Carl Arntzen, chief executive of Worcester Bosch, with the new chancellor of Birmingham City University, Ade Adepitan.
Photo credit: Jason Sheldon, Junction 10 Photography.
The Honorary Doctorate recognises Carl’s exceptional contributions to fostering diversity and inclusion in engineering. His efforts include initiatives to encourage more young women and ethnic minority groups to pursue careers in the profession. Carl has consistently emphasised the importance of promoting engineering opportunities at an early age- ideally during primary schooling or between the ages of 12 and 13 - when students begin shaping their interests and career aspirations.
The work Carl has spearheaded at Worcester Bosch reflects this commitment. The organisation has developed children’s books, participated in Lego League events and actively engaged its STEM ambassadors to inspire young minds. Carl’s involvement stems beyond his work with the Greater Birmingham & Solihull Institute of Technology (IoT) and his support for the global Women In Engineering movement.
However, Carl stressed that challenges remain in creating a truly inclusive profession. Stating that early intervention is essential to address underrepresentation within the engineering field. Plus diverse workforces, which drive innovation and industry growth, require sustained focus and leadership.
Carl’s own journey from a 20 year old intern at Worcester Bosch to CEO underscores the importance of creating opportunities and championing diversity within the workplace. He said; “I felt extremely honoured to receive the Honorary Doctorate from Birmingham City University and it has strengthened my resolve to continue encouraging all young people, particularly young women and those from ethnic minority backgrounds here in the UK, to seriously consider a career in engineering.”