Pav Bhogal — 150 year interview

Pav Bhogal is a 25-year-old engineer who received his Whitworth medal less than a year ago, but already he's thinking about the next generations. Working in the naval ships division at BAE Systems, Bhogal helps students with difficult backgrounds or those from ethnic minorities to enter engineering.

Teaming up with other organisations, including schools and universities, he helps compile CVs, prepare for interviews and learn how to present to potential employers.

"One of the biggest problems is the skills gap and trying to recruit and retain enough engineers. There is a very real issue with an ageing population of engineers. So it's about being able to transfer and retain knowledge."

Getting the Whitworth Scholarship allowed Bhogal, who works in software integration, to study smarter and buy some of the tools he needed, including a laptop. He also sees the programme as a step towards professional registration and a brilliant networking opportunity.

"One of my philosophies is to never say no. If you're given an opportunity, always go for it. Say yes as much as you can. Get involved as much as you can. It's a great support network and it helps you develop an understanding of the industry."