FORMER Warwickshire College and Alcester Academy student Ben Masters, now a Coventry University undergraduate, wowed judges at the annual Steve Olney Awards, hosted by leading design engineering and recruitment company Contechs.
Ben who comes from Alcester was in the final three amongst a shortlist of candidates from the University’s best design students who recently showcased their highly skilled designs.
Held at the Coventry University Design Workshop, the event was attended by over 100 people, providing the students with a prime opportunity to meet and network with some of the industry’s leading experts.
Initially launched in memory of Steve Olney, a Contechs founding director who died suddenly in 2005, the awards recognise students who best demonstrate the personal values held by Steve – namely design innovation, technology, craftsmanship and helping to enhance the lives of others around them.
As a business Contechs prides itself on furthering next generational talent and this commitment has been reflected in their drive to continue Steve Olney’s legacy and champion Coventry University’s designers of tomorrow.
Ben scooped second place for his innovative ‘Project Royale’ – an incredible all-electric, self-sustainable Maritime-focused hotel, centred around promoting the ultimate yachting experience.
Peter Jarvis, Group Managing Director at Contechs, said: “The standards of entries have considerably improved year on year, but this was nothing less than extraordinary which is a testament to the University’s School of Art and Design.
“The role of the automotive designer in the modern age is to consider other factors than just how best to move from A to B.
“How it impacts the environment, comfortability, a solution it may solve and aesthetics are also fundamental features that end-users look for – and all of these considerations have been made in this year’s designs.”
