.

Dr Salman Saeidlou, Senior Lecturer in the School of Engineering, Technology, and Design expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. He said: “This is a fantastic opportunity, not only for securing sponsorship for the Formula Student project but also for fostering collaborative research and funding activities. It opens doors for undergraduate and graduate placements, summer internships, and the integration of the CDIO (Conceive, Design, Implement, Operate) project into the University’s engineering curriculum.

“This collaboration between Amphenol Ltd and Canterbury Christ Church symbolises a leap forward in bridging the gap between academia and industry. It promises to enhance the educational landscape for our students, providing them with unparalleled exposure to real-world engineering challenges and the opportunity to work alongside industry leaders. It shows our dedication to providing our students with a cutting-edge, practical learning environment that prepares them for the challenges of tomorrow, as well as demonstrating Amphenol Ltd’s commitment to fostering new talent in the engineering sector.”