Inaugurated in 2007 following a generous donation from his family, the John Blackburn Main Award is named for a former member and Fellow of the IMarEST for 50 years.
John Blackburn Main was a former director of Shell Marine International, whose career had started in the drawing office of Scott’s Shipyard, Greenock. Throughout his life, John encouraged education and training for young engineers, something which is continued with this award through the placement of students in industry.
How does the Award work?
Each year, one or more students from the University of Strathclyde are selected by a judging panel to undertake an expenses-paid one to three month work placement at a shipyard in a country different to the winner's country of birth or citizenship.
Students are required to nominate themselves, with the winners being selected according to:
- Their academic record
- An explanation of how this placement would augment their studies and how this placement would improve their professional and personal development
Winning student(s) will be expected to use this experience to promote/enthuse other students – possibly by giving a short presentation to first and second year students studying on the same degree course.
How to apply
Interested applicants should submit:
- A short statement (500 words max) describing themselves, their academic and personal qualities and achievements and the benefits they believe they will gain from being awarded a scholarship
- A CV
These should be submitted to the Awards Team at [email protected] by 23 February 2025.
Further details can be found in the criteria document.