Bridging the skills gap to secure Britain’s industrial future
Britain’s manufacturing sector faces a critical skills shortage, threatening its ability to apply emerging technologies. Make UK’s Industrial Strategy Skills Commission calls for a Skills Covenant to secure funding, strengthen industry-education ties, and equip workers with practical expertise in automation, AI, and engineering—ensuring the UK remains competitive in advanced manufacturing. H&P reports
Dispelling the myths about degree apprenticeships in the engineering industry
Finding the right talent in a tight employment market can be difficult. In fact, the OECD Skills for Jobs database indicates that 26% of the UK workforce is underqualified for their occupation. In comparison, the average OECD country sits at 18%. As such, it’s no surprise that the UK engineering industry is struggling to source the skills it needs.
adi Group appoints new CFO
Multidisciplinary engineering firm adi Group has appointed Alex Rudzinski as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO).
Dave Pound to lead steering systems manufacturer
Coventry-based steering systems manufacturer Pailton Engineering has appointed Dave Pound as its new Managing Director. With extensive experience in tier-one automotive supply, Dave is set to drive the family-run business forward.
Michael Kaye becomes General Manager of the Combustion Engineering Association
Michael Kaye has been appointed the new General Manager at The Combustion Engineering Association (CEA). With a strong background in mechanical and design engineering, coupled with years of industry leadership, Michael brings both expertise and a fresh perspective to this long-standing trade association and educational charity.
How cobots are helping manufacturers overcome the workforce challenge
Tom Cash, director at automation parts supplier Foxmere, explains how cobots are helping manufacturers in more ways than you might think
Keeping production safe and food supply secure
Industrial processes involving dry foodstuffs or animal feed can quickly create an explosive atmosphere due to airborne dust particles. Dust explosions pose significant risks to worker safety, equipment integrity, and production continuity. As the industry faces growing challenges in ensuring food security, robust explosion protection measures are essential to maintaining safe and uninterrupted operations
Beginners guide to MRO stores outsourcing launched
ERIKS, a leading specialised industrial service provider, has launched The Beginner’s Guide to MRO Stores Outsourcing. The free guide is designed to help manufacturers that are considering taking their first steps into outsourcing the management of their MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Operations) stores in 2025. The guide offers practical advice, based on real experience, to address common concerns and demonstrates how by outsourcing it is possible to improve operational efficiency, accountability, and supply chain control.
Royal Academy of Engineering President John Lazar knighted
Dr John Lazar CBE FREng, President of the Royal Academy of Engineering, has received a Knighthood in His Majesty The King’s New Year Honours List for services to engineering and technology.
Speeding up offshore pump delivery for critical projects
A leading pump manufacturer has successfully reduced delivery times by nearly 25% for seawater lift and water injection pumps used in offshore platforms. Streamlined processes and efficient coordination have enabled faster project completion, helping to meet tight deadlines and secure important contracts for two manufacturing sites. H&P reports
New procurement apprentice for Polyhose UK
Fluid conveyance supplier Polyhose UK is delighted to welcome Commercial Procurement & Supply Apprentice Serge Roa to its expanding team.
Hendrik Veder Group UK strengthens team
To support its 2025 aims, Hendrik Veder Group UK has appointed two key positions in strategic locations across the UK.
Early warning signs of conveyor belt bearing problems
Conveyor belt roller bearings are essential for maintaining industrial operations. Their failure can lead to significant disruptions, but early detection methods, such as acoustic imaging, offer a way to identify issues before they escalate. This approach helps reduce downtime, improve efficiency, and ensure the reliability of critical systems. PWE reports
Advancing mobile equipment with digital and sustainable solutions
The mobile equipment sector in hydraulics and pneumatics is evolving with the adoption of digital technologies and sustainable practices. IoT systems are improving data monitoring and diagnostics, while hybrid solutions and energy-efficient approaches are supporting environmental goals. Customisation is also increasingly important to meet the diverse needs of industries like agriculture and construction. H&P reports
Finning kicks-off 2025 apprentice search
Finning says it is playing its part in tackling the engineering skills shortage by kicking off its search for 2025 apprentices, aiming to grow the number of new recruits over the next two years.
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SMART Manufacturing & Engineering Week
04 - 05 June, 2025
NEC, Birmingham UK -
PPMA 2025
23 September, 2025, 9:30 - 25 September, 2025, 16:00
NEC, Birmingham UK -
Advanced Engineering Show 2025
29 October, 2025, 9:00 - 30 October, 2025, 16:00
NEC, Birmingham UK
