30 April 2026
Minerals Matter is delighted to announce its industry partners for this year’s Big Bang Fair 2026: Tarmac, British Gypsum (part of Saint-Gobain), and EPC-UK.
The Big Bang Fair, held between the 9th – 11th June at the NEC in Birmingham, is the UK’s largest celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM), welcoming more than 20,000 young people over the three days. It provides a unique platform to inspire future talent and showcase the breadth of career opportunities across different areas of STEM and we are delighted to include the minerals and mining sector.
Following a successful debut at the event last year – where thousands of students engaged with interactive activities and hands-on learning – Minerals Matter is excited to return, building on that momentum with the support of leading organisations from across the industry.
Engaging Experiences from Industry Leaders
Tarmac
Tarmac is one of the UK’s leading sustainable building materials and construction solutions businesses, supplying aggregates, asphalt, cement and ready-mix concrete for major infrastructure and local projects.
Showcasing the company through interactive, digital media, Tarmac’s area of the stand will feature virtual reality (VR) headsets, allowing students to explore where construction materials come from and how they are used in real-world projects. Students will also have the opportunity to try on personal protective equipment (PPE) and step into the role of a construction professional.
This marks Tarmac’s second year collaborating with Minerals Matter at The Big Bang Fair. Their continued involvement reflects a shared commitment to inspiring young people and highlighting the diverse, rewarding careers available in construction.
“We’re all working towards the same goal: attracting, engaging, and empowering young people to explore the exciting and rewarding careers that construction offers. Being able to collaborate at such an engaging event is a great way to bring that mission to life and show young people what’s possible.”
Kirsty McKernan, Talent Advisor
Tarmac recruits an early careers cohort each year, including apprentices and graduates. Like many organisations in the industry, they recognise the challenges within talent pipelines, which is why initiatives like The Big Bang are so important to get involved in.
Events like these allow industry to reach as many students as possible, challenge perceptions of the industry, and showcase the wide range of roles and career pathways available. Construction offers long‑term, fulfilling careers, and Tarmac are passionate about helping young people see how they can grow, develop, and thrive within the sector.
British Gypsum
British Gypsum, part of the Saint-Gobain group, is the UK’s leading manufacturer of interior lining systems, producing plaster and plasterboard products from gypsum, a naturally occurring mineral extracted in the UK.
At the Big Bang fair, British Gypsum will bring the world of mining and materials to life through immersive experiences. Their VR technology will take visitors underground, offering a unique insight into gypsum extraction. They will also showcase raw materials alongside the processes used to transform them into everyday construction products.
“At British Gypsum we work tirelessly supporting Saint-Gobain’s Purpose of Making the World a Better Home through Light and Sustainable Construction. As we work towards this, minerals industry professionals are vital in securing the raw materials to make this happen whether it be in construction products or to support the energy transition. To deliver this it is imperative that we inspire the next generation to enter the profession. This initiative by Minerals Matter is so important to inspire and communicate the opportunities the industry offers for future talented professionals.”
Richard Ogle, Mining Operations Manager
As part of Saint-Gobain, British Gypsum is driven by a purpose of making the world a better home through sustainable construction. Their participation highlights the critical role of minerals in supporting both construction and the energy transition, as well as the importance of inspiring the next generation of industry professionals.
EPC-UK
EPC-UK is a specialist in commercial explosives and blasting services, supporting quarrying, mining and construction projects across the UK.
Innovation and technology are shaping the future of the mineral extractives industry, and EPC will showcase this through hands-on activities including a drone display with operational footage, alongside examples of blasting equipment used in real-world applications.
“At EPC-UK, we recognise that the future of our industry depends on inspiring the next generation to understand the vital role that the mineral extractives industry plays in everyday society. Supporting Minerals Matter at the Big Bang Fair provides a great opportunity and offers a platform for EPC-UK to showcase the part that we play and to engage with young people with Innovative and creative minds which we hope will spark curiosity, challenge perceptions, and encourage more young people to enter careers within our industry and evolving sector”
James Morgan, Commercial Executive
EPC-UK’s work focuses on integrating digital tools, engineering expertise, and sustainable practices to optimise performance across the mining and quarrying process. Their involvement in The Big Bang Fair reflects a strong commitment to developing future talent and promoting awareness of the sector’s vital role in everyday life.
Key Messages to Students from Employers
-
The minerals and construction industries are essential to everyday life
If you can’t grow it, it needs to be mined. The minerals and mining sector is fundamental in society – from infrastructure and housing to energy and materials that underpin modern living.
-
The industry offers diverse, rewarding careers for everyone
The sector provides a wide range of accessible career pathways, from apprenticeships to professional roles, with long-term progression and opportunities across engineering, technology, sustainability, and operations.
-
Inspiring young people is critical to the future of the sector
Early engagement is key to addressing skills gaps, challenging perceptions, and building a sustainable workforce, ensuring the industry continues to support modern life and future development.
Inspiring the Next Generation
In addition to partner exhibits, Minerals Matter will also provide:
- Interactive demonstrations and hands-on learning experiences
- A student competition with the chance to win a LEGO geode set
- Contributions from volunteers across the wider industry, including academic partners such as the University of Derby
- A teacher pack to provide information about the sector and signpost to useful links to find out more (pack kindly sponsored by the Mining Association of the United Kingdom)
Ready, Set, Go!
With less than 2 months to go, Minerals Matter looks forward to welcoming students, educators, and visitors to its stand at The Big Bang Fair 2026.
Our strong belief is that by working together at The Big Bang Fair, organisations across the minerals and construction sector are presenting a unified, stronger message – showcasing the industry’s impact and collectively engaging the next generation more effectively.
Thank you to Tarmac, British Gypsum, EPC-UK and the Mining Association of the United Kingdom for supporting this initiative.
Find out more about each company:
British Gypsum:
https://www.facebook.com/britishgypsumsaintgobain/
https://www.instagram.com/britishgypsum/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/british-gypsum
EPC-UK
Tarmac
https://tarmaccareers.com/early-careers/
https://tarmaccareers.com/early-careers/register-your-interest-2027/
https://uk.linkedin.com/company/-tarmac