For many young people, a career in manufacturing has huge appeal – but often they lack the contacts or opportunities to take their dreams forwards. The Skills Show, which takes place at the NEC in Birmingham from 14-16 November 2013, is the UK’s largest skills and careers event, and manufacturing is set to make a big impact on the 75,000 visitors expected to attend.
The Skills Show provides young people with the chance to discover more about a variety of industries, ranging from manufacturing to construction, make up and forensic science. One of the event’s most popular activities is a series of “Have a Go” opportunities, during which visitors can try a new activity such as building a model aircraft to take home. At The Skills Show in 2012, manufacturing proved particularly popular, with thousands of young people interacting with businesses like BAE Systems, a global defence, aerospace and security company employing around 93,500 people worldwide, which passed on information about career opportunities and job prospects.
In addition to the benefits for those considering entry into the industry, The Skills Show offers businesses a great opportunity to talk directly to young people about the skills they need to succeed in pursuing a manufacturing based career path. Industry leaders including BAE Systems have already seized the chance to get involved, and there is a wealth of ways that businesses can take part, from running a Have a Go skills activity to exhibiting.
Nicky Donovan, Communications Manager at BAE Systems, said:
“We encourage all of our new recruits and apprentices to consider the huge range of of careers within manufacturing and engineering, as we believe that it is important for the industry as a whole to be seen from a much wider perspective. Our presence at The Skills Show aimed to encourage and educate young people to the wealth of possibilities available to them.”
Ross Maloney, CEO of The Skills Show, commented:
“BAE Systems is one of the biggest names in the manufacturing and engineering industry and we have been thrilled at their sustained and dedicated support of The Skills Show. Their involvement is testament that the most well-known companies and largest employers value the engagement opportunities that the event brings, and we hope to work with BAE Systems for many years to come.”
As the event’s Skills Patron Theo Paphitis explains, skills are the seed from which the future success of UK industry can flourish:
“The economy needs growth. A workforce with an improved skills base means that we are better equipped as a nation to compete internationally. But don’t forget the benefits to individuals too. People’s confidence grows as they learn skills, which makes their careers more fulfilling. This special ingredient is something that is impossible to measure but of crucial significance.”
Manufacturing industry professionals and their families can register for free entry to the event by visiting HYPERLINK “http://www.theskillsshow.com” www.theskillsshow.com. Those interested in the commercial opportunities at the event should email HYPERLINK “mailto:sponsor@theskillsshow.com” sponsor@theskillsshow.com
