The North East STEM Foundation (NESF) has partnered with Ducati UK to launch a new regional STEM competition aimed at engaging the next generation of engineers, designers and innovators.
The 2026 competition, titled ‘Build the Villain’s Machine’, invites secondary school and college students aged 11 to 16 from across the North East to reimagine a Ducati motorcycle as a high-performance ‘villain machine’, combining engineering principles with creative design and storytelling.
Participating teams will select a Ducati model, such as the Panigale, Diavel or Monster, and explore how it operates before redesigning it with enhanced performance, advanced materials and bespoke features. Entries must also include a distinct identity, name and backstory, supported by visual concepts and technical specifications.
The initiative forms part of NESF’s wider mission to connect North East classroom learning with real-world industry applications, while supporting skills development in key areas such as engineering, design and innovation.
The winning team will receive an exclusive Ducati & Silverstone Performance Experience, including a behind-the-scenes visit to Ducati UK’s headquarters to gain insight into the development of high-performance motorcycles.
Students will also visit the Silverstone Circuit, where they will take part in a guided tour of the track and museum, as well as meet industry professionals and explore engineering in a live environment.
Tania Cooper MBE, Chair of NESF, said: “This competition is about inspiring young people to see engineering as creative, innovative and full of possibility.
“By partnering with Ducati, we’re giving students in the North East a unique opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world performance engineering. The chance to visit Ducati and experience Silverstone is truly special.”
Fabrizio Cazzoli, Managing Director of Ducati UK, added: “We are proud to support the North East STEM Foundation and its work to inspire young people across the region. Encouraging future talent to explore engineering, design, and innovation is something we are deeply passionate about.”
Each school is permitted to enter one team of between eight and 12 students, with submissions judged on engineering understanding, creativity, design impact and presentation. Shortlisted teams will also be recognised at the NESF Annual Charity Dinner in September 2026.
The competition is now open, with schools required to register their interest by April 30, 2026. Final submissions must be completed by June 19, 2026.
