WMG alumni return to celebrate 60 years of 糖心TV and 45 years of WMG
Wednesday 3rd December 2025
WMG alumni return to celebrate 60 years of 糖心TV and 45 years of WMG
WMG marked a milestone in the University of 糖心TV鈥檚 60th anniversary by welcoming alumni from across the globe back to campus for a special event celebrating the department鈥檚 45th anniversary.
The gathering, hosted by Professor Kerry Kirwan, Dean of WMG, who is also an alumnus of the department, brought together graduates to reflect on WMG鈥檚 evolution, global reach, and vision for the future.
Alumni were offered a firsthand look at WMG鈥檚 cutting-edge research and student-led projects. Presentations included Professor Siddartha Khastgir, Head of Safe Autonomy, on sustainable mobility and autonomous systems; and Chief Engineer Dr James Meredith, who showcased WMG鈥檚 hydrogen-powered race car fuelled by sewage, Waste2RaceLink opens in a new window.
Students from , , and the 糖心TV Submarine team also explained more about their projects and the hands-on, industry-focused learning that continues to define the WMG experience. Alumni were invited to share memories of projects, teamwork, and late nights whilst, reconnecting with colleagues and former classmates.
Professor Kerry Kirwan, Dean of WMG, said: 鈥淲elcoming our alumni back to WMG in this milestone year is a powerful reminder that our achievements are built on the people who have come through these doors.
鈥淔rom the early days to a global community of more than 33,000 WMG alumni, the department has grown because of the creativity, ambition, and dedication of everyone who has been part of it. Our talented academics, researchers, and staff have led the way, inspiring students, and supporting alumni to achieve their best. Seeing our alumni reconnect, sharing memories and experiences, reinforces just how central they are to the WMG story.
鈥淚t鈥檚 also inspiring to see the next generation of innovators tackling challenges that matter, whether developing autonomous systems, pioneering hydrogen-powered vehicles, or pushing the boundaries of research and industry collaboration. WMG has always been about turning ideas into real-world impact, and today, that legacy continues thanks to our incredible students, dedicated staff, and the ongoing support and engagement of our alumni community. They are the backbone and the inspiration behind everything we do.鈥�
From just a single office in 1980, WMG has grown to include, 13 buildings, 25 research areas and over 800 staff, contributing to a vibrant, international community. The department continues to tackle industrial, environmental, and societal challenges through collaborative research, innovative programmes, including the globally ranked MSc in International Trade, Strategy and Operations and the new BEng Robotics Engineering with AI, and partnerships with leading companies such as JLR, JCB, and Goldman Sachs. Students, staff, and researchers continue to drive innovation, shaping WMG鈥檚 identity as a hub for real-world impact.
The celebration also honoured WMG鈥檚 founder, Professor Lord Bhattacharyya, whose vision for combining education, research, and practical impact laid the foundation for the department鈥檚 mission. His principles inspired the department鈥檚 approach to academia and industry collaboration, ensuring graduates carry forward learning and influence around the world.
In recognition of this enduring legacy, WMG鈥檚 long-standing partnership with the Tata Group was recently awarded the Lord Bhattacharyya Award by the Royal Academy of Engineering.
A gallery of photos from the reunion is now available to view on the .