Siemens marked
National Manufacturing Day 2025 last week (25 September) by welcoming over 260 students to its UK sites, offering a rare glimpse into the future of industry and the technologies shaping modern manufacturing. The initiative, led by
Make UK, saw Siemens host events across multiple locations, including its factories in Hebburn, Congleton, and Goole.
At the Hebburn site in South Tyneside, 23 students from Boldon School, St Joseph’s and Hebburn Comprehensive were given a first-hand look at the career opportunities available in advanced manufacturing. The visit included interactive demonstrations and discussions aimed at sparking interest in STEM subjects and careers.
Meanwhile, Siemens’ Congleton team took their outreach off-site, delivering sessions to more than 200 students at the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Institute of Technology. Experts showcased cutting-edge technologies such as digital twins, industrial AI and energy simulation platforms, providing students with hands-on experiences and insights into the digital transformation of manufacturing.
In Goole, Siemens Mobility partnered with Make UK and
The Work-Wise Foundation to host factory tours for 42 students from Doncaster UTC, Vale Academy, and Withernsea High School. The students observed the production of the new Piccadilly Line trains and explored the components facility, where train parts from across the UK are serviced.
The visit also included STEM activities and career talks designed to highlight pathways into the sector. Siemens extended its reach further by collaborating with the School Outreach Company to deliver a virtual manufacturing webinar, engaging nine secondary schools and colleges across the country.
Brian Holliday, managing director at Siemens UK and Ireland, emphasised the importance of the initiative: “Manufacturing is one of the UK’s most valuable sectors, contributing £220 billion to the economy and employing 2.6 million people. It is a career that pays 8% more than the national average and offers the chance to work with technologies that are reshaping the world.
“However, we need a workforce that’s digitally fluent, curious and ready to lead change if we are to capitalise on the technologies transforming industry and make the UK’s Industrial Strategy a success.”
New era of innovationHe added that
National Manufacturing Day plays a vital role in tackling the sector’s most pressing challenges, including the growing skills gap and the need to boost productivity: “By opening our doors, we are doing our bit to demystify modern manufacturing, challenge outdated perceptions and show how technology is driving a new era of innovation and opportunity across the sector.”
Ben Fletcher, COO of Make UK, echoed the sentiment: “
National Manufacturing Day has been extremely powerful in showcasing the wonderful career opportunities available in this diverse sector. In past years, people of all ages and stages in their careers have taken the chance to come along and have a look to see what we do, and this interest has translated into them taking up manufacturing roles, a career choice they would probably not have had the chance to investigate properly before.”
He added: “Literally hundreds of companies across the country are opening up to schools, colleges and local communities in what is now a burgeoning day of celebration. I could not be more proud of the initiative and cannot thank Britain’s manufacturers enough for making it the success it is today.”
Launched in 2022,
National Manufacturing Day has grown into a UK-wide celebration of innovation, talent and impact across the sector. It provides manufacturers with a platform to showcase career opportunities, share achievements and engage with future talent. With over 250 companies participating in 2024 and even more expected this year, the initiative continues to strengthen the connection between industry and education.