“Why UK Manufacturing Needs a Champion”: Insights from Andrea Wilson

Andrea Wilson, Director of Hone-All Precision, is on a mission – and it’s one the entire UK manufacturing sector should be paying attention to. In a recent episode of Advanced Engineering Talks, Andrea shared her journey from joining the industry in the 1990s to becoming one of its most passionate voices today. Over the course of three decades, she has not only run a successful engineering business but tirelessly advocated for change – particularly when it comes to government support and strategic planning for manufacturing.

Amazing Apprenticeships

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.

WISE – Women into Science and Engineering

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

#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.

 

The #WECAN Network

#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.

 

EASYFAIRS ACQUIRES UK METALS EXPO

This move seamlessly complements Europe’s largest network of powerhouse industrial events, which boasts 30+ manufacturing and industrial processing exhibitions and earlier this year saw Southern Manufacturing & Electronics added to Easyfairs’ distinguished portfolio.

The Right Track Consultancy LTD

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.

2024 Post Show Review

On October 30 and 31, 2024, over 9,800 engineering and manufacturing professionals flocked to the NEC, Birmingham, to attend the 15th edition of Advanced Engineering. Across the two days, visitors witnessed the very latest that the industry had to offer, with over 400 exhibitors showcasing their innovations.

A round up from Advanced Engineering 2023

The UK’s largest annual gathering of engineering and manufacturing professionals, Advanced Engineering, opened its doors once again on November 1 and 2, 2023 at the NEC, Birmingham. Across the two days, 8,943 attendees witnessed the latest innovations that the UK has to offer at Advanced Engineering, making it an extremely busy and energetic event.