Liverpool John Moore’s University welcomed members from the Manufacturers’ Alliance on campus in February as host of their latest thought leadership event, focussing on technology and innovation.
Business leaders from across the manufacturing sector, who are members of the Technology & Innovation Peer Group, were among those who visited the university and had the opportunity to gain insights from the teaching and research undertaken by the university in the fields of health, innovation, technology and science.
Members of the Alliance were invited to tour the university’s engineering labs where they explored autonomous robots, 3D printing and augmented reality (AR) applications in practice before learning about the use of drones in environmental mapping.
They also had the opportunity to experience the high-tech teaching and learning simulation suites that provide students and industry professionals with a realistic, immersive environment to practice advanced skills. The university boasts dedicated simulation suites for both healthcare and for maritime training.
In addition to peer group discussions, attendees visited the university’s on-campus test houses designed for ‘road testing’ construction materials to make building homes greener, more sustainable and cost-effective to run.
They also met with members of the Horizons team – a flagship innovation support programme in the Liverpool City Region dedicated to helping SMEs. The team shared how the higher education sector is helping to future proof businesses, unlocking their full potential as university-based experts are supporting business with the adoption of advanced technology in their workplaces, such as in the manufacturing process.
Anthony Walker, Strategic Manager at LJMU for Horizons said: “In the Faculty of Health, Innovation, Technology and Science a lot of our innovation is centred on applied research solutions. We were delighted to showcase a snapshot of our activity to industrial colleagues as it is key to show novel technology being used in industrially relevant environments – demonstrating the art of the possible and giving confidence that these solutions can truly have an impact in industry.”
Phillipa Glover, Chair of the Manufacturers’ Alliance Technology & Innovation peer group said “Learning from both industry peers and those outside of the sector is essential for long-term business success. This month’s technology & innovation peer group took some time away from the shop floor to look at technology & innovation from a fresh perspective. LJMU provided outstanding hospitality and opened the groups minds to what is possible in an accessible way. The group were energised with new ideas and loved seeing the medical manikins in action, being the captain of the maritime stimulator and exploring some of the digital technology that is available today in the demo area with their peers.”
Mark Lee, Robotic & Automation Project Engineer at JJ Smith said “It’s absolutely fascinating to see how technology & innovation adapting and being used. How LJMU are using cutting edge technology is astonishing. Whilst some of the areas may not apply directly to my role, it opens the mind to possibilities and provides creative inspiration.”
Saul Moorecroft, Design Engineer at Heaford said “It was great to see the technology currently available and how its applied to real-life scenarios, As always having the opportunity to share any challenges with the group and receive their advice is invaluable.”
Innovation at LJMU
LJMU is at the forefront of innovation and pioneering research that transforms industries. From cutting-edge facial reconstruction to groundbreaking maritime engineering, LJMU’s expertise makes a global impact.
The Manufacturers’ Alliance Technology & Innovation Peer Group
The Technology and Innovation Peer Group is a dynamic peer group where forward-thinking professionals can come together to share insights, exchange ideas, and explore cutting-edge ideas. Whether you’re an engineer manager, a product designer, or a business leader, the group provides a unique space to collaborate, learn, and grow.
