A diverse workforce is becoming increasingly important to the future of British manufacturing, according to Walsall-based Regent Engineering, which is highlighting the contribution that people from different backgrounds, generations and disciplines make to its operations.
Managing Director Stuart Whitehouse believes that combining established engineering experience with new ideas, technical skills and different perspectives will be central to developing the UK’s manufacturing capabilities and securing the industry’s next generation of talent.
For Regent Engineering, which has built its reputation through more than eight decades of Black Country manufacturing, this approach is reflected in a workforce spanning production, engineering design, administration and sales, where employees bring different experiences and expertise to the business.
“Manufacturing depends on people with a wide range of skills, and one of the strengths of our business is having a team that brings together different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives,” said Stuart Whitehouse, Managing Director of Regent Engineering.
“We have people working directly in manufacturing on the shop floor, contributing their technical expertise in our design office and supporting customers through our administration and sales operations. Everyone has an important part to play, and bringing those different skills together helps us deliver the quality and service our customers expect.”
Broadening the talent pool for British manufacturing
With manufacturers continuing to invest in new technologies, production capabilities and skills development, Whitehouse believes attracting people from a wider range of backgrounds will help businesses meet changing industry requirements.
One area where significant opportunities remain is increasing the participation of women in engineering and manufacturing.
Research from EngineeringUK shows women represent around 17% of the engineering and technology workforce, compared with 56% across other occupations.
The research also highlights the importance of encouraging girls into technical careers at an earlier stage. While girls account for around half of mathematics and physics GCSE students, they represent approximately 24% of A-level physics students and 20% of engineering and technology apprenticeship starts, according to the organisation’s published findings.
Whitehouse believes manufacturers can help broaden participation by demonstrating the variety of careers available within modern engineering businesses and providing opportunities for people to experience the industry first-hand.
“There’s a tremendous range of opportunities in manufacturing, and I think businesses like ours have a responsibility to show people what those careers involve.
“That could mean working with machinery and production processes on the factory floor, developing technical drawings and engineering solutions in our design office, or building customer relationships through sales and administration.
“We want to encourage more people to consider manufacturing, particularly young people and women who may be exploring their career options. There’s enormous scope to develop new skills, take on responsibility and build rewarding, long-term careers.”
Different skills and experiences strengthen manufacturing
At Regent Engineering, the contribution of a diverse workforce can be seen across the company’s manufacturing and commercial operations, reflecting the breadth of expertise required to run a modern engineering business.
The company’s production activities encompass metal pressings, fabrication and welding, alongside the design and manufacture of engineered components and products for industrial customers.
Experienced manufacturing employees bring valuable practical knowledge of production processes, materials and quality requirements, while colleagues working in design, administration and sales contribute technical, organisational and commercial expertise.
Women are represented across Regent’s shop floor, design office and administrative and sales functions, contributing directly to the company’s manufacturing activities, engineering development and customer relationships.
Whitehouse believes recognising the importance of every department, and encouraging employees to share their knowledge and experience, helps create a productive working environment.
“Good manufacturing relies on people working together. Our production teams understand the practical requirements of making components, our design office brings engineering expertise, and our commercial and administrative colleagues help ensure customers receive the service and support they need.”
“Having people with different experiences and approaches is valuable because they each bring something to the business. We recognise the contribution made by women across Regent, alongside the knowledge and commitment of colleagues throughout the company.”
Whitehouse also believes the wider industry has an opportunity to strengthen its future workforce through closer relationships with schools, colleges and training providers.
“Seeing people from different backgrounds succeeding in engineering and manufacturing can have a real influence on career choices, particularly among younger generations. Manufacturers can build on this by offering workplace visits, practical experience and opportunities to meet the people already working in the industry.”
“It’s equally important to support the development of existing employees, helping them build their skills and progress professionally as businesses evolve.”
A stronger workforce for the next generation
Established in Walsall, Regent Engineering has developed its manufacturing capabilities across metal pressings, fabrication, welding and engineered product development, supporting customers across a range of industrial markets.
The company also manufactures FloorStak®, its patented modular floor support and levelling system, demonstrating how established manufacturing expertise can support product innovation and the development of new markets.
Whitehouse believes the next generation of British manufacturers will benefit from combining the knowledge of experienced employees with the enthusiasm, technical abilities and perspectives of people entering the industry.
“Regent has a long manufacturing heritage, and the people who contribute to our business are central to its continued success. We’re proud of the diversity of skills and experience within our workforce, including the women working across our factory, design office and commercial departments.
“As an industry, we have a real opportunity to attract talented people from every background and encourage them to see manufacturing as a career with a future. By promoting the achievements of people already working in the sector and creating opportunities for the next generation, we can help develop the skilled, diverse workforce that British manufacturing needs to grow.”
As the UK manufacturing sector looks to strengthen domestic production capacity and develop the skills required for future growth, Regent Engineering believes attracting talent from across society, while continuing to invest in its existing workforce, will be an important part of building a competitive, resilient and innovative industrial base.
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