At Cortex, we love supporting our local community and helping young people explore technology. Below is a press release detailing our recent work upgrading the 4th Guernsey Air Scouts’ hub, including a flight simulator and a refreshed computer lab.
Cortex Technologies, a Guernsey-based software and data company, has continued its support of the 4th Guernsey Air Scouts by transforming their computing facilities with a high-performance flight simulator and an upgraded computer lab.
The project began when Nick Paluch, Group Lead Volunteer of the 4th Guernsey Scouts, approached Cortex about sponsoring a flight simulator. What started with a single PC quickly grew into a two-phase initiative.
Phase one converted a storage room in the 4th’s Scout Hut on the Forest Road into a dedicated flight simulator space, utilising the remains of a real plane cockpit, a large projection display, and Microsoft Flight Simulator running on modern hardware. The result is a one-of-a-kind simulator in Guernsey. Originally built by Harrison Aviation, the simulator uses the wreckage of the Europa 912 that crashed in Sark in 2001 to deliver an immersive and flight-realistic experience.
Phase two focused on modernising the existing Don Smith computer lab. Named after the 4th Guernsey Air Scouts Founder, the room had become cluttered with outdated equipment and non-functioning computers. With hardware donations from corporate partners including Savills, Utmost (formerly Generali), and the JT Community Fund, the team at Cortex overhauled the room with 12 upgraded PCs, new monitors, networking equipment and a large TV for presentations. A clever use of 3d printing enabled the worktops to be decluttered and the refreshed space now supports flight simulation and a wide range of computer-based activities for Beavers, Cubs, and Scouts.
The project was completed in time for the Explorers to take part in JOTI – the worldwide online Jamboree – ensuring they could fully participate in the global event, and has also been used to run code clubs.
Matt Thornton, Co-Founder at Cortex, said:
“This has been a determined effort, and we’re pleased we could contribute our expertise to help bring it together. The new facilities give the 4th Air Scouts a modern, functional and enviable space that will hopefully be enjoyed by young people for years to come.”
Nick Paluch, Group Lead Volunteer of the 4th Guernsey Scouts added:
“The Air Scouts provide an incredible range of experiences for young people, and it’s fantastic to see the community come together to support them. Cortex’s contribution has been instrumental in creating a space where Scouts can explore technology, learn new skills, and be part of something inspiring.”
The 4th Guernsey Air Scouts is a volunteer-led organisation, offering activities for children aged 6 to 14, supported by parents, leaders, and community partners.
By Matt Thornton
Matt’s biggest (and most irritating) asset is his attention to detail. Whether it’s spotting bugs in code or spotting grammatical errors in other people’s work, Matt will find it and tell you about it.
Usually with an obnoxious smirk on his face.
After a long spell at University honing his analytical skills, gaining a PhD in remote sensing and computer science, Matt has spent the last 15 or so years applying them in Guernsey.
Don’t interrupt him if he’s in the zone - usual signs are air drumming, fixated stare on random object and/or swearing prolifically - unexpected behaviour may will result.