Enhancing Business Sustainability in the Manufacturing Sector

In an exciting and forward-thinking endeavour, Telford’s business community, educational institutions, and industry leaders are uniting to fortify the sustainability and competitiveness of our local manufacturing sector. This collaborative effort aims to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ensuring that Telford remains a hub of innovation, resilience and industry excellence. 

Who’s Leading This Agenda?

At Telford Business Board, we’re proud to be playing a pivotal role – amplifying the voice of business, and advocating for sustainability skill development within the region. Other key players who we’re working alongside include:

• DENSO Manufacturing UK, and Muller | These esteemed Telford-based manufacturers recognise the critical role that skilled talent has in propelling operations forwards
• Telford College | As an educational hub, Telford College is committed to equipping learners with the skills required to thrive in the ever-evolving manufacturing sphere
• Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG) | Renowned for research and innovation, WMG brings cutting-edge expertise in digital technologies, engineering, and sustainability. Their collaboration with Telford College ensures a seamless knowledge transfer from academia to industry. 

Collectively, our goal is to empower employees with the competencies necessary for efficient, innovative, and forward-thinking manufacturing. 

What Is This Initiative Set To Achieve?

• Targeting Real-World Skills Gaps

Through focused discussions and on-site visits, DENSO Manufacturing UK, Muller, and Telford’s educational partners have pinpointed specific skills gaps prevalent in local manufacturing companies – which span from digital literacy through to sustainable practices. 

• Innovation Aligned with Industry Needs

The heart of this collaboration lies with aligning innovation with practical application. DENSO Manufacturing UK, Muller, and other manufacturers in the region have committed to integrating digital and sustainability skills directly into their workforce. As a result, they hope to enhance employee performance, operational efficiency, and overall sustainability. 

• Tailored Training Modules

Our Sustainability Sub-Group also actively contributes insights and guidance, ensuring that training remains relevant and impactful. So, in partnership with Telford College and WMG, we’re diligently developing targeted training modules. Carefully curated to address the identified skills gaps, these will equip students and adult learners with the tools they need to thrive in the manufacturing sector – today and in the future. 

• A Competitive Edge for Telford

As a result of this collaboration, Telford’s manufacturing sector gains a competitive edge. Businesses become more resilient, adaptive, and better equipped to navigate future challenges. Plus, this initiative directly supports Telford’s Climate Action Plan, contributing to a sustainable and thriving community. 

Leading this project is Janet Stephens, Deputy CEO at Telford College. She said: “It’s fantastic to be driving forward this valuable initiative, and it’s brilliant that the College is able to act as such a strong partner for these globally-renowned institutions. We’re immensely proud to be connecting strategic local partners, bringing this wealth of knowledge together to enhance both businesses and professionals in the manufacturing sector - today and for the future. 

“Undoubtedly, this partnership will have a long-lasting and positive impact on both our economy and the wider community, and I’m really excited to continue on this trajectory over the coming months.”

Andy Whyle, our Vice Chair, and Sustainability Specialist at S-AW, added:

“My interactions often involve academic and business leaders (albeit typically on separate occasions), but remarkable and inspiring outcomes emerge from these meetings. However, the true magic occurs when these leaders convene in the same room – this is when we delve into the intricacies of shaping innovation and skills, translating them into practical applications within the real world. 

“Our collective goal is to enhance business sustainability within the manufacturing sector. And this partnership promises a direct alignment in fostering digital, engineering, and sustainability skills. Both student and adult learners will benefit from continuous professional growth, ensuring that Telford’s manufacturing sector remains resilient, innovative, and fit for a sustainable future.”