Sir Frank Whittle Building

Our Engineering, Environment and Computing Building (EEC), was completed in 2012. It uses a range of sustainable technologies, including rainwater harvesting, solar thermal energy and biomass boilers. Facilities include a precision wind-tunnel, a high-performance engineering centre, a Harrier Jump Jet and three flight simulators.

Sir Frank Whittle – was born in Newcombe Road, Earlsdon, Coventry in 1907. Whilst out walking at nearby Hearsall Common an aeroplane flew overhead blowing his hat off, it was then he experienced the ‘power of flight’. At the age of 15 he was determined to become a pilot and applied to join the RAF and later became an officer. Whilst studying, he developed concepts which led to the creation of the turbo jet engine. The first engine was used in the Gloster E.28/39. In 1948 he retired from the RAF and received a knighthood. He joined BOAC as a technical advisor before working as an engineering specialist.