The Arkwright Scholarships Trust is an independent charity that identifies and nurtures future leaders in engineering and technical design, acting as a beacon to the most talented science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) students in UK schools.

Joe applied through his affiliated school, Droitwich Spa High School, following a recommendation from his teacher. He completed his application form and sat a two-hour design/technology aptitude exam along with 1,377 other candidates.

He scored highly and was one of 651 candidates who were invited to attend an interview as the final stage of the selection process. Joe’s interview was held at Loughborough University where he presented to the interview panel his design/technology project and impressed them with his knowledge of practical and potential leadership skills.

He was one of 393 candidates recommended for a scholarship by his interviewers, and was matched to the FETA criteria as a potential sponsorship opportunity. From a choice of three potential scholars, Joe was then selected by FETA as its next Arkwright scholar.

FETA has been a sponsor of Arkwright Engineering Scholarships since 2016 and recognises the key role they play in encouraging students to pursue a STEM-related career.

Russell Beattie, chief executive of FETA, said: “Joe has shown outstanding dedication and flair in what was a hugely talented and competitive pool of talent. We at FETA are very proud to sponsor Joe and I believe a very promising and rewarding career awaits him.”

Joe added: “I am very happy to receive this award and I am also extremely grateful that an organisation like FETA has shown this belief in me. It really makes all the hard work worthwhile and has given me a massive confidence boost for the next stage in my career.”