Embedding cross-sector capabilities

NCC early career engineers designed and manufactured an optimised paracanoe seat for Paralympic champion Emma Wiggs MBE, helping her win gold at Paris 2024.

Using digital tools, including embedded sensor technology, the team reduced material in low-stress areas and increased support where needed. The new seat is lighter, five-times stiffer and enhances power transfer from Emma’s paddle strokes to the boat, boosting speed over the 200m course and enabling her to win gold in 58.88 seconds at the 2024 Paralympic Games.

While focused on sports, the capability to monitor structural health of the paracanoe seat in future Games has broader applications to deliver impact for the UK, be it smarter, more sustainable wind turbines or hydrogen storage solutions.

Read more case studies from HVM Catapult in our 2025 annual report.