UK automotive delivers impressive support as government’s ‘See Inside Manufacturing’ initiative returns

Throughout June, 30 UK automotive sites will open their doors to young people, as part of government’s ‘See Inside Manufacturing’ initiative, aiming to challenge perceptions of the industry and encourage more students to consider a career in engineering.

Automotive companies across the UK will host a range of hands-on activities designed to highlight the career opportunities within one of the UK’s most diverse industries. Part of a comprehensive national programme of events, the UK automotive sector is set to inspire the next generation of budding engineers.

Launched by government and supported through the Automotive Council, the motor industry pioneered the very first ‘See Inside Manufacturing’ initiative last year, providing students with a valuable insight to modern manufacturing.

The initiative aims to challenge perceptions that the UK has an outdated manufacturing sector and encourage more young people to take up Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects, in order to boost the UK’s skills base. Students and teachers who responded to a survey of last year’s automotive pilot were exceptionally positive, leading, Business Secretary, Vince Cable to announce its return and expansion to the aerospace, defence, and food and drink sectors.

Speaking on behalf of the automotive sector, Paul Everitt, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “Despite the economic challenges, these are exciting times for everyone in the UK automotive sector. Our industry continues to attract high levels of international investment, maintaining the country’s position right at the heart of global low carbon technology innovation. With investment, government support and a wealth of new innovative products set to be built here, there’s never been a better time to pursue an automotive career.”

Business Minister Mark Prisk said, “See Inside Manufacturing is about changing perceptions of modern manufacturing and showing young people, teachers and careers advisers that the industry offers interesting and rewarding job opportunities.

“I’m delighted that SMMT and the automotive sector are once again pledging their support to the programme following the successful trial last year. It’s encouraging to have iconic names like Allied Vehicles, Aston Martin, BMW, Honda and Jaguar Land Rover all signing up to take part.

“Last year thousands of people got to see just what exciting opportunities lie in the sector and wider supply chain, and I urge people to come along and see for themselves what modern manufacturing is all about.”

More than 700,000 people are employed across design, engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, aftermarket and retail sectors with UK engineers and executives respected around the world. Industry takes on thousands of automotive apprentices each year and looks to initiatives such as See Inside Manufacturing to ensure it continues to attract the best and brightest young talent.
To find out the activities that automotive companies, including Allied Vehicles, Aston Martin, BMW, GKN Driveline, Honda, Jaguar Land Rover, Lotus, Michelin, Millbrook, MINI, Vauxhall and many more, are staging in June as part of the ‘See Inside’ programme, click here.

To view the table of UK automotive ‘See Inside Manufacturing’ events please click here