Last week, we celebrated Manufacturing Day 2023, a day in which local communities receive insight from manufacturers into the available career paths and the diverse opportunities that the sector has to offer.
As a UK manufacturing SME in the heart of Derby, we believe that it is of the utmost importance to make an appearance in the community to talk about what we do, how we do it, and how people can get involved – to bring alive the Derby spirit.
Thanks to the cooperation of some of our local schools, we had the opportunity to celebrate the day by visiting both, White Cross Nursery, and Horizons Sixth Form. It was a great experience that allowed us to connect with the potential future innovators within our community.
Our day began with White Cross Nursery school, where we were met with adorable smiles and enthusiasm. Whilst the students were young, their fascination and attention were great, with our colleagues speaking about the very basics of manufacturing, how familiar items to them are made, and providing future connections to our industry.
With a short presentation, a cartoon episode within a factory, some stickers, and sweets – their engagement was excellent, which made for a very rewarding morning. Towards the end of our gathering, we were pleased to donate some laboratory gowns and manufacturing books to hopefully interest more students in learning more about our industry.
In the afternoon, we made our way to Horizons Sixth Form, located in the City Centre of Derby. With the older students, we received great feedback and engagement during the session, allowing us to expand on the topic of manufacturing and the importance that UK manufacturing has on our Supply Chains. Our team exhibited some samples of our production line, really explaining our role in ‘Protecting Life’, and how we are developing cutting-edge technology to drive the industry forward. Students had time to interact with our products, ask questions, and find out more about our facilities.
We were very impressed by the students’ enthusiasm for manufacturing and understanding of different roles by the end of the session. It was clear that these young minds were already thinking about the future and how they could possibly get involved in the world of manufacturing.
Reflecting on our visit, it was a delightful experience for us to really see two very different age groups engage with us on this important day, who may, one day, shape the future of manufacturing.
Manufacturing Day 2023 was a resounding success, and we look forward to continuing to engage with our community in the years to come, as part of our socially responsible initiatives inside and outside the workplace.
