The Dragons' Den model has demonstrated its credibility in bridging the gap between academia and industry, creating a platform where innovation thrives. Recently, Birmingham City University’s MA Design Management students, in collaboration with BIM4Water, showcased the effectiveness of this model.
Talent on Tap: Filling Roles for a Sustainable Future brought together industry leaders, academics, and undergraduate and postgraduate students from the College of Architecture to understand how we train and bring talent to the water sector and retain them. A key highlight of the event was the students’ presentations from the Dragon’s Den event, which took place in November 2024, where they applied design management principles to address wicked problems in the water sector. Working with BIM4Water, students proposed user-centric solutions focused on sustainability and digitalisation, such as optimising water distribution networks with digital tools and promoting sustainable materials for infrastructure projects. Their presentations showcased real-world applications through modelling and 3D simulations, ensuring their ideas aligned with industry needs. The Dragons' Den event was exemplary in showcasing the value of collaboration between industry and academia. By partnering with BIM4Water, the students engaged directly with real-world challenges, while industry experts gained insight into innovative ideas from academia.
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In addition to presenting their solutions, students gained insights into the hiring process. Talks from companies like Hays and Timpson offered valuable information on the essential skills employers seek today, including adaptability, problem-solving, and sustainability expertise—skills that align closely with the student’s training. Timpson emphasised the importance of an inclusive work environment and shared career opportunities. At the same time, representatives from Thames Water and YTL Construction discussed diverse roles and skills needed in the water sector.
De-Andrea a BA Architecture student, "Thank you for having me at the talent on tap event. An eye-opening event into hiring different people from different backgrounds, apprenticeships and further education. Great experience learning from the master students who presented their solutions to world problem of sustainability in the UK water sector, and industry speakers on neurodiversity, the importance of mentoring, digital twin's use in architecture and construction industry and more!"
Ifeanyi an MA Design Management student," it was a great opportunity to present the ideas of my team to this industry audience. Thanks a lot, to Mersha for bringing this event to the students. I got to network and meet people from diverse sectors which is great for my confidence and employability."
The event demonstrated the value of collaboration between industry and academia. Students refined their ideas by engaging with industry professionals and gaining practical knowledge about the sector’s trends and needs. This collaboration created an environment where students could better understand the professional landscape and prepare for their future careers.
In conclusion, the Talent on Tap event highlighted the power of industry-academia partnerships in preparing students to lead and drive change in the water sector. Through these collaborations, Birmingham City University’s College of Architecture students are well-equipped to contribute to a more sustainable, innovative future.
For detail on the dragon’s den event in November: https://www.bcu.ac.uk/subject-areas/architecture/working-in-industry/dragons-den-by-ma-design-management-students
For more details on MA Design management: https://www.bcu.ac.uk/courses/design-management-ma-2025-26