Liam Wilson, 27, who was named Graduate of the Year at the 2025 North East Automotive Alliance (NEAA) Awards, is sharing his success by donating half of his £1,000 prize money to his former school, Washington Academy, to support STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education.
A maintenance engineer at Marelli, a leading global automotive supplier with a strong presence in the North East, Liam’s £500 donation will be used to fund projects at his old school, including a planetarium visit to spark pupils’ interest in science.
Liam, from Washington, said: “I was genuinely shocked to win. You always think, ‘those things don’t happen to people like me.’ Standing on stage accepting the award was surreal and a proud moment. Giving back to the school that helped shape me felt like a full-circle moment.
“I’ve always believed in investing in STEM education. I remember school trips and events being too expensive sometimes and I had to miss out on a few. If this money helps even one student avoid that, then it’s more than worth it.”
Liam credits his early interest in engineering to time spent working with cars alongside his dad and his strong STEM education. His niece, Hollie Wilson, who is currently studying at Washington Academy, is also following a STEM route.
Liam, said: “Hollie has chosen the same EBacc route I did, including maths, physics, chemistry and biology. She’s doing really well and I couldn’t be prouder of her.”
Having progressed from a student at Washington Academy to a successful engineer at a leading global automotive supplier like Marelli, Liam’s donation underscores the tangible pathways from local education to rewarding careers within the region’s automotive industry. It not only provides crucial resources for the school but also serves as an inspiring example for young pupils considering a future in engineering and manufacturing.
The NEAA Awards held at Ramside Hall Hotel in Durham earlier this year, celebrated exceptional talent and innovation across the North East’s automotive sector. More than £18,000 was raised on the night, bringing total donations since the awards began in 2018 to £94,000. These funds support a wide range of schools and STEM programmes across the region, including Wardley Primary School, Coatham Primary School, Epinay School, Our Lady Queen of Peace, Washington Academy, Albany Village Primary School and Portobello Primary School.
Furthermore, STEM initiatives like Primary Engineer will also benefit from the donations.
Paul Butler, CEO of the North East Automotive Alliance, said “Liam’s decision to donate half of his prize money back to his former school is a fantastic example of giving back and investing in the future of our industry. Supporting STEM education is vital to maintaining our region’s reputation as a centre for innovation and engineering excellence. Liam’s generosity and ambition make him a real role model for young people aspiring to a career in automotive engineering.”
The NEAA represents more than 280 member companies, driving collaboration, innovation and skills development across the region’s dynamic automotive sector.