Business people are invited to find out more about a programme to train and develop Trafford’s manufacturing workforce at an event at the Imperial War Museum North on Thursday 12 February.
At the event, Trafford Council will present the Advanced Manufacturing and Materials Skills Development Programme, a three-year initiative funded by Greater Manchester Combined Authority, aimed at building skills and supporting innovation across the manufacturing sector.
The initiative will be delivered by the Centre for Digital Innovation and Trafford and Stockport College Group.
It is open to all Trafford-based manufacturing businesses, including those in traditional or established sectors who may not see themselves as ‘advanced manufacturing’.
Organisations will be able to help shape training that supports them to modernise, adopt new technologies, and futureproof their processes, ensuring they remain competitive in a rapidly changing industry.
Together, opportunities to build digital skills for automation, and adopt lean manufacturing methods that reduce costs and carbon, will be explored. Businesses will then benefit directly from the upskilling of staff who take part.
For many manufacturers, investing in the development of staff capability can support gradual modernisation, stabilise operations and create a stronger platform for future growth.
The programme will also involve work with schools to inspire the next generation of manufacturing employees, showcasing opportunities, and feature a new Trafford Manufacturing Week.
Trafford-based business representatives are welcome to find out more at the event, Future-Ready Manufacturing: Skills, Innovation and Productivity, from 8.30am to 1pm.
Participants must reserve a place via Eventbrite. Anyone who cannot attend but wants to know more can register their interest by email to business@trafford.gov.uk.
Cllr Liz Patel, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Economy and Regeneration, said:
“This is a great opportunity for businesses to identify where skills gaps are and work together to take action to bridge them. This initiative ties in with the Council priority for fostering a thriving economy locally and will contribute to the continued growth of the whole city region.”