STEM Opportunities

We're excited to share some incredible volunteering opportunities in our local area that are looking for engineering support!

For more details contact: Andrew.Wasson@member.imeche.org

(Last Updated: 19/09/2025)

SS Freshspring Trust, Bidford

๐ŸšขJoin the Crew – Volunteer with SS Freshspring Trust!๐Ÿ› ๏ธโš“

Ever wanted to be part of something truly historic? Based in Bideford, North Devon, the SS Freshspring is a unique steamship on the National Register of Historic Vessels, and we're bringing her back to life — with your help!

๐ŸงฐWe’re looking for volunteers of all kinds – no marine experience needed, just enthusiasm and a willingness to get involved.

Here’s how you can help:
๐Ÿ”ง Restore vintage steamship equipment
๐ŸŽจ Tackle ongoing painting & maintenance
๐Ÿ“š Be a guide for summer Sunday visitors
๐Ÿ“ฃ Help with fundraising or community outreach
๐Ÿงช Support our STEM education work with local schools
๐Ÿค Connect with other charities and marine groups

๐Ÿ—“๏ธVolunteer Wednesdays are full of life, laughs, and shared skills — our team includes engineers, mechanics, ex-mariners, and passionate locals.
๐Ÿ›ณ๏ธThe ship is also open to the public on Sundays during the summer — free of charge!

Our dream? To see SS Freshspring back at sea under her own steam, carrying passengers and inspiring future generations.

TRAX – Inspiring Young Minds Through Mechanics, Abbotsham

Join Our Volunteer Team at TRAX – Inspiring Young Minds Through Mechanics

We’re looking for new volunteers to join our small, passionate team at TRAX, a vehicle mechanics course run by our charity for young people aged 14–18 who are struggling in mainstream education.

TRAX has been running for several years, and it's only possible thanks to the dedication of amazing volunteers who give up one day a week (Wednesdays) to make a real difference in these young people's lives.

Sadly, some of our long-standing volunteers have recently stepped back due to age, and we are in urgent need of new volunteers to continue this important work.

What We Do

  • Run sessions during school terms from9:30 AM to 2:15 PM in our well-equipped workshop in Abbotsham.

  • Teach theory in the morning and offer a hands-on practical task in the afternoon to reinforce learning.

  • Work on a wide range of vehicles and machines, including:

    • Cars and vans

    • Motorbikes and go-karts

    • Dune buggies and mobility scooters

    • Gardening equipment and dumper trucks

    • Community projects (e.g., North Devon Biosphere’s education trailer)

Our workshop includes 2 vehicle ramps, a tyre changer, MIG welder, hydraulic press, and a wide selection of tools. We prioritize safe tool use and an encouraging, light-hearted atmosphere where everyone feels valued.

Who We’re Looking For

  • Anyone with mechanical experience(professional or hobbyist)

  • People who enjoy working with teenagers in a supportive setting

  • Volunteers who can commit to one day a week (term time Wednesdays)

Whether you’re recently retired, semi-retired, or just have time and skills to share, we’d love to welcome you. Come along for a visit and see first hand the work we do and the impact it has.

Interested or want to learn more? Help us keep the wheels turning – and inspire the next generation of young mechanics.



© 2023 Institution of Mechanical Engineers. IMechE is a registered charity in England and Wales number 206882

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