Morson Group has marked ten years of partnership with the University of Salford, celebrating a collaboration that has helped develop engineering and industrial talent across Greater Manchester.
The milestone was recognised at an event held at the University’s Greater Manchester Institute of Technology and the Morson Maker Space, attended by Vice Chancellor Professor Nic Beech, Salford Mayor Paul Dennett and Morson Group Executive Chairman Ged Mason OBE.
The event, titled Powering Progress in Salford, brought together students, educators and industry leaders to reflect on the impact of long-term partnerships between academia and business, particularly across sectors such as Aerospace & Defence and Buildings & Infrastructure.
Over the past decade, the collaboration has focused on building pathways into science, technology, engineering and maths through initiatives led by the Morson STEM Foundation, including the Gerry Mason Engineering Scholarship and mentoring programmes aimed at widening participation in industries such as Energy and Marine.
Professor Nic Beech said the partnership had delivered significant benefits for both students and the wider region.
“Working together we have created something genuinely unique which has brought huge benefits to our students and graduates and to the city as a whole,” he said.
“This partnership embodies everything that is so special about Salford – passion, determination, generosity and a clear commitment to championing local talent.”
Launched in 2015, the Gerry Mason Engineering Scholarship has supported more than 70 students, offering financial backing, industry placements and skills development. Many participants have gone on to careers across key engineering sectors, including roles within Morson Group.
Former scholar James Kelly, now a Senior Contract and Project Manager at Morson, described the programme as “a turning point” in his career.
“Through the programme, I gained invaluable industry experience with Morson, which led to the start of my career and shaped the path I’m on today,” he said.
A key part of the partnership is the Morson Maker Space, which provides students with access to industry-standard tools including 3D printing, CAD design and digital fabrication.
Dr Maria Stukoff, Director of the Maker Space, said the facility had grown into “a vibrant community” focused on experimentation and collaboration.
“Over the past decade thousands of learners have gained practical skills, confidence, and a creative, problem-solving mindset to succeed,” she said.
Speaking at the event, Ged Mason said continued investment in skills would be essential as industries evolve.
“It is essential for the future of key growth sectors that we invest in tomorrow’s talent today,” he said.
“As we step into another decade of working with the University to shape, support and encourage STEM talent, I am enormously proud of what’s been achieved, but also very focused on what lies ahead.”
Morson Group said the partnership will continue to focus on widening access to education and supporting regional growth, as it enters its second decade.
