West Yorkshire Manufacturing Services launches Young Manufacturers Network

Building on a drive to bridge the manufacturing skills gap, West Yorkshire Manufacturing Services (WYMS) has announced the launch of a Young Manufacturers Network.

The network is designed to connect, develop, and inspire the next generation of engineering and manufacturing professionals in the region.

It will encourage collaboration, innovation and fresh thinking from people at the early stages of their careers and build connections across companies to strengthen the wider manufacturing community. Fostering professional growth through learning, mentoring and shared experience, the network also aims to inspire members by celebrating successes and promoting pride in modern manufacturing.

With rapid changes in automation, digitalisation, sustainability and global competition reshaping the sector, WYMS recognises that investment in people is as critical as investment in technology. Strengthening skills and nurturing new talent is essential to narrowing the growing skills gap across the manufacturing sector, ensuring businesses can keep pace with the demands of a rapidly evolving industry.

Freya Taylor, marketing and communications manager at WYMS, says: “The Young Manufacturers Network is about investing in the people who will carry our industry forward.

“By giving them a voice, a network, and the tools to grow and develop in their careers, we are not only supporting their personal development, we are also strengthening the future of the industry itself.”

The network will launch on the 29th January with a networking lunch – a casual event that includes round-table discussions, networking, and live feedback on what attendees hope to achieve from the network. An opportunity for official registration to the network will become available at the event.

WYMS is seeking young manufacturing professionals in engineering, operations, design, or management roles who are eager to learn, collaborate, and contribute ideas. They are also encouraging company leaders in the region to support participation and engagement from their teams.

For more information or to express interest in joining the Young Manufacturers Network, please get in touch.