Today (26th September), students across Derbyshire were given exclusive behind-the-scenes access to Chesterfield-based CBE+’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility as part of National Manufacturing Day celebrations. The event showcased the exciting opportunities in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths) sectors to inspire the next generation of manufacturing talent.
CBE+ partnered with organisations such as The Work-wise Foundation, Chesterfield College, North Derbyshire District Council, and several other Derbyshire-based businesses, to create a unique experience for students interested in pursuing a career in manufacturing. The 100,000 sqft facility offered a glimpse into cutting-edge processes, as well as interactive workshops hosted by Chesterfield College, which provided insights into apprenticeships and career pathways within the industry.
Marie Cooper, CEO of CBE+ and trustee of The Work-wise Foundation, highlighted the significance of engaging students with these opportunities: "We are delighted to have opened our doors to local schools to demonstrate the value of manufacturing apprenticeships as an alternative post-school or college route. As a multi-disciplinary engineering and manufacturing business, we are committed to promoting opportunities and helping to attract new talent for businesses keen to develop their future skills pipeline."
The event was part of a wider UK initiative, with hundreds of manufacturing companies throwing open their doors to communities. From food and drink to aerospace, Britain’s manufacturing sector showcased the breadth of opportunities available. Events ranged from building your own aeroplane to exploring virtual welding, with thousands of school students expected to participate nationwide.
Stephen Phipson, CEO of Make UK, the national representative body for manufacturers, said: "National Manufacturing Day is my favourite day of the year – where the manufacturing sector comes together to celebrate all the amazing things that Britain designs and makes."
West Yorkshire’s Manufacturing Services also welcomed a thousand local students, while companies like Lush provided hands-on experiences such as creating bath bombs, giving students and visitors a tactile insight into the sector’s diverse opportunities.
Baroness Jacqui Smith, Minister for Skills, emphasised the importance of manufacturing to the UK’s future: "The UK has a long, proud history of innovation in the manufacturing sector, and we want to seize opportunities from the industries of the future. It’s fantastic to see that spirit of enterprise being showcased as part of National Manufacturing Day."
National Manufacturing Day aims to bring people closer to the UK's thriving industrial sector, highlighting the innovative engineering and well-paid career options available, especially for young people eager to step into the world of STEM.