STUDENTS from the University of Derby will be found work placements as part of a new Masters degree in engineering.
One company, John Brash Ltd, a leading UK manufacturer of timber products for the constructions industry, has already said it will take on a student to help reduce the company's heating bills to make it "greener".
The MSc in innovative engineering solutions course starts in September and the university is working with a number of employers to offer three-month placements to students.
The project is aimed at attracting students already working in the industry as well as those already studying engineering at undergraduate level.
It also aims to help those from under-represented backgrounds in the industry, including women, to enter engineering.
Brian Lancaster, production director at John Brash Ltd, said: "We have already defined a project for the student.
"This is intended to maximise the utilisation of our waste products to reduce our heating bills, carbon emissions and improve our green credentials."
Angela Dean, university head of engineering and technology, said employers would be reaping the benefits of being involved in the project. She said: "Employers are influencing the development of an innovative programme of study and developing a training programme that suits the needs of their organisation.
"They are focusing on specific projects and commissioning bespoke research."
The university's programme was born out of a national £25 million postgraduate support scheme and Derby was one of more than 40 UK universities to be involved. It will help almost 3,000 students in the UK.
