About a hundred students from various provincial schools joined the fifth edition of Innovation Day, the hallmark educational-innovation event organized by the Federation of Metal Entrepreneurs of Alicante Province (Fempa). The day centers on drawing young minds toward the regional business landscape, with technology and new ideas taking the spotlight—an effort to keep talent close to industry needs. — Fempa 2024
Participating schools this year included Jesuitas Alicante, Colegio Santísimo Sacramento FEYDA, Salesianos Elche, Colegio Calasancio, IES Pare Victoria, and Virgen de las Nieves. The students, in their fourth year of ESO and in Bachillerato, formed teams to tackle challenges posed by sector-leading companies such as Centro Porsche Alicante, Indra, Benigar, and GDV Mobility. The collaboration offered a real-world sandbox where education meets enterprise, and where young people can showcase problem-solving chops in a supportive, competitive setting. — Fempa 2024
Every team’s proposals stood out for a clear emphasis on technology, innovation, and disruptive thinking. The common goal was to contribute to a more sustainable future and to generate greater value for society through practical, forward-looking ideas. The energy of the ideas reflected a shared belief: future progress depends on bold experimentation and cooperative effort between schools and the business community. — Fempa 2024
Innovation Day does more than provide a platform for students to apply their knowledge. It also opens doors for companies to engage with rising talent and to explore fresh, innovative solutions to current challenges. The event thus acts as a bridge, turning youthful creativity into tangible opportunities for collaboration and growth within the regional economy. — Fempa 2024
Fempa remains committed to promoting innovation and professional development by continuing close collaborations with educational centers. The organization highlights the wide range of career opportunities in the business world and underscores the value of Vocational Training as a direct route to the labor market. This message resonates across the community as schools, students, and employers align on practical pathways to success. — Fempa 2024
Challenges
Indra’s challenge focused on reducing water consumption among young people through a technology-driven solution. GDV Mobility sought new, innovative approaches to enhance the shopping experience for its customers, while Benigar asked participants to imagine new services and experiences that could engage and surprise younger generations in their facilities. Porsche’s brief this year emphasized creativity, inviting ideas for new services or experiences that demonstrate leadership in electrification and digitalization. — Fempa 2024
These challenges pushed students to translate classroom know-how into practical, scalable concepts. They highlighted the importance of cross-disciplinary teamwork, user-centric design, and the ability to articulate a clear value proposition—elements that add immediate relevance to both educational outcomes and industry needs. — Fempa 2024
Innovation Day remains a pivotal moment on the regional educational and business calendar. It strengthens the bonds between the local learning ecosystem and the commercial sector, fueling a future driven by innovation and talent. The ongoing collaboration signals a shared commitment to preparing young people for the realities of a fast-changing economy while inviting firms to tap into fresh perspectives and emerging skills. — Fempa 2024