Spelbrekers IRL lets young people experience technology first-hand
During the Onderwijsbeurs Zuid on Friday 25 and Saturday 26 September, young people were introduced to engineering and technology in an interactive way at Spelbrekers IRL. The former Techniekplein was given a new lease of life this year, entirely in keeping with the Spelbrekers theme. Visitors were able to explore, build, play games and experience just how versatile engineering and ICT are.
Spelbrekers IRL is a joint initiative of the Beethoven partners Brainport Development, TU/e, Fontys University of Applied Sciences, Summa and Ter AA, in collaboration with Brainport Industries College. The concept builds on Spelbrekers and connects with young people’s experiences by using gaming as a gateway to technology and ICT. With Spelbrekers IRL, the partners brought these worlds together on the exhibition floor, allowing young people to discover for themselves the possibilities that tech has to offer.
From gaming to real-world technology
During Spelbrekers IRL, the world of gaming literally came to life. Young people were able to build their own drones, drive robots on a FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) competition pitch, pilot drones, play games, try their hand at machining and get creative with tech art. In the photo booth, visitors could have their picture taken in a customised gaming case. Meanwhile, young people and their parents discussed study programmes and opportunities within tech and ICT. Spelbrekers IRL highlighted just how versatile this field is and how you can become part of it yourself through education or a career. Whilst some visitors were already interested in technology, others discovered a side to it they hadn’t known before. “Oh, is this technology too?” was a comment heard regularly.
StreamwithLien and ‘tinkering scientist’ Rolf Hut
Online content also played a role during Spelbrekers IRL. StreamwithLien was on hand to livestream on Spelbrekers’ digital channels. To this end, she spoke with visitors, teachers and students about the fun and practical benefits of tech. This ensured that the in-person experience at the fair also received online attention.
In addition, Rolf Hut, better known as the ‘craft scientist’, gave a talk on both days of the fair. In his own accessible way, he demonstrated how science, technology, curiosity and hands-on creation are all interconnected.
Spelbrekers IRL to recruit talent for the semiconductor sector
Spelbrekers IRL is made possible in part by the National Microchip Talent Strengthening Plan. In the Brainport Eindhoven region, Brainport Development, TU/e, Fontys University of Applied Sciences, Summa and Ter AA are joining forces with the government and the business community under the banner ‘Talent for Semicon’. Together, we will train thousands of new people for the microchip industry up to and including 2030. In this way, we are strengthening the Netherlands’ international competitive position as a high-tech region.
Want to find out more about Spelbrekers? Visit echtespelbrekers.nl.