London Underground quieter than usual due to Coronavirus, 16th March 2020Credit: SWNSTHE leading British achievements in engineering and manufacturing encompass the London Underground, the Channel Tunnel, and the creation of the World Wide Web.
Researchers surveyed 2,000 adults about the nation's history of significant innovations, revealing that 94 percent take pride in the country's engineering legacy, with Concorde and the MRI scanner also making it into the top 10.
British manufacturing and engineering will continue to shape the futureCredit: SWNS
The third generation of the LEAF has started rolling off the production line this weekCredit: Unknown
London’s engineering, the Southampton-built Spitfire aircraft, and advancements in prosthetics and bionic limb engineering from UK universities also ranked highly.
Completing the top 10 were the National Grid, with 64 percent of respondents indicating they are more inclined to purchase items if they have origins in the UK.
OnePoll commissioned the research to honor its manufacturing and engineering heritage in Sunderland, where the third generation of the LEAF has begun production this week.
Lee Kennedy, 50, a facilities engineer with 33 years at the plant, now works alongside his daughter Eve, 20, who is an apprentice studying supply chain management.
Reflecting on three decades of innovation, Lee shared what makes their work exceptional.
He stated: “It’s the opportunity to collaborate with so many intelligent individuals over the years. I’ve witnessed countless brilliant young talents enter the business with fresh ideas and a strong desire to enhance processes.
“This is what makes British engineering so remarkable – there’s always new talent eager to innovate and advance.
“Experiencing that enthusiasm firsthand assures me that the future of British innovation is very promising.”
The study also indicated that 69 percent believe British manufacturing and engineering will continue to influence the future, while 93 percent think it is vital to the nation's identity.
More than half (53 percent) feel the sector is more innovative than ever, and 44 percent of parents would encourage their children to pursue engineering careers.
Of those, 51 percent believe the earning potential is substantial, and the same percentage noted that demand for engineering skills is high.
Additionally, 49 percent would prefer their children to pursue roles that allow for innovation and creativity.
Eve discussed the opportunities available for young people seeking alternative pathways into the industry, stating: “I regularly visit schools to promote apprenticeships to young people in the area, and it’s something I’m passionate about.
“Many students still perceive university as the only route to success, but it isn’t – you can build a rewarding career without attending university.
“Here in Sunderland and across the broader region, the plant offers real opportunities and a chance to learn while working.
“It opens doors for those seeking alternative pathways, and I’m thrilled to be able to demonstrate that.”
The OnePoll study found that half of Brits consider themselves knowledgeable about the nation's manufacturing and engineering history.
Moreover, 44 percent have recommended visiting an iconic site associated with British engineering.
Among the most visited landmarks are the London Underground, Tower Bridge, and the London Eye.
Others have marveled at Battersea Power Station and the Forth Bridge, located west of Edinburgh.
Lee from Nissan, who spoke ahead of the launch of the latest LEAF, which can travel up to 386 miles on a single charge and is eligible for the full £3,750 Electric Car Grant, added: “Engineering and manufacturing play a significant role in the local area.
“And it’s not just those directly employed by the plant – it also supports many businesses and suppliers throughout Sunderland.
“Reflecting on the LEAF being one of the first mass-produced electric cars fills me with immense pride – knowing we achieved this here in Sunderland and brought it to fruition.
“It’s remarkable how far it has advanced since those early days. The range and technology have evolved significantly, and knowing that so many locals contributed means a lot.”
Top 20 most impressive feats of British engineering and manufacturing
The London Underground
Channel Tunnel
The invention of the World Wide Web by Sir Tim Berners-Lee
Concorde
MRI scanner
Tower Bridge
Spitfire aircraft
Prosthetics and bionic limb engineering from UK universities
The National Grid
Clifton Suspension Bridge
Harrier Jump Jets
Forth Bridge
The London Eye
Thames Barrier
The Royal Albert Hall
Jodrell Bank radio telescope
Hydro-electric engineering in the Scottish Highlands
Severn Bridge
The Shard
Shropshire’s Iron Bridge
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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