Walter Helwich Articles

Walter Helwich Awarded for His Contribution to Science

Walter M. Helwich, a mechanical engineer and father of two boys, has been awarded a prize for encouraging young people towards a career in the field. He received the Morgan award from the Institution of Mechanical Engineers at the beginning of September.

After working as an engineer for more than 30 years, Helwich decided to start a technology club at a local high school, to encourage children about science, technology and engineering. Since the club opening, he has developed a wide range of projects, teaching them to make working models using everyday household objects and the tools available in the school cupboards.

After a while, the waiting list became bigger than the club itself, which inspired Helwich to gather some of their favorite projects, and put them in a book of instructions, so that every child could do them at home.
Wanting to reach as many kids as possible, he then began forming science clubs and workshops in other schools. Helwich also did a video presentation, which got 50 000 views on the first day alone. 

The award was presented to him by the president of the Mechanical Engineers Center at a formal ceremony at the Engineering Institution headquarters in New York. 

The presenter said it was a real pleasure to see people like Walter Helwich become great role models for young people and simply make a difference in the field, adding that from here on he can only continue to thrive in the engineering world.

"It is a great honor to receive this recognition," said Walter  in his acceptance speech. "This project will allow me to continue pursuing high impact research and education activities, and contribute to the further education of the youth." He also promised to continue his services for the needs of science and engineering, and to open even more clubs and workshops.