The UK's leading advanced engineering exhibition - #MINDTHEskillsGAP

   

“The skills landscape in the UK: investing in upskilling and retraining” was a breakout session at the National Manufacturing Conference 2026 that explored how manufacturers were responding to changing workforce demands by investing in upskilling and retraining existing employees. The session shared findings and recommendations from Make UK’s Industrial Strategy Skills Commission, outlining the latest policy insights, government support and funding routes. Speakers showed how companies of different sizes were approaching skills development and tech training, and highlighted scalable solutions that businesses could adopt. Short scene‑setting presentations were followed by interactive table discussions and Q&A, giving attendees both strategic context and practical ideas to take back to their organisations.

HETA is a not-for-profit charity and Group Training Association established in 1967 to bridge the gap between industry and education. Based in the Yorkshire and Humber region, HETA offers accredited, industry-recognized training from beginner to advanced levels, delivered by highly experienced staff. Their programs are tailored to meet individual and organizational needs, providing practical skills applicable in real-life industrial environments. HETA works with a wide range of companies, from sole traders to multinationals, to deliver solutions across various sectors. Their offerings include apprenticeships, adult upskill courses, and higher national qualifications.

The Faraday Centre is a privately-owned international training company based in North East England. Upholding over 30 years’ experience, they specialise in providing comprehensive high and low voltage electrical safety training either at their purpose-designed facilities or at their clients’ sites, in the UK and worldwide. Their highly experienced, multi-skilled lecturers offer an effective combination of theoretical understanding and practical hands-on learning experiences using industrial equipment to provide engineers with the knowledge and skills required to carry out specialised jobs in a safe way that’s in accordance to industry standards.

Amazing Apprenticeships is a leading organisation transforming perceptions of apprenticeships in England. One of their key initiatives is the Apprenticeship Support and Knowledge for Schools and Colleges (ASK) programme, which has supported millions of students, educators, and parents. This programme offers workshops, resources, and guidance to improve awareness of apprenticeships and technical education. Working with schools, employers, and government bodies, Amazing Apprenticeships promotes apprenticeship opportunities and creates pathways for diverse individuals, inspiring more people to pursue apprenticeships as valuable career pathways.

The Women into Science and Engineering (WISE) campaign supports women’s participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers. It inspires girls to pursue STEM, empowers women to thrive, and helps organisations build inclusive workplaces. Through initiatives like the WISE Ten Steps and Gender Equity Framework, it provides tools to improve diversity. WISE also hosts events and awards to celebrate achievements and share best practices. By driving collaboration and insights, WISE aims to create a more diverse, innovative STEM workforce.

#WECAN: Driving Change – Accessing Business Finance takes place on 24 February 2025, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Room 412, Rose Bowl, Leeds Beckett University. This session explores the barriers women entrepreneurs face when accessing finance, drawing on key research and practical insights. Part of the #WECAN Driving Change series, the event brings together experts and business leaders to discuss challenges, share experiences, and highlight strategies to improve financial accessibility for women-led enterprises.  

#WECAN (Women Empowered through Coaching and Networking) is an initiative led by Leeds Beckett University, in partnership with Edge Hill University and Social Enterprise Yorkshire and Humber (SEYH), and supported by Lloyds Bank Business & Commercial. The program aims to support, champion, and connect women in leadership roles. It offers leadership development opportunities, celebrates women’s successes, and facilitates networking among women, businesses, and supporting organizations.  

The Right Track Consultancy specialises in developing tailored apprenticeship and early career programmes for businesses and education providers. They collaborate with employers to address skills gaps, foster diversity, and create succession plans, while supporting educators in aligning curricula with industry needs. Their services include strategy development, training, mentoring, recruitment, and funding optimisation, with a focus on fostering innovation, retention, and growth.