News: Get involved in the future of manufacturing

Local manufacturers are being urged to think about how they can get involved in emerging sectors such as the civil nuclear industry.

The call comes from Robin Watson, the regional director of the Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) in Yorkshire & Humber and follows the announcement that the Rolls-Royce Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (NAMRC) will be created in Rotherham, making the region a centre of excellence in the UK's civil nuclear industry.

Robin described the announcement as fantastic news for South Yorkshire manufacturing as it is set to create hundreds of local jobs down the supply chain.

He said: "Manufacturers need to start thinking about how they can get involved in supplying to these emerging markets now, as these are the sectors that will drive significant growth and strengthen advanced manufacturing in South Yorkshire in the years to come.

"Don't be afraid to seek advice – there is a wealth of support out there to ensure Yorkshire manufacturers are supported in maximising the economic opportunities and minimising the costs of transition to a low carbon economy."

The Advanced Manufacturing Park in Rotherham was chosen as the base for the UK's new £25m NAMRC and Rolls-Royce's planned civil nuclear facility will also be developed in South Yorkshire.

As a government service, MAS plays a vital role in helping UK manufacturers to share knowledge, improve productivity and achieve success in an increasing competitive global economy.

MAS has put together a specific offering of manufacturing reviews and improvement projects to help manufacturers access new markets, develop resource efficient products and processes and put action plans in place for continuous improvement.

Robin is also promoting AEM Yorkshire, managed by NAMTEC in Rotherham, that is currently developing specialist networks that will bring companies from these emerging market sectors together and deliver a range of initiatives to exploit opportunities for the region.

The Innovation Network around the Advanced Engineering and Materials (AEM) sector in Yorkshire and Humberside is holding a launch event on the AMP this month.

MAS website
AEM Yorkshire website
Rotherham

Images: MAS Y&H