‘With us, you can really experience technology’
If you’re currently at school, one thing is certain: you’re going to work in technology, or with technology. On 13 June, during the High Tech Discovery Route (HTOR), the Automotive Campus in Helmond will be the place where numerous companies demonstrate what that looks like. Great for young people (thanks to the hands-on activities) and for older people too (because who knew all this was happening in the Peel region)? Ryan van Aerle and Diane Kolkhuis Tanke from Hightech Helmond - de Peel have their say. ‘We sometimes get feedback that it was just like a day out at Efteling; we create an experience.’
This is the eleventh time that Hightech Helmond - de Peel has taken part in the HTOR. ‘We’ve held our event at various venues, such as at AAE last year,’ says Ryan. ‘So this time we’ve chosen the Automotive Campus, which is a familiar place for us and stands for development and innovation,’ says Diane.
Planting seeds
What is the aim of the collaborating companies and schools? ‘As well as offering visitors a fun day out, of course, we also want to plant a seed,’ explains Ryan. Diane adds: ‘There is still a high demand for technical staff, and it is only growing. Technology is interwoven with this region, even in sectors or professions where that might not seem to be the case, such as healthcare. It’s not a question of whether your job is related to technology, but how. We’re showing the possibilities.’
Visitors follow a route across the campus grounds, taking in a host of activities and companies. Children do this via a treasure hunt, an extra incentive to encourage them to visit all the stands. ‘What’s there to do? You name it!’ laughs Diane. ‘From building soapbox cars to controlling robots.’ Five buildings on the campus form the setting for the day. It is very much a day out for the whole family. ‘The programme is structured around the so-called seven worlds of technology, from People & Health to Hi-tech & Science, so that every visitor gains an insight into the diversity of technology.’
Engaging you even before you step inside
Incidentally, the day begins even before visitors step inside this venue, traditionally the largest on the High Tech Discovery Route. All primary schools in the region receive an educational programme in advance. Years 1 to 4 undertake a craft project, Years 5 and 6 build a play structure, and Years 7 and 8 translate a company into a diorama. In these projects, the pupils go through various stages: from brainstorming and designing to building. ‘You’ll see all these creations on 13 June, including an awards ceremony. So the children are already involved before they even step inside,’ says Diane.
Pioneer
This approach to collaboration is seen as a model by organisations in the Brainport region. ‘We really are a pioneer in this,’ says Diane. ‘The strength lies in the joint commitment of so many entrepreneurs, who offer a wide range of hands-on activities. They make space available, deploy staff and organise the day, starting as early as Friday. That costs more than visitors often realise. But they do it, year after year, because they recognise the need for it.’ Hightech Helmond - de Peel helps these entrepreneurs put together a good programme. ‘In addition, all participants receive plenty of tips in advance, for example via a webinar. And we also say: where possible, ensure there is interaction; children really love that.’ Ryan is also proud of the collaboration. ‘The hands-on DNA of this region is reflected in everything we do: the companies, the activities, the way we work together.’ He looks ahead: ‘Hopefully, in five years’ time, we’ll be here with twice as many companies and visitors.’
