Scott Russell wins Pirelli Best Student Award

Scott Russell, an engineering student from the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) has won the Best Student Award during his placement year with Pirelli UK.

The computer-aided engineering student has spent the last year working for Pirelli in Carlisle as part of the process development team. He has helped colleagues and external suppliers to improve production methods and the approval processes for new tyre sizes.

Not only has the 21-year-old impressed his bosses so much that his placement was extended for an extra eight weeks, he was also crowned Best Student above all of the other students on placement with Pirelli.

Russell commented: “When I found out that I had won I was surprised, but also happy to see that my work had made a good impression on Pirelli. Over the last year I have been able to experience a professional working life, grown in confidence and met new people.

“I’ve also enjoyed the opportunity to practice the skills developed through school and university and feel that my experience has cemented these skills needed for any professional environment.”

To win the award Russell had to present to company directors on areas such as innovation, risk taking and potential for growth.

Pirelli UK Managing Director Dominic Sandivasci said: “Scott’s hard work, effort and great attitude have certainly not gone unnoticed in a year where there were a number of high quality candidates for this accolade. We want to thank Scott immensely for all that he has done in his 12 months with us and also wish him the very best for the future.”

Scott will now return to UCLan for the final year of his studies. He added: “Through my course I have been given opportunities to practice the skills learnt in lectures in the University workshop and also get involved with extra-curricular projects.

“Due to thoroughly enjoying my placement year with Pirelli, I wish to continue a career in engineering. I enjoy researching and developing innovative projects and I’m excited to see what future technologies can offer.”