Sheffield University wins Innovate UK award
The University of Sheffield's School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering in collaboration with Matrix TSL and Magnokinetics Ltd have received the Best University-Led, Industrially Focused Skills Intervention Award for its pioneering 'Practical PEMD for All' project, awarded by the Innovate UK & the Electric Revolution Skills Hub.
The award celebrates the team’s efforts in bridging the gap between education and industry by providing innovative, practical training in Power Electronics, Machines, and Drives (PEMD).
The 'Practical PEMD for All project' is a response to the growing demand for skilled professionals in the rapidly evolving electrification sector, providing accessible, cost-effective and industry-aligned training.
The project features advanced 1kW EV emulators designed by the university to replicate real-world industrial applications; modular teaching kits developed by Matrix TSL for broad adoption in further education and vocational training; and a bespoke remote learning platform, allowing students and professionals to engage with practical training regardless of their location.
Through this approach, the project has already trained over 200 students, equipping them with industry-relevant skills to meet the UK's growing workforce demands in power electronics and electrification.
The project has gained significant industry recognition, with partnerships spanning Pearson Education, Further Education Colleges, and leading UK universities (University of Warwick, Coventry University).
The initiative has been showcased at major industry events, including IET PEMD 2024 and the International Conference on Electrical Machines (ICEM 2024), where it attracted widespread interest from academia and the private sector.
Building on this success, the project team says it aims to expand its reach both nationally and internationally, supporting the next generation of engineers as the UK transitions to a more electrified and sustainable future.
