Leading soft drinks company Britvic teams up with the Science Museum as it opens its doors to brand new interactive gallery
Today, the Science Museum in London is opening its doors to a new, free, interactive gallery called ‘Technicians’ that aims to inspire young people to consider technical careers across a range of industries.
Technicians: The David Sainsbury Gallery brings to life the fascinating and vital careers of technicians working in multiple disciplines, from manufacturing to health science to renewable energy sectors – with Britvic technicians at the heart of the action.
In collaboration with the Science Museum, three Britvic technicians – Bilal Yasin, Beth Highfield and Holly Cuthill – will feature in the gallery by hosting workshops for visitors throughout the year. Bilal also features in a film showcased as part of the gallery, which demonstrates the breadth of industries needing technicians. The film shows Bilal working the labs at Britvic’s head office in Hemel Hempstead – where family favourite brands such as J2O, Robinsons and Tango are developed – sharing an insight into the role of a technician in the soft drinks industry.
The workshops will be open to 11-16 year olds and their families, enabling young people to put their questions to the technicians and see the impact they could make as they explore a potential future career.
Sir Ian Blatchford, Director and Chief Executive of the Science Museum, said: “Technicians are long overdue their time in the spotlight, as one of the country’s most vital teams, driving economic growth in an amazing range of sectors. In generating excitement among 11–16-year-olds about technical roles, and challenging out-dated perceptions, this interactive gallery encapsulates our core mission of inspiring futures.
“We are thrilled to be shining much needed light on these important career choices, particularly at a time when young people are demanding better and earlier careers advice and the chance to shape a greener and more diverse economy.”
Bilal Yasin, Research and Development Lab Technician at Britvic, said: “It’s so important that we find new ways to inspire young people to explore the career opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and maths.
“With the new Science Museum gallery, we can showcase the different paths people take and the incredible industries that we get to work in.
“I’m really proud to be a part of this project and can’t wait to take part in the live panel sessions over the year.”
Britvic is committed to the learning and development of employees as well as giving back to the communities it serves.
Working with the Science Museum on the gallery launch allows Britvic employees to develop skills in public speaking, act as ambassadors for their roles and support young people exploring career options.
This partnership reinforces Britvic’s continued support of youth employment and education as part of its Healthier People sustainability strategy – with Tango recently announcing a three-year charitable partnership with The Prince’s Trust, with a promise to donate £100,000 in the first year alone.