Developing local talent for a global industry

Developing local talent for a global industry

Ahead of National Manufacturing Day on 26 September, Dr. Nik Johnson, Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, paid a visit to the North Cambridgeshire Training Centre to spotlight the wealth of opportunities available for young people in the thriving manufacturing sector.

The manufacturing sector contributed £217bn in output to the UK economy last year, supporting 2.6m jobs. Local manufacturing companies across the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough region are at the forefront of innovations like nuclear shielding, 3D metal printing, and using advanced new materials such as graphene within industrial applications.

“Manufacturing is a crucial driver of growth in our region, with businesses working on nationally significant projects,” Dr Nik Johnson emphasized during his visit to the North Cambridgeshire Training Centre.

“Young people have incredible opportunities to build careers in this fast-growing field, which offers wages well above the national average. We need to ensure young people and those considering a career change view manufacturing as an exciting career path.”

Phil Stittle, Executive Director at the Eastern Education Group highlighted how training is feeding the sector with Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. He said: “Manufacturing is a fantastic industry that offers many meaningful and well-paid career opportunities. Right now, the demand for skilled workers in this sector has never been greater. That’s why we are proud to be working with many industries in Chatteris, Peterborough and Cambridgeshire as a whole, where we support the next generation of manufacturing superstars at our state of the art facility”

Katy Davies, a Combined Authority Business Board member, highlighted the need for regional collaboration and encouraging more women into manufacturing: “Manufacturing is a cornerstone of our economy, delivering world class innovation and good growth. To unlock the full potential of future talent, we must attract individuals from all backgrounds, with a particular focus on encouraging more women.”

She added, “With opportunities in engineering, design, and leadership, it’s vital that women see manufacturing as a rewarding career path. We’re working with businesses, schools, and colleges to make this happen.”

Davies concluded, “Women have a crucial role in driving innovation in this dynamic sector. By fostering collaboration, we can ensure women are fully represented, contributing to the industry’s future success.”

Alfie, a Stainless MetalCraft apprentice studying at the North Cambridgeshire Training Centre in Chatteris, shared his experience: “Manufacturing has opened countless doors for me. I’m excited to keep learning new skills and see how far I can advance in this field. The combination of hands-on experience with MetalCraft and the support from North Cambs Training Centre is helping me build a strong foundation for a successful career.”

For more information on opportunities in this sector click here