The call comes as new analysis from Made Smarter Yorkshire reveals that one in four manufacturers taking part in its digital leadership and skills courses have involved more than one employee over time, with some engaging as many as four people to help drive digital transformation.
The findings from the Government-backed programme highlight how manufacturers are spreading digital knowledge across their businesses, developing skills at different levels, from senior decision-makers shaping strategy to employees turning plans into action.
The trend builds on five years of investment in digital skills through Made Smarter Yorkshire, with 147 people completing or undertaking fully funded training since 2021. This includes Hull manufacturers GMP Manufacturing, Scott Dixon, Kinetic Laboratories, Point Engineering, Teal & Mackrill and The Water Hydraulics Company, who have enrolled multiple people in the courses.
As manufacturers grapple with the rapid growth of AI, automation, robotics, additive manufacturing and data-driven technologies, the programme is encouraging more businesses in Hull to explore how developing their workforce could help them take advantage of these opportunities.
Delivered by experts at Sheffield Hallam University, the fully funded Digital Manufacturing Leadership and Digital Manufacturing Champions courses combine workshops, webinars and hands-on exposure to digital technology with a strong focus on the people side of transformation.
Participants learn how to identify where technology can add value, develop a strategy for adoption, engage colleagues and lead change. The courses aim to ensure investment in technology is matched by the leadership, skills and confidence needed to turn it into improvements in productivity and growth.
Jessica Armitage, Programme Manager for Made Smarter Yorkshire, said: “It’s encouraging to see manufacturers creating digital teams with the skills and confidence to drive change. Digital transformation is much more likely to succeed when knowledge and ownership are shared across the business, helping manufacturers bring people with them and turn digital ambitions into action.
“We’re keen to help more Yorkshire manufacturers recognise the opportunities digital technology can create, and I’d encourage businesses to explore the support available through Made Smarter Yorkshire.”
To learn more about Made Smarter Yorkshire skills support and future courses, visit madesmarter.uk/yorkshire-skills/
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