News: Defence Growth Deal for South Yorkshire

South Yorkshire is set for a boost through the launch of a £250m fund for Defence Growth Deals which will improve collaboration, foster innovation and create jobs in areas with untapped potential.

The Defence Industrial Strategy sets out how gonvernment spending on defence can benefit local economies, from highly skilled engineering positions to apprenticeships for young people starting their careers.

Initial analysis indicates there could be an additional demand of up to 50,000 defence jobs by 2034/35 with increases in defence spending. Defence Growth Deals will play an important role in capitalising on that skilled employment potential for communities across the UK.

South Yorkshire is one of five deals that will be backed by a total of £250m of defence spending over the next five years, underpinned by this Government’s historic increase in defence spending to 2.6% of GDP by 2027 and the ambition to hit 3% in the next Parliament.

They will forge long-term partnerships between national, devolved and local government, uniting businesses and research institutions to harness local expertise and resources in defence and the dual-use sectors. They will support the UK Armed Forces and deliver benefits for working people through the government’s Plan for Change.

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Defence Secretary, John Healey MP said: "The Defence Industrial Strategy will make defence an engine for growth across the UK, backing British jobs, British industry and British innovators.

"Defence Growth Deals offer a new partnership with UK Defence to build on industrial and innovation strengths that regions already hold. Together we aim to drive an increase in defence skills, SMEs and jobs across all four nations.

"We want to make the UK the best place in the world to start and grow a defence firm and will put Britain at the leading edge of innovation."

The new fund builds on the success of the Plan for Barrow. The deals, created in partnership with industry, local government and other regional organisations, will see investment in that area’s sub-sector specialisms, harnessing their ingenuity and mass, while also launching specific interventions that help support that defence ecosystem and the places themselves, delivering long-term and sustainable regional growth across the UK.

South Yorkshire is identified as a key hub for the development and engineering of high integrity, precision materials for the defence sector, including at MOD-owned Sheffield Forgemasters.

The region is also home to the University of Sheffield’s world-leading Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) which has multimillion pound facilities on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham. A growing defence cluster is being bolstered by BAE Systems new artillery factory in Sheffield.

The strategy set out that in South Yorkshire, "we will further leverage the region’s strengths in the research, development and engineering of high-grade components and materials critical to the next generation of maritime, land and air capabilities."

South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard, said: "South Yorkshire has always been at the forefront of our country's security. We supplied munitions in both world wars, we are the home of the Vulcan and we are helping to build the submarines of tomorrow at Forgemasters in Sheffield. Now, the government has asked us to do even more to keep this country safe as we face up to the challenges of an evermore uncertain future.

"The Defence Growth Deal we've just been awarded isn't just a critical part of the UK's new Defence Industrial Strategy, it's a vote of confidence in the work we do here in South Yorkshire, from quantum computing to material science. That deal will offer very real opportunities for companies across Barnsley, Rotherham, Sheffield and Doncaster. It will mean more secure, well-paid jobs and it will power the growth that will make us all better off."

Images: BAE Systems / Forgemaster

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News: Codename Canaveral - £2m for Rotherham investment zone project

The South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) have agreed to measures to speed up delivery in the South Yorkshire Investment Zone (IZ).

A £2m investment is in the pipeline for a "huge scale-up and reshoring" project in Rotherham.

In 2023, the region was confirmed as the UK's first investment zone, using success in advanced manufacturing to help make South Yorkshire the best place to start, scale or relocate businesses from around the world, boosting the UK economy.

Primarily focused on connecting Sheffield to Rotherham (where the research assets such as The University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) are already located), it is expected to create 8,000 new jobs and bring in £1.2bn worth of private investment by 2030.

Rothbiz highlighted the Rotherham sites that have been given IZ status where funding can be used to offer investors, developers and start-ups a combination of targeted support and financial interventions. £160m over ten years was confirmed in the 2023 Autumn Statement.

A recent SYMCA board paper showed that there has been a change from a ten-year funding programme to two annual funding pots, which has necessitated more of a focus on single year projects.

Projects so far has seen match funding drawn in at a ratio of 9:1 with £71m private investment for £8m IZ investment.

Featured projects include £3m towards £34.8m scheme to establish a flexible fund to encourage and accelerate development in the (IZ), and £375k for FerretWorks - an AMRC project to help mature and de-risk the formation of disruptive technology businesses.

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Earlier this year, Rothbiz revealed that an unnamed manufacturer was preparing to invest in a £21.3m expansion project in Rotherham, backed by a £2m grant via SYMCA.

Papers show that the project is known internally as "Canveral" with phase 1 in line for "£2m for a huge scale-up and reshoring of blade manufacturing."

SYMCA papers state: "The Advanced Blade Casting Facility (ABCF) in Rotherham is a cutting-edge supplier of high-value superalloy turbine blade castings for large civil jet engines. The investment is for tooling and precision machine tools to help to satisfy demand by uplifting blade output above the existing factory capacity."

An advisory group meets to provide guidance on investment with funding based on criteria including: strategic fit, value for money, match funding, deliverability, productivity growth, affordability, and innovation.

The SYMCA board has recently agreed to tailor their assurance procedure so smaller projects are not subjected to the same assurance process and timeline as multi-million pound schemes. It relates to funding for projects under £500k which SYMCA says would "speed up delivery whilst also having the right level of assurance."

Rothbiz reported earlier this year on SYMCA's support for support the Ultimate Battery Company's move to Rotherham with £5.2m in loans and grants. Due to issues encountered by the projects, the company has since ceased trading without the repayment of loans to the authority.

There is a £17m IZ budget for 2025-26 with all projects needed to be assured before acquiring approval.

South Yorkshire Investment Zone website

Images: Rolls-Royce

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News: Castings Technology secures significant investment

An £18m investment package is enabling Rotherham-based Castings Technology to accelerate its steep growth trajectory by moving into new premises in Sheffield, enhancing one of the most advanced foundries in the world and the only commercial titanium facility in the UK.

The company produces specialised investment castings from a range of alloys for some of the most demanding advanced manufacturing companies on the planet. The deal supported by Castle Square Corporate Finance, the same Yorkshire advisers who advised them on a MBO four years ago.

Currently based on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham, the company is moving to its own dedicated 195,000 sq ft production facility on Shepcote Lane in Sheffield.

Chairman, Kevin Parkin said “Whilst continuing to lease the building and equipment from the AMRC was the correct option in 2021 when the Management Buy-Out completed, due to our substantial growth, it is now necessary for the company to move to its own, larger premises and with new, world-class equipment”.

Castings Technology, which celebrated its centenary in 2023, underwent a management buy-out in 2021 which saw MD Richard Cook and Chairman Kevin Parkin take the reins.

Since then, the company has achieved a 225+% increase in sales and significantly increased its skilled staff to more than 100, with an order book that shows no signs of slowing.

When seeking the current investment, the board turned to Kevan Shaw, Managing Partner of Castle Square Corporate Finance, who was key to the successful MBO, who was able to secure an investment facility of £15m from Zachary Asset Holdings for Castings Technology.

Kevan said “I was thrilled to receive the call from Kevin and Richard to manage this investment deal after working with them on their MBO back in 2020/21. We had several interested parties but Zachary Asset Holdings were the best fit. This deal secures Castings Technology’s long-term future with a move to its own facility.”

Robin Haller of Zachary Asset Holdings added “We are extremely excited to partner with Castings Technology and help to support their growth in Sheffield. We believe their skills and technology are world-class and will benefit both the region and the country.”

The new site, formerly a Whitbread Brewery bottling plant, is undergoing a multimillion-pound landlord-funded refurbishment to enable Castings Technology to install its new equipment.

Much equipment is already on order, due to long lead times, such as a new Vacuum Arc Remelting Furnace and Heat Treatment Furnace costing over £6.5m and £1.5m respectively.

Castings Technology has its own Metrology, X-Ray, NDT, and Metallurgical Laboratory on site which complement its world leading processes.

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Richard Cook, MD added “We have developed a strong growth strategy, and we will continue to collaborate with our clients and other institutions to help us improve operational efficiencies. The move delivers a sound platform from which Castings Technology can offer continued supply chain resilience to customers’ future and current programmes.”

Castings Technology has had to find new ways of recruiting the best talent and become an employer of choice in the region. It has a sustainable, diverse, and committed workforce and is dedicated to increasing apprenticeship numbers over the coming years.

It is partnering with local schools and the UTC in Sheffield, providing work experience placements and encouraging more interest in manufacturing to develop engineering apprenticeships. It is also a committed partner of the Better Learners, Better Workers scheme run, in conjunction with The Company of Cutlers in Hallamshire, by Sarah Ward, Managing Director of Ambition Unlimited.

Wake Smith Solicitors’ Rebecca Robinson, Director and Head of Corporate, provided legal advice to the management team including dealing with due diligence information requests and negotiating the investment documentation, facilities agreement and security documentation. Mark Cooper of BHP advised on tax matters.

Rebecca Robinson said “We are proud to have supported Castings Technology through this significant funding development. The company has outgrown its facilities and this investment allows it to move forward, and further its potential to become one of the largest Titanium foundries in the world.”

The British Cast Iron Research Association was formed in 1923 and the British Steel Casting Research Association was formed in 1953. These two membership organisations merged in 1996 to become Castings Technology International Ltd.

In 2006, Castings Technology relocated the bulk of its facilities to the AMP after securing EU funding to construct and equip a 54,000 sq ft workshop.

In 2013 ownership of these facilities was transferred to the University of Sheffield where funding was secured to expand the facility to 13,000 sq ft and to house Europe’s largest titanium melting facility.

The new facility is expected to be operational in the second half of 2026.

Castings Technology website

Images: Castings Technology

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News: Former Nuclear AMRC staff move over to AMRC

A new team made up of former staff at the Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (Nuclear AMRC) has been created at the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC).

Multimillion pound Rotherham facilities have been retained.

Rothbiz reported last year on Nuclear AMRC staff being told of proposed redundancies with only core research & development activities to be retained by the organisation, also part of the University of Sheffield.

With state of the art facilities on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham, the £25m Nuclear AMRC is a joint initiative with industry, The University of Sheffield and The University of Manchester's Dalton Nuclear Institute, and is designed to help build and enhance the UK's civil nuclear new build industry.

Based at the AMRC's cluster of research and innovation centres in Rotherham and Sheffield, the new group enhances the AMRC's existing nuclear sector capability and supports its nationally important role in de-risking investment in new technologies that can accelerate and drive manufacturing innovation into the sector.

The group of talented engineers and researchers bring decades of experience with them and build on the research and innovation of the former Nuclear AMRC at its Rotherham facility, which was retained by the University along with more than £35m of production-scale manufacturing equipment to ensure R&D project delivery for the sector continues.

42 members of staff formally transferred into the AMRC to create the new nuclear manufacturing group, following a consultation. The Nuclear AMRC employed over 100 staff.

The team has already had good success in securing new work of scale in recent months in support of the nuclear sector, and is building on existing and ongoing collaborations with the likes of the UK Atomic Energy Authority, Sandvik, Cavendish, Nuclear Transport Solutions, EPRI and Deep Isolation.

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The new group is the eighth at the AMRC, which is part of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult national network or research centres. It adds to the University of Sheffield and AMRC's existing and expanding portfolio of nuclear-related activity, which includes the AMRC's partnership and project work with Rolls-Royce SMR to manufacture and test prototype modules to be assembled into small modular reactors.

Ben Morgan, interim chief executive officer at the AMRC, said: "Nuclear energy is a vital component of the pathway to net zero and effectively harnessed, it can bring high value growth across many parts of the UK. This group will significantly bolster our offering to the sector and help industry to deliver through research and innovation.

"The AMRC and the wider University has a strong track record of providing R&D inputs into the nuclear energy sector on a range of capabilities from new build, to waste, to decommissioning.

"We have been working with Rolls-Royce SMR to de-risk its manufacturing approach which could have a significant UK economic impact as this world-leading technology comes on stream, hopefully in the coming months.

"Our priority looking ahead will be to ensure that the investment in these technologies delivers significant economic benefit for the UK, and in particular regions across the UK."

AMRC website

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News: AMRC Training Centre director departs

After a successful long-run of delivering excellence in engineering apprenticeships, Nikki Jones is stepping down as director of the University of Sheffield AMRC Training Centre.

With state-of-the-art facilities on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham, the centre has trained thousands of apprentices, helping to create the manufacturing workforce of the future.

Nikki's journey with the AMRC Training Centre began in July 2016 when she joined as head of training, bringing extensive experience from her previous role as assistant vice-principal at Barnsley College.

Advancing to the role of director in 2018, she steered the team in its mission to provide crucial skills training, bridge the skills gap in industry and positively impact the region.

Nikki’s leadership was instrumental to the centre’s progress and achievements, including a 'Good' Ofsted rating and launch of pioneering apprenticeship programmes in composites and nuclear, among other successes.

Her tenure also saw the centre celebrate a decade of delivering apprenticeships and skills, be part of the South Yorkshire Institute of technology (SYIoT) and showcase Sheffield’s manufacturing legacy at the Lord Mayor’s Show 2024.

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The AMRC Training Centre underwent substantial expansion under Nikki’s guidance, further enhancing the regional impact through skills provision.

Employer partnerships have grown, including those with E.ON and Warburtons – with a 9.5% increase in businesses taking on AMRC Training Centre apprentices in 2022/23 compared to pre-pandemic figures.

Apprentice intake numbers have risen from 150 in 2020/21 to 270 in 2024/25– with female representation increasing from 7% to 12% in the last five years.

Over the past decade, the Gross Value Added (GVA) of advanced manufacturing in the Yorkshire and The Humber region has surged by 48% compared to 27% in England, underscoring the sector's regional importance and highlighting the AMRC Training Centre's pivotal role in workforce development.

Reflecting on her nearly nine years at the AMRC Training Centre, Nikki said: “It has been a genuine privilege and pleasure to have been part of this extraordinary organisation.

“Looking back, the people are what made this journey so memorable– our dedicated staff, ambitious apprentices, and incredible employer partners. The strength of these relationships has been the cornerstone of our collective success, and I’m immensely proud of what this brilliant team has achieved in building a nationally recognised centre for skills training for the industry.

“Knowing that the AMRC Training Centre is in capable hands, I look forward to watching it continue its vital work, supporting the manufacturing sector and nurturing talent for many years to come. While this move marks a new chapter for me, I will always cherish my years at the training centre as some of the best of my career, and I will remain its biggest supporter from afar.”

The AMRC Training Centre’s impact under Nikki’s leadership is evident in apprentices’ achievements ranging from helping revive a McLaren Racing icon to saving significant costs for employer, highlighting the centre's far-reaching influence.

Following Nikki's departure, the University is exploring future leadership options for the AMRC Training Centre. In the interim, Louise Cowling will lead on education matters and Rebecca Blackburn will lead on external engagement and employer relations, reporting to Mary Vincent, vice-president for education.

AMRC Training Centre website

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News: FerretWorks - a South Yorkshire take on fostering innovation

A University of Sheffield project which aims to scale-up disruptive businesses in the region is being backed by the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA).

The project has been given the name FerretWorks as a Yorkshire slant on SkunkWorks, the secret R&D team at Lockheed Aircraft Corp that worked quickly to develop a jet fighter for the United States during World War II.

The approach from the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) was formed to incubate high risk/high reward ideas away from the typical business KPIs and constraints, creating a space where it’s OK to fail, as well as putting money into the groups so they can make space for thinking.

SYMCA is now set to award £375k from its Project Feasibility Fund for FerretWorks.

A SYMCA paper explains: "The project will assist entrepreneurs by facilitating access to the resources required to help mature and de-risk the formation of disruptive technology businesses, laying the foundations for scale-ups of the future. The program aims to develop a culture of innovation in the SYMCA region that learns fast, fails fast, and de-risks the translation from concept to establishing an ecosystem of disruptive businesses."

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The project is set to develop a pipeline of IP generation and future entrepreneurs, create high-value jobs in the region, and encourage businesses to form and base themselves in the South Yorkshire Investment Zone.

The authority is also keen that the FerretWorks sub-brand will be used in marketing and promote SYMCA as "the place to develop innovative start-up businesses."

The AMRC has grown to become a world leader in manufacturing excellence, part of the national High Value Manufacturing Catapult network of research centres. With facilities in Rotherham and Sheffield it has more than 500 highly qualified researchers and engineers working on the manufacturing needs of the future, from composites to castings, additive manufacturing to machining.

The AMRC strategy was refreshed in 2023 where FerretWorks aims to facilitate ambitious steps in manufacturing research by giving engineers the freedom, space and time to create and explore new ideas, to run adjacent to the centre's themes of sustainability, digital, future platforms and supply chain resilience.

AMRC spin out companies include Productive Machines, FourJaw and AML.

AMRC website

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News: Taiwanese takeover for award winning Rotherham firm

Government approval has been granted for the acquisition of Advanced Manufacturing (Sheffield) Ltd (AML) by Walsin Lihwa Europe.

Originally a spin-out from the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) at the University of Sheffield, AML is now recognised as a market leader in delivering flexible manufacturing capability at the leading edge of machining technologies and efficiencies, with particular expertise in aerospace, defence and energy components. Blue chip clients include Rolls-Royce and Siemens Energy.

The 100-strong team at Catcliffe in Rotherham was awarded the King’s Award for Enterprise Innovation in 2024.

Walsin Europe is set gain control of the qualifying entity by acquiring 38.8% of the shareholding in AML.

Walsin Lihwa is headquartered in Taiwain and is an industrial conglomerate with operations spanning wire & cable, stainless steel, and renewable energy. With over 20 production and sales sites across Greater China, Southeast Asia, and the U.S., Walsin products are widely used across industrial, automotive, oil and gas and consumer sectors. It acquired Sheffield-based Special Melted Products Ltd through its subsidiary, Cogne Acciai Speciali S.p.A, in 2023.

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Following a detailed national security assessment, the latest deal was approved with a number of conditions. The parties must meet certain operational requirements, including restrictions on the location of AML’s precision engineering capabilities and a requirement to retain certain existing operational activity in the UK.

Issues over confidential information, intellectual property and data storage. AML must also employ a Chief Security Officer, who must oversee and ensure compliance.

The government said that the conditions were to mitigate the risks to national security relating to "the security of UK know-how and intellectual property relating to the precision engineering of gas turbine engine components, access to which could lead to an uplift in adversaries’ capabilities; and "an interruption to the continuity of supply of precision-machining capabilities to United Kingdom defence programmes."

AML's King's Award win was in the innovation category and relates to the precision manufacture of complex aerofoil geometries for jet engines. The process begins with raw aluminium alloy bars, or forgings, being inspected and measured by the manufacturer before shipping.

AML website

Images: AML

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News: AMRC Training Centre targets specific skills gaps

The University of Sheffield AMRC Training Centre has launched an enhanced apprenticeship programme, offering employers unprecedented flexibility in shaping the learning journey of their apprentices.

With state-of-the-art facilities on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham, the centre has trained over 1,700 apprentices, helping to create the manufacturing workforce of the future.

The new bespoke programme will enable businesses to customise their apprenticeships to specific needs through additional modular training options.

Employers can select modules at any point during an apprenticeship, in addition to the apprentice's core curriculum, to address skills gaps and tailor development in line with evolving business and industry demands.

These modular add-ons, crafted by industry-experienced educators, cover a wide range of in-demand skills, including introductory and intermediate CAD, welding, manual and CNC milling, manual and CNC turning, robotics and metallurgy, with additional modules continually being developed.

The add-ons can be integrated into various pathways, from level three advanced to level six degree apprenticeships, and are available immediately.

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Nikki Jones, director of the AMRC Training Centre, said: “This enhanced apprenticeship programme, built on bespoke, modular training, is a game-changer for employers looking to shape their future workforce.

“It allows them to take control of their workforce development to precisely target skill gaps, ensuring their apprentices receive the training they need to thrive.

“As part of our commitment to strengthening UK manufacturing by nurturing the next generation of engineers, we are continuously refining our apprenticeship programmes based on employer feedback to address challenges and implement the changes they want. Together, we're building the talent pool needed for the sector to grow.”

In January, the University’s apprenticeship training was rated as ‘Good’ for overall effectiveness and Ofsted recognised the institution's commitment to ensuring the content of its curriculum matches the specific needs of employers which, in many cases, extends beyond the requirements of the apprenticeship standard.

AMRC Training Centre website

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News: Holtec selects South Yorkshire for Small Modular Reactor factory

South Yorkshire is set to become the new home of US nuclear energy company, Holtec’s planned new Small Modular Reactor (SMR) factory - a £1.5bn investment that is set to create hundreds of well-paid and highly-skilled jobs.

Earlier this week, the US’ largest nuclear components exporter signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for ‘Cooperation on Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Technology’ with The University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) on a visit which took in facilities on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham.

The MoU shows Holtec's desire to service the UK domestic market with R&D, jobs and a fully integrated supply chain. Holtec’s SMR factory targets 70% of materials, components, and services are procured within the UK, and particularly South Yorkshire, meaning significant supply chain opportunities.

After a process that involved 13 locations which were shortlisted down to four around the UK, Holtec Britain – who have been working at Sizewell B for over 15 years and in the UK for nearly 30 years – chose South Yorkshire as the location for its new SMR factory to serve the UK, Europe and the Middle East.

Holtec’s decision comes after Rolls-Royce SMR also chose South Yorkshire to become the home of its new multi-million pound facility earlier this year. Rolls-Royce SMR will manufacture and test prototype modules for SMRs in South Yorkshire further strengthening the region’s clean tech cluster.

Oliver Coppard, South Yorkshire’s Mayor, said: “In South Yorkshire, we’re building on hundreds of years of innovation and engineering heritage to create world leading facilities, skills and expertise today; assets that will power the clean energy transition in the UK and beyond. We are right at the cutting edge of the new nuclear, hydrogen and sustainable aviation sectors, and proud to be home to the largest clean tech sector in the UK.

"That’s why Holtec have chosen South Yorkshire as the home of their £1.5bn manufacturing facility, because they recognise we are the new home of the emerging clean energy sector in this country. Their decision to invest in South Yorkshire has the potential to support hundreds of high-paying jobs, while their SMR Learning Academy will help train the next generation of nuclear engineers and experts.

"I promised to deliver a clean energy transformation and this decision is just more evidence of the huge and increasingly rapid progress we’re making.”

Gareth Thomas, Director at Holtec Britain, added: “South Yorkshire overcame stiff competition from other areas of the UK to be our preferred location for our advanced SMR factory.

“Holtec Britain was impressed by the resounding interest in our new SMR factory across the UK and the strong support received by the local authorities during our engagements. However, after a rigorous process, South Yorkshire was finally selected as our preferred location.

"In addition to the technical, supply chain, training, and logistics criteria for the formal evaluation, we were also impressed by the history and pride of the people we met during our visit to South Yorkshire, which demonstrated the workforce really cares about the quality and reputation of their work. For Holtec, that translates to a workforce that can be trained and will remain committed to delivering the high-quality nuclear products that Holtec, and our customers, demand.

"Holtec has been part of the nuclear ecosystem in this country for many years and is absolutely committed to creating high-quality local jobs, supply chain opportunities and partnerships that will help South Yorkshire and the UK grow and prosper. Our new UK factory is central to that commitment. Holtec is working to finalise its factory business plan to support its Final Investment Decision, based on its UK and international order book.

“Holtec’s SMR-300 is a PWR reactor enabling the factory to also produce large naval reactor components to not only support the country’s energy security, but also its national security."

A location within South Yorkshire has yet to be announced. Holtec's website states that it will be a 20 Ha factory that would produce 2-4 reactors per year, valued at £1-2 billion each. Construction will generate around 3,600 jobs, and manufacturing will sustain up to 400 jobs annually.

Holtec Britain website
AMRC wesite

Images: Holtec / AMRC

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News: Manufacturing breakthrough for Magtec

Rotherham-based Magtec, a pioneer in electric vehicle drive systems, has successfully completed two industrial research projects, both matched-funded by the UK government and delivered through the Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC).

The strategic programmes focused on the production scale-up of Magtec’s class-leading traction motors and controllers with the aim of transforming manufacturing processes and product designs to achieve volumes of more than 5,000 units annually and meet rapidly growing demand for electrification of commercial vehicles.

Prior to this activity, the Templeborough firm's innovative electric drivetrain technologies were firmly established within the electric truck, bus and commercial vehicle sectors, but with their complex designs and niche-volume requirements, assembly was primarily a manual process.

In 2020, the company secured match-funding of more than £5m through the APC’s Collaborative Research & Development funding stream.

Working in a consortium, which included transport OEMs Dennis Eagle and Angel Trains, the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) and the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC), Magtec was able to embark on a three-year project to reinvent manufacturing processes and future-proof manufacturing capacity while guaranteeing high quality and traceability.

Using advanced digital manufacturing principles, Magtec established new intellectual property that made its products easier and faster to manufacture at scale. This involved the introduction of new pilot production equipment, designed to prove-out agile automation while allowing for rapid reconfiguration, meaning all motor variants can now flow through the same production line with minimal disruption. Additionally, the project helped Magtec establish a robust UK supply chain for electrification, providing better security of supply as forecast volumes ramp up.

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In 2022, Magtec went on to secure additional APC match-funding of £2m through the Automotive Transformation Fund’s Scale-up Readiness competition. With this support, Magtec was able to reapply its acquired lean and digital manufacturing expertise to support the industrialisation of its controller systems, employing automation best practices, redesigning products and further developing UK supply-chain opportunities, to build a roadmap for volume manufacture of both motors and controllers.

Andrew Gilligan, managing director of Magtec, said: “Through the support of the APC, we are now better able to service fleets and OEMs in the UK, Europe and the United States as they transition to electric vehicles. We’ve transformed our manufacturing capabilities while maintaining the exceptional durability and performance that makes our systems ideal for demanding commercial uses.”

Matt Shillito, senior project delivery lead for the APC, added: “Magtec’s high performance electric drive train technology is now excellently positioned to seize a growth market opportunity. As demand for electric vehicles increases both for first-build and re-power applications, so does the need for versatile and effective powertrain systems like those offered by Magtec.

“Making these systems efficient and affordable is essential to enable decarbonisation of the range of commercial vehicles currently in use, while still delivering customer priorities like drivability, range and efficiency. It is exciting to see a UK company and its local supply chain partners gearing up to deliver these systems to the automotive sector at scale.”

Magtec website

Images: Magtec

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News: Mayor's plan to improve AMP connectivity

The newly re-elected Mayor of South Yorkshire, Oliver Coppard, has set out his vision to connect people across South Yorkshire to opportunities through an integrated public transport network that puts people at its centre.

One key pledge is to transform the public transport network at the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham.

Others focus on bus reform, assessing potential Supertram extensions and reopening Doncaster / Sheffield Airport.

The Mayor has set out his priorities for a transformed public transport network at the University of Sheffield AMRC Training Centre on the AMP at Waverley. Despite many communities being geographically close to the AMP and the AMRC Training Centre – a place of excellence attracting highly skilled people and providing training opportunities through apprenticeships, many local people struggle to access the area by public transport which closes them off to these opportunities.

The current level of public transport available in the area is very restricted, both in terms of areas served and the frequency and times of operation. Analysis commissioned by the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority found that fewer than 1% of people across South Yorkshire live within a 30-minute public transport journey of the AMP.

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South Yorkshire's Mayor, Oliver Coppard, said: “I refuse to accept a situation where people living across South Yorkshire aren’t able to access opportunities in South Yorkshire. There’s talent and opportunity right across our region, but it is only by connecting the two that we will unlock South Yorkshire's full potential.

“So on day one of my Mayoral term, I'm today committing to start rolling out a new South Yorkshire integrated public transport network by the end of this four year term. That’s how we’ll make sure that everyone who lives here can access work or training, see a doctor, see friends and family and - crucially - access opportunity."

Included in the Governmen's 2023 plans for Network North is a new station at Waverley. Work has been underway for a number of years through the Restoring Your Railway "Ideas Fund" for a new railway station on the Sheffield to Lincoln line at Waverley serving the new community and the AMP. It is linked to another bid for the restoration of passenger services on the Barrow Hill line between Sheffield and Chesterfield.

The Mayor's announcement said that opportunities were already being explored to expand the light rail network by using tram trains to operate between Sheffield and Stocksbridge and along the Barrow Hill Line.

The AMP and the wider Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District is a key part of the Mayoral Combined Authority's "Plan for Good Growth" and being included in the South Yorkshire Inzestment Zone gives the area a £160m envelope to catalyse local growth and investment.

SYMCA website

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News: Three Rotherham firms win King's Awards for Enterprise

Three Rotherham-based companies have been recognised for their achievements in innovation and international trade.

King’s Award for Enterprise celebrates outstanding achievement by UK businesses and is internationally recognised.

This year's recipients include Dinnington's Advanced Alloy Services Ltd, Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) based, SBD Apparel, and near neighbours, Advanced Manufacturing (Sheffield) Ltd (AML) of Catcliffe.

Originally a spin-out from the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) at the University of Sheffield, AML is now recognised as a market leader in delivering flexible manufacturing capability at the leading edge of machining technologies and efficiencies, with particular expertise in aerospace, defence and energy components.

The 100-strong team has been awarded the King’s Award for Enterprise Innovation.

The award was driven by funding from the Aerospace Technology Institute for the Automotive Excellence for Aerospace (AXIS) project around reducing production times in aerospace component manufacture. The successful implementation of the project and the development of AML’s high-rate production has resulted in AML securing long term contracts for the production of components for regional business jet engines.

The funding also resulted in eight new roles to support the a production cell built to manufacture components, consisting of six machine operators and two manufacturing engineers.

Dr Gareth Morgan, managing director at AML, said: “This is an incredible achievement for the whole AML team and a recognition of our expertise and commitment to excellence. Innovation was hard wired into our DNA from the very beginning which is why the most demanding customers on the planet, from aerospace and defence to land based gas turbines that complement the green energy/renewable sector, trust us with the manufacture of strategically critical components.”

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Advanced Alloy Services was recognised for its outstanding achievements in International Trade.

Founded in 1993 the company underwent an MBO in 2019 and now operates from a purpose built 44,000 sq ft facility in Dinnington on the former colliery site supplying high purity pure metals and fully processed and certified superalloy revert to customers all over the world.

A spokesperson for Advanced Alloy Services, said: "We are proud to support the drive towards net zero by effectively recycling and recovering secondary revert, reducing the requirements for primary metals and the associated high carbon emissions from mining and refining. We have ambitious plans to grow our international footprint and global sales, the accolade from the King’s Award will be instrumental in helping realise these aspirations."

SBD Apparel, the global market leader in strength sports apparel, clothing and accessories worldwide, has been for its outstanding achievements in International Trade.

SBD Apparel, which counts elite strength and fitness athletes across the world amongst its growing client base, as well as being synonymous with the World’s Strongest Man Competition, successfully opened a new manufacturing hub at Rotherham’s Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in 2022.

The move to new 100,000 sq ft premises was part of a desire to boost exports. The company now sells in markets including Australia, Japan, Taiwan, Singapore, Hong Kong, Germany, Spain, Italy, Norway and Iceland. Each retailer is given exclusivity to sell SBD products in their territory, receiving support with branding, website, enquiries and customer services to ensure the retailer shares in the brand’s success.

AML website
Advanced Alloy Services website
SBD Apparel website

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News: AMRC helps drive forward blueprint for production rates of SMEs electric motors

New processes have been devised and technology de-risked by the University of Sheffield AMRC to help increase electric motor production rates for the UK’s largest supplier of electric drive systems - with an ambition of transitioning from 60 to 5,000 traction motors per year.

The University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) formed part of a consortium of experts tasked by Magtec, based in Rotherham, to support the business need for new ways to reduce bottlenecks within its production processes to enable an increase in the number of electric motors it could make per year.

Based at Templeborough, Magtec is a leading designer, manufacturer and integrator of drive systems for electric commercial vehicles.

AMRC engineers with expertise in composites and integrated manufacturing supported Magtec by successfully creating factory simulations to optimise vital decisions prior to implementing changes to production and making investment decisions, helped them adopt a towpreg winding technique, reducing set-up time and increasing throughput, as well as providing ideas and advice on alternative lamination technologies it could use in the future as the business grows.

Lloyd Tinkler, senior technical fellow who led on the project for the AMRC, said: “We are thrilled to have worked with Magtec again as a follow on from a previous five-day assist programme we did with them in 2022, which looked at their factory flow and how they could save time and money.

“This extended project has enabled us to use our expertise and delve deeper into their factory workflows and processes, complementing the work other consortium members have contributed.

“We believe our work has been useful to help Magtec on its growth journey – it has been rewarding to see them move into a bigger facility, bring in new equipment and technologies off the back of our research work and recommendations, and grow from a small to a medium-sized business in just a few short years. We look forward to seeing what they do next.”

Andrew Gilligan, managing director at Magtec, said: “Global demand for EV drive systems continues to increase at rate. Magtec has been challenged by its clients to increase production significantly and this requires a fresh perspective on how we produce our EV systems, especially traction motors, in a volume environment.

“Magtec has a strong and long-standing relationship with the team at the AMRC, so we engaged them to help us on this exciting industrialisation journey. Through the evaluation of current manufacturing methods and the adoption of best in class manufacturing processes, AMRC has helped Magtec to define its industrial roadmap, as well as embed processes which have had an immediate and long lasting effect.”

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The AMRC, part of the High Value Manufacturing (HVM) Catapult, secured £350,000 of the total £5.5m project value, £2.6m of which was funded by the Advanced Propulsion Centre, which provides funding for the development of low emission transport solutions and automotive technologies – supporting the UK’s transition towards net zero product manufacturing and supply chain in the automotive sector.

Other members of the consortium included fellow HVM Catapult centre, the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC), Angel Trains and Dennis Eagle Trucks.

On supporting new composite technology and processes for Magtec, Jonathan Di Lorenzo, technical lead at the AMRC, said his team's work focused on in-situ filament winding of the carbon fibre rotor sleeve which keeps the magnets in place whilst spinning at high speed.

“We firstly developed a calculator to estimate the inward pressure the sleeve could apply with different fibre tensions, which ultimately limits the maximum operating speed. We also performed experimental trials creating rotor sleeves, using microscopy to compare these results to Magtec’s existing wet-wind process.

“In addition, we investigated the influence of process parameters on throughput and provided information to help Magtec with future production adoptions. The calculators helped predict the minimum amount of material and tension required and as part of this project we were able to set up the foundations for mechanically testing composite rings to verify performance, which can be useful tools moving forward.”

As a result of working with the AMRC, Magtec is set to adopt a new technology – moving away from its former wet-winding process and now utilising a different method called towpreg winding.

“The towpreg method starts with the material having the resin already impregnated into the fibre and provides better consistency, less set-up time and processing, and can result in a more stable product at the end,” added Jonathan. “This is instead of using the wet-winding process involving dipping dry fibre into a resin bath which can be messy and time consuming.

“It’s a small, but important part of the motor build process, but by de-risking the new capability method first has helped provide confidence in the technology and justifies costs that this method can contribute to helping them achieve the build rate they are aiming for.”

Scoping lamination technologies and factory simulation also played a part in the AMRC’s work.

Alongside the updated composite processes, Lloyd said the team pushed further, providing recommendations that could take Magtec forward in the future.

He added: “We also helped Magtec with providing recommendations around lamination technologies which could support them as they increase the volume of their production. As well as the rotator, a motor also has a stator, both made up of sheets of steel, stacked and glued together – and we recommended a better way of doing that, looking at alternative cutting and glueing methods they could use.

“It’s not something Magtec is looking to adopt at the moment, but there’s potential for the future and new ways of working for them to explore.”

Cansu Kandemir, technical fellow at the AMRC worked with Magtec to create a factory simulation, and analysis of its supply chain, using Siemens’ tecnomatix plant simulation technology, which helped the business to understand what critical materials and precautions were needed to help validate and optimise their decision processes prior to production.

“We were responsible for integrating advancements to their factory floor via a virtual simulation and provided recommendations and support to enable the business to reach its ‘Blueprint 5000’ to create 5,000 motors per year," said Cansu.

“We looked to see how everything was working and if it was coherent with the rest of the production floor and to see if bottlenecks were cleared.”

The simulation was also able to plan out how many machines would be needed to enable Magtec to reach its aimed production goal. First, the team devised a baseline model that represented what went on in the facility currently and then added in new advancements, automations and new technology.

“At the beginning we didn’t have the exact process of their new operations, so we had to make some initial assumptions and came back with pessimistic and optimistic estimations,” added Cansu. “As a result of this, we created two models to reflect this and we were able to come up with the optimum number of machines and/or workers needed and gave them a profile to follow on how to achieve the blueprint 5,000 motors per year.”

As Magtec began purchasing new equipment off the back of projections coming from the simulation, the team was able to update the simulation model accordingly to ensure the projected production rate remains on track.

Alongside the updated composite processes and factory simulation creation, Lloyd said the team pushed further, providing recommendations that could take Magtec forward in the future.

Andrew Sloan, engineering director at Magtec said: “Magtec are committed to developing and manufacturing the best EV drive systems to meet the challenging demands of commercial vehicle operation.

“The team at the AMRC and Magtec will continue to work together to eliminate the limitations in our manufacturing processes, implement new and class leading technology and enable competitive industrial growth of traction motor production in the UK”.

Magtec website
AMRC website

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News: South Yorkshire Innovation District launches business-led energy challenge

A pioneering initiative is underway as the South Yorkshire Innovation District, in collaboration with industry leaders, announces the start of a pilot ‘Innovation Challenge’ aimed at transforming manufacturing practices through the practical application of regional innovation capabilities.

This joint effort, supported by the business community, South Yorkshire Innovation District, Four Jaw Analytics, and Made Smarter, boasts a collaboration with prominent industry partners including Gripple, AESSEAL, PEP GB, Amodo and the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC).

The initiative underscores a collective commitment to foster innovation-led growth and tackle challenges faced by manufacturing SMEs in South Yorkshire. Originating from the Innovation District Business Network established in 2022, the initiative aims to drive a more prosperous regional economic outlook by facilitating practical solutions and access to new opportunities.

The Innovation Challenge targets energy optimisation and operational efficiency improvement within participating SMEs. Companies such as Arden Winch, Charles Day Steels, EE Ingleton, Footprint Tools, Maher, Steetley Corner, and Whites Bakery are set to benefit from Four Jaw's manufacturing analytics technology during a 3-month trial period. This solution, coupled with tech advice and peer mentoring, empowers businesses to enhance insights, reduce costs, and boost productivity.

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In addition to technological support, participating SMEs will receive financial support from Made Smarter, enabling them to embark on a digital transformation journey. Made Smarter will also craft bespoke digital roadmaps for each business, paving the way for future success in an increasingly digitised and competitive landscape.

Recognising the importance of mentorship in navigating these transformative changes, the South Yorkshire Innovation District has curated a mentor programme comprising seasoned industry experts. These mentors will provide invaluable guidance and support to the leadership teams of participating SMEs, ensuring they are equipped to capitalise on the opportunities presented by the innovation challenge.

Gordon Macrae, Special Projects Manager at Gripple, siad: "We are thrilled to unveil this collaborative initiative, which exemplifies the spirit of innovation and partnership in South Yorkshire. By leveraging the expertise of industry leaders and SMEs, we aim to drive meaningful change, accelerate innovation adoption, and unlock new growth opportunities."

The Innovation Challenge will run for 12 weeks, culminating in a "Demo Day" in May where SMEs and mentors will showcase their innovation journey and future business prospects.

Images: Harworth

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News: AMRC Training Centre launches new composite apprenticeship with McLaren

The University of Sheffield AMRC Training Centre in Rotherham will become the first training provider in South Yorkshire to deliver a new composites apprenticeship in a move to sustain the longevity of the capability within manufacturing by creating its workforce of the future.

Together with McLaren Racing and McLaren Automotive, the AMRC Training Centre will deliver a new advanced level composites technician apprenticeship, in addition to the metallic machining apprenticeship the centre is already delivering with McLaren. 

Alongside McLaren, Wirral-based Teledyne CML Composites, who specialise in the manufacture of composites parts and assemblies on some of the world's most advanced aircraft platforms is also supporting the new apprenticeship – with the aim that more companies will come on board in the future.

With state-of-the-art facilities on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham, the centre has trained over 1,700 apprentices since it opened ten years ago.

Nikki Jones, Director of the AMRC Training Centre, said it was a real pride point to launch the new apprenticeship, adding: “Working alongside McLaren and Composites UK, a need for such an apprenticeship was identified to help fill the national skills gap of people in composites due to an ageing workforce.

“Composites has always been a capability the AMRC has had a big focus on and as its new building is underway to deliver a new programme called Composites at Speed and Scale (COMPASS), which is likely to provide a number of jobs in the region – we are acting now to build our expertise and capacity in composites to help supply the future workforce.

“Along with employers, we’ve put a new delivery model together to meet the needs of industry and we are the only people to deliver this composite apprenticeship in the region. This is something we are very proud of and we are excited to see this course grow.”

Piers Thynne, Chief Operating Officer for the McLaren Formula 1 Team, said: “McLaren Racing has led the way in pioneering advanced composite materials in our 60-year history. From being the first team to introduce carbon fibre to the F1 car, to trialling innovative and sustainable alternatives like recycled carbon fibre on track.

“To continue to lead the way, we need the best talent at the cutting edge of composites. That's why we’re delighted to be working with our colleagues at McLaren Automotive and the AMRC Training Centre to add to our existing apprenticeship programme with this composites apprenticeship.

“We believe in creating pathways for everyone to get into motorsport, which is why our early careers pipeline is vital to delivering the continued high-performance standards we set ourselves both on and off the track.”

John Toner, Vice President and General Manager for Teledyne Aerospace and Defence Electronics UK and General Manager of Teledyne CML Composites, said: “Teledyne CML Composites are very excited to be part of the apprenticeship programme launched in partnership with the AMRC and McLaren to provide a market leading training pathway for composites manufacturing personnel.

“The composites technician apprenticeship is a key part of our young employee training strategy that will yield the next generation of highly skilled composites experts and fulfil our commitment to the development of young people and sustain Teledyne CML Composites’ continued growth ambitions.”

Trade association Composites UK, which supports companies to enable them to grow and succeed in the competitive global market, said the new composites apprenticeship at the AMRC Training Centre is a pivotal tool in helping to meet the current and future skills challenges currently being faced by the sector.

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Matt Bradney, Skills and Workforce Development Director for Composites UK, said: “Composite materials are critical in order for the UK to meet its net zero targets and composites is an exciting and growing industry for young people to be involved in. There are various entry points, a key one being the composite technician apprenticeship.

“For the apprentice, learning and earning on the job is a great way to get a head start. For the employer, the new apprenticeship model launched by the AMRC gives flexibility in the delivery of the learning aspect, making it easier to get involved with a more efficient way to develop the workforce of the future.”

The AMRC, one of seven centres in the High Value Manufacturing Catapult, is working with other catapult centres to build industry-ready technology capabilities, alongside supporting the development of future engineers.

Steve Foxley, CEO for the AMRC, added: “The AMRC Training Centre is helping the manufacturing industry by training new composite apprentices who are vitally needed for the future, while making sure the courses tie into technology areas of growing importance, such as the ones seen in catapult centres including the AMRC. This capability is key for a growing number of businesses in South Yorkshire and beyond for their productivity growth.

“It’s fantastic to see how the AMRC Training Centre continues to build on its industry-forward approach by adding another important learning capability to its ever-widening selection of subjects.”

Students who are undertaking the 36-month apprenticeship will engage in the production of composite components or products that are used in a range of applications, some of which include automotive, motorsport, aerospace, rail and renewable industries.

The first cohort for the apprenticeship started last September, which includes an all-female group based at McLaren’s headquarters in Woking, alongside two other learners at the McLaren Composites Technology Centre (MCTC) in Rotherham. Opened in 2018 on the AMP, MCTC has established itself as a world-leader in lightweight carbon fibre construction for the automotive industry and is where the McLaren carbon lightweight architecture for the McLaren Artura high-performance hybrid supercar is constructed. Three more learners are placed with Teledyne CML at its base in Bromborough on the Wirral.

AMRC Training Centre website
McLaren website

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News: Aerospace firm set to soar as it prepares to land on Rotherham's AMP

Yet another world-leading engineering firm has set out plans that would enable it to move from Sheffield to Rotherham, build upon their success, and grow.

Under the proposals, Technicut, the UK’s largest cutting tool manufacturer, would move into a purpose built unit on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP), alongside McLaren.

A global leader in rotary cutting tools for the aerospace industry, Technicut announced a move to Shepcote Business Park from its Attercliffe base in 2019, before the aviation sector was hit by a downturn following COVID.

Now plans from the Harworth Group show a 86,800 sq ft warehouse for Technicut on land fronting the Parkway, next door to McLaren and SBD.

Drawn up by Stantec, the application states: "The proposed development will provide a new headquarters for Technicut. [It] will provide a dedicated building comprising a mix of production, lab, office and meeting room space. The new building will allow the company to build upon their success and grow in a new high tech high quality new site whilst remining within close proximity to the AMRC to allow Technicut to continue their collaborative involvement."

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Professor Keith Ridgway CBE worked with Technicut's then sales director, Adrian Allen OBE, to launch the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) with Boeing in 2001 and the founding company continues to be a Tier 1 member at the AMRC.

The plans add: "Technicut continually invest in ongoing research and development (R&D) to advance pioneering tooling innovations that redefine manufacturing standards. They utilise both internal R&D facilities and external centres for collaborative technology development to develop new tooling concepts across both milling and drilling platforms to solve advanced production problems.

"Techinut also in addition to their own R&D activities have the capacity to collaborate with customers to utilise the AMRC to pioneer new engineering programmes and manufacturing methodologies for both the problems of today and the requirements of tomorrow. The AMRC provides a collaborative environment to allow aerospace industries and manufacturers to develop ground breaking scientific theory to deliver new solutions for advanced production problems."

With a highly skilled engineering team, the proposed development has been futureproofed and includes a first floor of office space which will facilitate employees working in the labs and research spaces. It is envisaged that the first floor will not be occupied from the outset but rather be occupied as and when the company operations demand it and/ or as the company grows.

The new location will enable the company to remain local to their origin whilst providing them the space they need to further grow their business

The application conculdes: "In short, this application seeks to build on the success of both the AMP and Technicut’s success which contributes towards the advanced manufacturing success of the region. The proposed development will facilitate the attraction and retention of highly skilled jobs on the AMP."

In recent months, Rothbiz has reported on plans for a number of new occupiers on the AMP including Vulcan Engineering Ltd, Insight, and Danieli.

The AMP was recently confirmed at the heart of a new South Yorkshire Investment Zone, the first in the UK.

Technicut website

Images: Technicut / Harris Partnership

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News: Putting manufacturing at the heart of social, environmental and economic renewal

A leading figure in the world of advanced manufacturing has joined forces with experts in innovation districts, land development and public affairs, to establish a strategic advisory business that directly supports the growth of more resilient, inclusive and sustainable economies.

Bridgway Global, headquartered in West Yorkshire, brings together the talents of three key figures – Professor Keith Ridgway CBE, Iain Thomson and John Yates – who worked together in transforming the site of the derelict Orgreave colliery and coking works in Rotherham into a cluster of advanced manufacturing companies including Rolls Royce, Boeing, McLaren, Nikken and the UKAEA.

Professor Ridgway worked with Adrian Allen OBE to launch the AMRC with Boeing in 2001. It has played the key part in the transformation of the former colliery site and has given Rotherham the recognition as being at the heart of world-class advanced manufacturing.

Expanding over the Parkway into Sheffield, the location became the UK's first Advanced Manufactuing Innovation District, with local policy makers keen to see it expand further as part of the South Yorkshire Investment Zone.

Professor Ridgway, Director of Bridgway Global who leads the business on manufacturing and industrial innovation said: “With the United States, China and the European Union putting advanced manufacturing at the heart of their economic strategies it is vital that the United Kingdom, with its ambition to be a science superpower, does not get left behind.

“We must not repeat the mistakes of the 1980s and 1990s. An innovative and expanding manufacturing base is essential to building strong communities and a more sustainable economic future, driving big gains in productivity and turning the brilliant ideas born of fundamental science into home grown businesses, technologies and products.”

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In the 1990s, government had all but abandoned South Yorkshire to de-industrialisation, but today a new community of more than 2,000 homes is blossoming at Waverley alongside the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) = a world-class cluster of aerospace, green energy, defence, and automotive brands and their supply chains.

Fellow Director and Bellona Advisors’ Managing Director Iain Thomson, who leads the business on land and property development matters and public-private partnerships, said: “The wealth of knowledge and experience in the team enables us to act as a vital bridge between advanced manufacturers, land and property interests, research institutions and both national and regional government in an era of growing devolution across the world.”

Bridgway’s initial service offer builds on this experience by providing strategic advice to major landowners and developers looking to promote new advanced manufacturing schemes and decarbonisation clusters. It will also connect advanced manufacturers – from global OEMs and their supply chains – to policy makers, Research & Development specialists and funders, to improve market conditions to grow their businesses, including the development of industrial and spatial policy at national and regional level and the creation of public-private financial instruments.

Bridgway Global Director John Yates, who was Head of External Affairs at the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) when Boeing, McLaren and the UKAEA opened facilities on the campus, added: “As a small, agile business armed with a wealth of experience in all these fields, we can be the catalyst that cuts through obstacles and delay to make things happen and get stuff done. These are challenging and uncertain times for the UK economy, but if we can bridge the divide at Orgreave we believe we can be a bridge over troubled economic waters anywhere.”

Bridgway Global website

Images: Bridgway Global

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News: AMRC Training Centre ten years on

The University of Sheffield AMRC Training Centre is celebrating its tenth birthday.

With state-of-the-art facilities on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham, the centre has trained over 1,700 apprentices, helping to create the manufacturing workforce of the future.

Opening on October 7 2013, The AMRC Training Centre is on the former Orgreave Colliery and Coking works where the focus is on students aged from 16 upwards, taken on paid apprenticeships by big names and local manufacturers. Apprentices have opportunities to progress on to postgraduate courses, doctorates and MBA levels.

Nikki Jones, the director of the AMRC Training Centre, said: “When you bring together education and industry - it is very powerful. You might describe it as a marriage made in heaven.

"We’ve been doing apprenticeships for ten years now and they matter just as much now as when we started. They are so important for the education mix and providing the workforce for the future. Any industry needs to have skilled people going into their businesses, apprenticeships give them access to that pipeline of talent.

“We must continue to invest in apprenticeships nationally and continue to support all employers - large or small - to take on apprentices. They bring in new skills and fresh ideas, and their ability to progress within an organisation starts very early. If you start your apprenticeship at 16 and finish at 22, you have been in that industry for quite some time and can move much quicker into senior roles. We see that over and over again.

“Apprenticeships start preparing a person for their work life. When you put a young person into that environment, they really develop holistically because they have to be more than just a qualification.”

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Alumni apprentice Bethany Cousins was part of the first cohort of students to undertake an apprenticeship at the AMRC Training Centre, aged 18. Starting with her advanced apprenticeship, Beth went on to complete a degree apprenticeship, both in manufacturing engineering.

Beth, who works as a manufacturing engineer at the neighbouring AMRC, said: “My apprenticeship at the AMRC Training Centre paved the way to my career, I wouldn’t have got both the practical and theoretical experience in any other way.

“I enjoyed meeting other apprentices, especially those who were based in other companies. It enabled me to hear about how others applied the theory and perhaps did things a little differently, it was a great additional learning experience.

“South Yorkshire sits in a heavy manufacturing-based area and it’s fantastic to have the AMRC Training Centre sit in-between, having my place of work next door really helped in getting that hands-on experience, and enabled me to network with key industry contacts I would keep for years to come.”

Former apprentice Connor, 22, who completed his degree apprenticeship in maintenance engineering, spent almost five years working for hand tool and storage solutions manufacturer Stanley Black & Decker at Hellaby in Rotherham, but for the past six months, has been working as a methods process analyst for aerospace giant Boeing at its Sheffield facility, which is the only one in Europe.

Connor said: "Rotherham has a rich industrial heritage and I feel it’s important to uplift people’s knowledge and skills, whatever age, and keep these valuable jobs in the UK, instead of seeing engineering progress and advancements be lost to other countries. We need to keep the UK industry alive."

New apprenticeship pathways at the centre include include automation and controls, composites and nuclear and it is also part of the consortium behind a new South Yorkshire Institute of Technology (IoT) that will launch this year, investing £500,000 in new software and technology at the training centre.

Looking ahead, Gareth Wilkinson, head of skills at the AMRC Training Centre, said: "I’d like for us to move into new things, build on what we’ve got, as well as exploring food and drink and nuclear, robotics and Industry 4.0 more. These are all massive areas where we’ll see growth and change in the future, all connected to net zero and sustainability – and it’s here where we really need to ramp up over the coming years to help our apprentices solve the problems of the future and keep on top of the needs of industry.”

AMRC Training Centre website

Images: AMRC Training Centre

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News: AMRC in the race to inspire next generation of engineers

Make UK and the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) are teaming up to inspire the next generation of talented engineers as the two organisations host an event for National Manufacturing Day – with two McLaren show cars joining the starting line up.

Make UK, which champions engineering and manufacturing in the UK, is working closely with the AMRC to celebrate National Manufacturing Day on September 28, which looks to inspire a new generation of engineers by showcasing the range of diverse, highly-skilled and well-paid jobs on offer in the industry. The special day will see the AMRC open its doors in South Yorkshire to welcome 180 young people who are looking to take the next steps in their education journey.

The groups of young people will see the AMRC’s cutting-edge technology in action at its flagship Factory 2050 site in Sheffield, and have the opportunity to get involved with a range of interactive activities including virtual welding, 3D printing and robotics. It’s also a chance for them to chat with engineers about their experiences in industry and hear from businesses about the career opportunities on offer in manufacturing.

McLaren, which as a state-of-the-art production facility on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham, is just one of the businesses that work with the AMRC to promote manufacturing amongst young people, and those in attendance will be able to get up close and personal with a McLaren F1 show car and McLaren Automotive 765LT road car. They will also have the opportunity to speak to McLaren employees about their career in manufacturing, as well as the important role that composite parts play in the manufacture of McLaren’s race and road cars.

National Manufacturing Day is an annual celebration of industry and events such as these are more important than ever as increasing numbers of today’s engineers near retirement and businesses need to build-up an increasingly diverse workforce that’s ready to tackle future challenges – with vacancies at a 20-year high, according to the Make UK 2030 Skills: Closing the gap report.

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Steve Foxley, chief executive officer for the AMRC, highlights the need to encourage and inspire the minds of this next generation, who will play a vital role in closing the skills gap and help to improve digital manufacturing, sustainability and net zero.

“We’re really proud to support National Manufacturing Day,” Steve said. “Young people are our future and it is right that we invest in them to secure that pipeline of talent for industry.

“That is why it is so important for us to be working with Make UK to celebrate National Manufacturing Day, so we can play a part in capturing imaginations by showing them what it is like to work at the very cutting-edge of technology, how what we do here makes an impact, not only regionally, but nationally. I want them to see how we can transform lives through innovation.

“Skills and training matter to us. We really want to see more people getting into apprenticeships because it’s extremely important to ensure that traditional skills continue to be developed, alongside developing new skills that help manufacturers keep pace with changing technologies and overcome industrial challenges.”

Dawn Huntrod, Region Director North, Make UK said: “This is a really exciting day where the whole manufacturing sector is coming together to celebrate all the amazing things that Britain designs and makes.

“Our companies are at the forefront of some of the most innovative engineering and technological developments seen anywhere around the world. This is a sector with a host of wonderful opportunities for people of all ages and we hope this second National Manufacturing Day will inspire people to take a look inside their local manufacturing businesses to see for themselves the high-skilled and well-paid careers available to them.”

The day will provide a valuable insight into the impact that innovative research and advanced manufacturing has, both regionally and nationally, showing young people how they can begin a journey in this amazing industry.

The AMRC, in partnership with a number of businesses, including McLaren Racing and McLaren Automotive, Razor, Siemens, FourJaw and Boeing, as well as the University of Sheffield AMRC Training Centre and the University of Sheffield, will act as a manufacturing hub to showcase the engineering excellence, innovation and skills – all under one roof – at the state-of-the-art Factory 2050 facility.

McLaren Automotive website
AMRC website

Images: AMRC

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