Mike Lambert

receiving his Stephenson Award from Dr Shini Somara with Master Engineer Eur Ing Penny Taylor, JP and Clerk Cdr Peter Gracey VR RN [photo courtesy of Mark Witter Photography] 

Mike Lambert’s involvement in STEM outreach spans over a decade, with his dedication only increasing since his retirement from Cummins.  Each year he coordinates projects across 30 schools, involving approximately 150 students and teachers. His long-term commitment has seen him take a leadership role in five of these schools, directly guiding students through complex engineering challenges. The primary focus of these projects is the construction of Greenpower electric cars, with Mike then organizing local heats, thereby offering students hands-on competition in sustainable automotive technology.

A key element of Mike’s success is his ability to build and sustain collaborations. His leadership has secured financial support from local companies and organizations, including Cummins, RTC North, and the Cleveland Scientific Institution. His successful outreach would not be possible without the extensive network of support he has created.

One recent project, driven by his vision, involved international cooperation between a UK school and an orphanage in Uzbekistan. It enabled students to work together via Zoom to construct both junior and senior Greenpower cars. Funded by Cummins and supported by local Cummins personnel in Uzbekistan, the project not only provided a unique cultural exchange but also highlighted the transformative power of engineering education.

Mike Lambert’s dedication, leadership, and commitment to STEM outreach exemplify the values celebrated by the Stephenson Award. His efforts have enriched countless lives, fostering a new generation of engineers through innovation and collaboration.

The Stephenson Award is for those who have been particularly successful in encouraging young people to study engineering with an emphasis, but not exclusively, on mechanical engineering. In 1997, members of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers made donations to fund a Worshipful Company of Engineers Loving Cup to mark the Institution’s 150th Anniversary. Donations in excess of those needed for the Loving Cup were used to establish the Stephenson Award and further donations were received from members in later years, supplemented by a substantial grant from Rolls-Royce plc. The Engineers’ Company acknowledges the assistance of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers and the EDT (formerly the Engineering Development Trust) with nominations for this Award.

The Worshipful Company of Engineers Charitable Trust (the Engineers Trust) acknowledges excellence in engineering, supports engineering education and research, gives grants and assists in the relief of hardship and poverty.