Product makers join forces to inspire young for Bradford Manufacturing Weeks 2020

Makers of products from textiles to automotive components have joined forces for Bradford Manufacturing Weeks 2020 to provide career insight to hundreds of young people across the city.

The digital event, which is led by West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, sees firms providing behind-the-scenes tours, advice and guidance to inspire young people.

The virtual launch this week featured global manufacturer Acorn Stairlift’s Steeton headquarters and an introduction to key members of its 350-strong team who help produce 60,000 stairlifts each year.

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Speaking of the “critical” nature of the event, Shirley Congdon said the continuation of Bradford Manufacturing Weeks will support Bradford’s post-Covid-19 economic recovery and reinforce the emphasis on innovation and skills as a key growth area for the wider Leeds City Region.

The launch of Bradford Manufacturing Weeks 2020, held at Acorn Stairlifts, Steeton. Picture: Lorne Campbell / GuzelianThe launch of Bradford Manufacturing Weeks 2020, held at Acorn Stairlifts, Steeton. Picture: Lorne Campbell / Guzelian
The launch of Bradford Manufacturing Weeks 2020, held at Acorn Stairlifts, Steeton. Picture: Lorne Campbell / Guzelian

She said: “Bradford is critical to the North’s recovery and while we all know manufacturing is important to our economic future, the significance around creating an army of value-led, problem solving future manufacturing ambassadors must not be under-estimated. Bradford Manufacturing Weeks uses local manufacturers to inspire goal-setting and empowerment around issues such as ethical manufacturing and will make our district fit for the future, ensuring the next generation can and will address world problems with Bradford-born solutions.”

Since 2018, Bradford Manufacturing Weeks has introduced students to a career in manufacturing through onsite and in-person employment experiences. Due to Covid-19 the two-week initiative from October 5-16 is entirely online with more than 40 manufacturer events spread across 10 days.

Nick Garthwaite, chairman of West and North Yorkshire Chamber of , said: “Because of Covid-19, there is much talk of agility, innovation and business continuation and we are proud and privileged to be part of a manufacturing business community which has adapted to continued working and is united wanting to ensure our young people are supported in their career journey.”

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The event is sponsored by Barclays with support from career specialists Aspire-igen and funding from E3 Recruitment, Naylor Wintersgill, Gordons LLP and Bradford Council.

For further details and the full timetable log on to www.bradfordmanufacturingweeks.co.uk

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