Factories and facilities across the UK are welcoming thousands of visitors today (25th September) as part of
National Manufacturing Day, an initiative designed to showcase the breadth of career opportunities available in the sector.
From school pupils exploring subject choices to experienced professionals considering a career change, the day offers a unique chance to see British manufacturing in action. Companies are hosting hands-on workshops, tours, and Q&A sessions with apprentices, engineers, and managers, giving visitors a real-world insight into the roles that power the industry.
Stephen Phipson CBE, CEO of
Make UK, the manufacturers’ organisation, said: “
National Manufacturing Day is growing every year and is where the diverse sector comes together to celebrate British innovation and showcase the careers on offer to people of all ages across the whole of the country.
Our companies are at the forefront of technology development and global design, and we hope this fourth National Manufacturing Day will encourage people who have never thought of manufacturing as their future to come along to see what it is really like. This is a highly paid sector with good jobs which offer something for everyone. I started my career as an apprentice engineer, and it is a decision I have not regretted for a single day.”
Many rewarding career opportunitiesThe UK’s manufacturing base spans aerospace, automotive, food and drink, pharmaceuticals, defence, and renewable technologies. Roles on offer go far beyond the shopfloor, with opportunities in marketing, logistics, R&D, design and production. Many of these positions come with structured training and development pathways, making the sector attractive to both new entrants and those looking to re-skill.
Chris McDonald, Minister for Industry, added: “As a former steelworker, I share the pride in making things that defines our manufacturing communities. Manufacturing offers high skilled jobs, pays higher wages, accounts for the majority of innovation spend and punches above its weight in exports.
“This Government believes in British manufacturing and our Plan for Change includes our Modern Industrial Strategy, with manufacturing at its heart. I would like to thank our manufacturing industry and workers for their contribution to the UK economy as we mark
National Manufacturing Day.”
With hundreds of companies participating nationwide,
National Manufacturing Day continues to grow in scale and ambition, reinforcing the sector’s role as a cornerstone of the UK economy and a driver of innovation and opportunity.