Engineering students from University Centre Newbury (UCN) had the privilege of embarking on an exclusive tour of Ocado’s cutting-edge grocery fulfilment centre, providing them with a unique insight into the advanced technologies utilised in the daily operations of the facility. Led by Colin Graham, the lead engineering operations manager, the students were afforded the opportunity to observe firsthand the impressive 217,000-square-foot Andover facility, with the capacity to process 60,000 customer shopping orders on a weekly basis.
Throughout the tour, the students were introduced to the Ocado Smart Platform, which harnesses the capabilities of over 800 robots equipped with artificial intelligence, robotics, and automation to efficiently process customer orders. Mr Graham delivered a thorough explanation of Ocado’s pioneering use of technology and its impact on supply chain management, providing the students with a valuable insight into the practical application of their engineering studies.
Stephen Payne, the programme leader for engineering at UCN, conveyed his gratitude for the invaluable experience, noting that it was an exceptional opportunity for the students to witness automation at its finest. He also expressed appreciation for the support and cooperation extended by Ocado in facilitating these insightful industry visits, underscoring the significance of exposing students to world-class technology and supply chain operations as part of their education.
At UCN, the focus remains on preparing students for prosperous careers in engineering and technology by offering them real-world experience. The emphasis lies in creating opportunities that equip students with the requisite skills and knowledge to excel in their chosen fields and meet the demands of the industry. Further details on UCN’s HND Engineering courses are available on their website for individuals interested in obtaining more information.
The collaboration between UCN and industry leaders such as Ocado not only enriches the educational experience of the students, but also exemplifies the dedication to forming meaningful partnerships that leave a lasting impact on the future generation of engineers and technologists. Through its commitment to providing students with exposure to real-world scenarios, UCN remains steadfast in cultivating a learning environment conducive to fostering successful careers in the engineering and technology sectors.
In conclusion, the opportunity for engineering students from UCN to tour Ocado’s advanced grocery fulfilment centre underscores the commitment to offering a comprehensive education that extends beyond the confines of the classroom. These invaluable industry visits enable students to gain a deeper understanding of the practical application of their studies, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the dynamic field of engineering and technology.