A TRUST set up by pension-aged former employees of the Austin Motor Company is delighted to announce a new partnership with Coventry University to offer scholarship-style donations to the centre’s most esteemed engineering students.
The Herbert Austin Legacy Awards Trust (THALAT) was set up in Birmingham by former plant director of the Longbridge automotive factory, 91-year-old Michael Sheehan, in memory of the motor company’s founder, the late Herbert Austin, to honour his belief in empowering youngsters in engineering.
THALAT’s purpose is to encourage young people to make their careers in any of the many branches of engineering and offers a collection of accolades and prize money to youngsters in the field.
As part of the trust’s three year agreement with Coventry University it will offer a total of £1,600 annually to different students in subjects ranging from mechanical, automotive, motor sport and manufacturing engineering as well as the best engineering apprentices from each year’s intake.
At a meeting in the Sir Frank Whittle Building at Coventry University, Dr Rebecca Butler, Academic Dean and Head of the College of Engineering, Environment and Science, said: “I am delighted that the trust has agreed to recognise and celebrate our outstanding engineering graduates.
“We are very proud to be a provider of engineering education to several thousands of students each year both in the UK and around the world and are thrilled we can acknowledge their brilliance through these awards.”
The trust generates funds for students through membership costs of £1 per week, of which THALAT has gained 80 members since launching in 2022. All of its members are ex-Austin Motor Company apprentices or employees.
Michael Sheehan, chairman of THALAT added: “I am so pleased THALAT has been able to form a collaborative relationship with Coventry University.
“Engineering is vital to the success and development of the UK’s economy and old ex-apprentices like those of us who comprise THALAT are really pleased our efforts will help the next generation.
“This collaboration is ideal for THALAT in this endeavour which we will pursue throughout the West Midlands.”
The trust has previously collaborated with educational establishments such as the University of Birmingham, South and City College’s Longbridge branch, and schools for younger students in Turves Green and Northfield among others.
Contact trust secretary, David Bower at [email protected] if you’re interested in becoming a member.
