Awards

Manufacturing has a growing skills shortage due to an ageing workforce and rising demand for technical roles. Young people, apprentices and graduates are needed to drive innovation and support the future growth of the Leeds and West Yorkshire manufacturing sector.

LMF connects employers with young people through career fairs, school engagement, workplace visits, manufacturing showcases and apprenticeship events. These activities help students explore real job options and meet future employers directly.

A national shortage of technical skills, combined with experienced staff retiring, has created high demand for new talent. This shortage makes young people with engineering or digital skills especially valuable to the sector.

Employers can attract young people by hosting factory tours, joining school and college careers events, promoting apprenticeships and engaging with training providers. Working with the Leeds Manufacturing Festival gives businesses direct visibility to thousands of potential future recruits.