A B&FC Aerospace Engineering student has won the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) Prize 2025.

Max Copeland (pictured) is the winner of this annual award which recognises outstanding students completing an IET-accredited degree. Prize winners are nominated by their university based on having shown distinction in their studies and securing a first-class degree.

Max is an exceptional BEng Aerospace Engineering student whose resilience, innovation and sense of purpose set him apart.

His final-year dissertation focused on improving accessibility on aircraft, combining academic rigour with real social impact.

Passionate about inclusive design, Max independently contacted industry professionals and potential investors to explore real-world applications for his work – showing initiative and leadership well beyond the classroom.

He also made an impact at B&FC as a student representative, advocating effectively for his peers, and his determination to make a difference makes him a powerful ambassador for higher education.

“Wow – another achievement and another string to my bow,” said Max. “Thank you to all the lecturers at Blackpool and The Fylde College who facilitated my research and development of the accessible aircraft lift.”

Congratulations to Max who also wins two years’ free membership of the IET as part of his prize.