Background
Omar Dawaba is a University of Kent Mechanical Engineering Technician who supports teaching and research by working closely with PhD researchers and academic staff in the workshops and makerspace. His role involves providing hands-on technical support across a wide range of processes, including laser cutting, 3D printing, CNC machining, welding, and equipment setup, and ensuring high standards of health and safety.
Through this work, Omar plays a vital role in enabling practical learning, supporting research projects, and maintaining safe and effective workshop environments.
Engagement with T-PIKE
Omar has actively engaged in Knowledge Exchange through a range of T-PIKE activities and technical networks. These have provided opportunities to share practice, learn from peers, and gain exposure to new approaches across institutions and sectors.
Key events he attended include the UK RAS STEPS Knowledge Exchange Workshop at the University of Cambridge, the UK RAS STEPS Technical Showcase at the Science Museum, the NTPMI Conference in Manchester, a Sustainable Procurement workshop with Eastern Arc, and TechNetCon25.
Omar also took part in the Your Entrepreneurs Scheme (YES) competition at Syngenta’s research centre, where his team finished as runners-up, gaining valuable experience of working in a commercial and innovation-focused environment.
Outcomes
Through his engagement with T-PIKE, Omar has strengthened his connection to the wider technical community. He has shared his own practice, learned how other universities support areas such as robotics and autonomous systems, and gained insights into sustainability initiatives including the LEAF programme.
Presenting for the first time at TechNetCon25 marked a significant milestone in Omar’s professional development. Despite finding public speaking challenging, the experience helped build his confidence and encouraged him to engage more actively in professional discussions and knowledge-sharing activities.
Key takeaways
Through his involvement in Knowledge Exchange, Omar has been able to:
- Develop new technical knowledge and ideas through demonstrations and peer learning
- Build confidence in communication and public speaking
- Gain insight into sustainability, innovation, and the broader impact of technical roles
Omar’s experience highlights that technical staff can:
- Play a key role in supporting research, teaching, and innovation
- Benefit from engaging with cross-institutional technical networks
- Build confidence and professional identity through Knowledge Exchange and presentation opportunities
