‘Unsung Heroes in Manufacturing’ initiative launched

Advanced Engineering UK, a national engineering and manufacturing exhibition, has launched its new Unsung Heroes in Manufacturing initiative. This inspiring programme aims to shine a spotlight on individuals whose dedication and leadership are making a tangible difference across the sector, particularly at a time when skills shortages remain a critical challenge.

Central to the initiative is a new searchable online directory profiling these often-overlooked champions. Hosted on the Advanced Engineering website, the hub will connect emerging engineering talent with seasoned professionals, showcasing diverse role models and real-world insight. By bridging these connections, the programme aspires to motivate the next generation of engineers ahead of Advanced Engineering 2025, which returns to the NEC, Birmingham, on 29–30 October.

Unsung Heroes in Manufacturing is the latest chapter in Advanced Engineering’s broader #MINDTHEskillsGAP campaign, a movement calling for stronger collaboration between policymakers and industry leaders to develop sustainable strategies for securing the future workforce. Recent figures reveal that 75% of UK manufacturers cite skills shortages as a key barrier to growth, underscoring the urgency for innovative approaches to talent development.

Unlike traditional awards programmes, this initiative focuses on everyday leadership: mentoring apprentices, driving skills investment and championing inclusion across all levels of the sector. By celebrating these contributions, organisers hope to amplify the value of lived experience and ensure it reaches those who can benefit most.

Nominations are set to open later this month, inviting industry professionals to put forward colleagues, mentors, or partners who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to developing skills and advancing the sector’s progress. Selected nominees will be featured in the online directory, creating new pathways for networking, collaboration, and visibility through speaking engagements, panel discussions, and sector-wide partnerships.

“Unsung Heroes in Manufacturing is about recognising the people behind the progress,” says Simon Farnfield, Event Director for Advanced Engineering. “Our sector is full of unsung leaders driving change, whether that’s through mentoring apprentices, pushing for skills investment or championing inclusion. We’ve designed this initiative to make their voices louder and help their impact go further.”

The campaign will run throughout the summer and continue into the build-up to Advanced Engineering 2025.