A Growing Crisis: Voices from the Sector
I recently took part in a panel discussion at a Manufacturing event in Manchester, where this issue dominated the conversation. One Managing Director from an engineering company described it perfectly when he said, “It’s like walking to a cliff edge… we just cannot recruit.” That statement resonated across the room – and it sums up the growing sense of urgency many of us feel. What came through loud and clear was the concern that young people simply don’t want to enter manufacturing or engineering roles – particularly engineering, which still suffers from the outdated stigma of being “full of old men”. It’s a stereotype that’s not only unhelpful, but completely out of step with the reality of modern manufacturing environments.
Rebranding Manufacturing for the Next Generation
For me, the big question is this: how are these organisations presenting themselves to the next generation? What is your brand saying? What kind of language are you using? Are you showcasing the opportunities, the innovation, and the purpose that lie at the heart of manufacturing? Because let’s be honest – young people today are looking for more than just a payslip. They want to be part of something that reflects their values. That means visible career pathways, clear development plans, genuine commitments to sustainability, diversity in the workforce, and progress towards carbon net zero.
The image of manufacturing needs a reboot – and that starts with how we communicate. I’ve seen some fantastic examples of companies running placement schemes that allow school leavers to experience the energy and excitement of these environments first-hand. When we open the doors, when we show them the technology, the collaboration, the sense of achievement – then, and only then, do we start to spark genuine interest. If we don’t show them, they won’t see it. And if they don’t see it, they won’t choose it.
A Personal Journey that Proves the Value
The Power of Apprenticeships to Build Capability
Can you imagine if you had new employees with that same passion and appetite for learning? This is exactly why the Supply Chain Practitioner apprenticeship is so powerful. Its breadth gives learners exposure to a wide range of functions and departments – encouraging them to develop a holistic understanding, make connections across the business, and truly “join the dots”.
At SR Supply Chain Consultants Ltd (SRSCC), we believe that apprenticeships have a vital role to play in solving the skills crisis – and not just for young people entering the workplace. Apprenticeships are for anyone who needs re-skilling or upskilling, regardless of age or background. They’re about building capability, confidence, and career direction – all while delivering real business value.
Shaping the Workforce of the Future
The Supply Chain Practitioner apprenticeship offers a clear development pathway for individuals while giving employers access to fresh thinking and practical skills across critical areas such as inventory management, quality techniques, health and safety, logistics, project support, stakeholder communication, forecasting, and much more.
It’s not just about filling gaps – it’s about building the future workforce. Employers who invest in apprenticeships are also investing in their own long-term resilience. They’re shaping talent to fit the specific needs of their business, embedding values, and creating a culture where learning is continuous, and contribution is recognised.
Time for a New Talent Strategy
Now is the time for manufacturing and engineering organisations to take a long, hard look at their strategy for attracting and developing people. If we want to challenge perceptions, reverse the talent drain, and build stronger, smarter organisations, we must start with how we talk about ourselves – and back it up with meaningful, accessible pathways like apprenticeships.
Because the future of manufacturing depends not only on the machines we invest in – but on the people we bring through the door.
Written by: Susan Rashid FCIPS, CPSM, PGCE, MBA, CEO SRSCC
