Smart Manufacturing Week offers more than just a glimpse of the latest technologies and trends. It plays a key role in shaping the future of the sector, with a focus on addressing the industry’s ongoing skills gap and inspiring the next generation of engineers and manufacturers.
Central to this mission is the Manufacturers and Engineers of the Future programme, sponsored by FANUC, which returns in 2025 with an expanded focus on young talent.
For 2025, the initiative has broadened its reach to include school-age students, alongside apprentices and those already pursuing further education, opening the door even earlier to the world of manufacturing and engineering. Throughout the programme, students will engage with live demonstrations, attend inspiring speaker sessions, and participate in hands-on workshops designed to showcase the technologies that are shaping the industry’s future.
The programme’s interactive elements, including challenges such as the Coventry University Hydrogen Power Workshop and the WorldSkills UK Industrial Robotics Competition, offer students the chance to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, enhancing their practical learning experience. These activities, alongside career-focused showcases and mentoring opportunities, aim to ignite long-term interest in manufacturing-related careers by providing valuable insight into the people, skills, innovation, and opportunities that are driving the sector forward.
Shining a light on career pathways, the programme will include contributions from Lisi Aerospace, who will highlight opportunities within the manufacturing sector. A live demonstration by the NiftyLift Apprentice Automation Challenge winners will showcase emerging talent in action, while attendees will also have the chance to meet current apprentices and hear first-hand about their experiences. For graduate-level students, key exhibitors will provide information on career opportunities, graduate schemes, and job vacancies.
Manufacturers and Engineers of the Future takes place from 12-4pm on the 5th of June as part of Smart Manufacturing Week. For more information click here.
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