Manufacturing & Processing

Despite a national decline in manufacturing in recent years, employment prospects in this sector are now improving. According to research in September 2007 by the EEF, the organisation representing manufacturers throughout the UK, the UK's manufacturing industry is at its strongest for 10 years, with both export and domestic trade improving over recent months and the highest output and order balances since the first quarter of 1995. In addition, there was a significant increase in investment intentions and a further rise in the number of companies recruiting or planning to do so.

This is particularly welcome news for our region. Yorkshire and Humber is one of the UK's prime locations for manufacturing investment, and the industry accounts for one fifth of the regional economy. While in the past changes in the industry have hit the region's economy hard manufacturing is now one of its key sectors. According to the EEF data, a focus on high-value products is a key driver for success in the manufacturing industry, something which our region can benefit from. In recent years, Yorkshire and Humber has developed a reputation as a leader in high-precision engineering, and as a result of its focus on manufacturing innovation, the sector is predicted to have grown by 20 per cent in 2016 in the region.

Key manufacturing initiatives to help drive forward this growth include:

The Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP)

Located on the Rotherham Sheffield border, this is a world-class manufacturing technology site providing advanced manufacturing technology solutions. It is home to internationally renowned research organisations and focuses on material and technologies typically used in precision industries such as aerospace, automotive, medical devices, sport, environmental and energy, oil and gas, defence and construction.

The Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC)

a £multi-million partnership between the University of Sheffield and Boeing which builds on the shared scientific excellence, expertise and technological innovation of the world's leading aerospace company and the world-class research within the University's Faculty of Engineering.

The job market for graduates in manufacturing in our region is therefore looking healthier than at any time over the last decade. Graduates with specialist skills in engineering and design will be particularly sought after.

Yorkshire & Humber Manufacturing Advisory Service

Provides advice, information and 'hands-on' specialist help for the region's manufacturers. 

EEF Yorkshire & Humberside

The industry body for engineering and manufacturing employers.

The Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) 

The Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC)