Hundreds of companies across the UK threw open their doors yesterday (Thursday 25 September) to mark National Manufacturing Day, giving schools, colleges and career changers the chance to discover the opportunities on offer in one of the country’s most diverse and innovative sectors.
The nationwide celebration saw visitors take part in hands-on sessions, meet apprentices and employees, and gain an insight into cutting-edge advanced manufacturing. Roles highlighted ranged from research and development to logistics, design, production and marketing.
Manufacturing spans industries such as aerospace, engineering, pharmaceuticals, food and drink, defence, automotive and renewable technologies. It remains one of the UK’s highest-paying sectors, offering training and career development at every level.
Stephen Phipson CBE, Chief Executive of Make UK, said the annual event had become a vital showcase for the industry: “National Manufacturing Day is growing every year and is where the diverse sector comes together to celebrate British innovation and showcase the careers on offer to people of all ages across the whole of the country.
“Our companies are at the forefront of technology development and global design, and we hope this fourth National Manufacturing Day will encourage people who have never thought of manufacturing as their future to come along to see what it is really like.”
Chris McDonald MP, Minister for Industry, also praised the contribution of manufacturing to the UK economy: “As a former steelworker, I share the pride in making things that defines our manufacturing communities. Manufacturing offers high skilled jobs, pays higher wages, accounts for the majority of innovation spend and punches above its weight in exports.”
With the government’s new Modern Industrial Strategy placing manufacturing at its core, organisers hope the event will inspire the next generation of workers to pursue careers in a sector central to Britain’s economic growth.
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