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Manufacturing & Industry
So you’ve designed a brilliant new product? Time to get it made! Find out how careers in manufacturing and industry fit together.
What's manufacturing and industry?
🏭 What is manufacturing?
Manufacturing is all about turning cool designs into real products, whether it’s a jet aircraft or your favourite mug, using machines, tools and even some good old-fashioned handcrafting.
🛠️ And industry more broadly?
Industry is about taking raw materials and transforming them into the finished goods we need every day.
Need more info? Ask an Apprentice
Considering an apprenticeship in this area of work? Or just unsure about uni? Our Ask an Apprentice community is made for you! Be mentored and chat with real apprentices, get application tips, and ask all your burning questions through our new platform.
What jobs can I do?
Engineer
Engineers are the creative geniuses behind the design and build of products. They tackle problems and innovate, making everything from gadgets to cars come to life.
Food technologist
Food technologists are like culinary wizards, creating delicious recipes and new food products. They make sure everything we eat is safe, yummy, and trendy – think ready meals and snacks!
Industrial engineer
Industrial engineers are the efficiency ninjas, blending people, money, and machines for maximum productivity. They often roll in as consultants to level up how companies work.
Manufacturing engineer
Manufacturing engineers design the tools and systems that help make products. They’re all about keeping the production process smooth and effective.
Manufacturing manager
Manufacturing managers are the bosses on the factory floor, overseeing production and making sure everything runs like a well-oiled machine.
Production engineer
Production engineers optimise production lines to boost efficiency. They strategise the best ways to streamline operations and get products out the door faster.
Production worker
Production workers get their hands dirty in the creation process, running machines and packing finished goods. They might even train in cool skills like electronics or fine stitching!
Quality assurance manager
Quality assurance (QA) managers are the guardians of quality, ensuring products meet all safety and legal standards. They set guidelines and develop testing methods to keep things top-notch.
What skills do I need?
📋 Organisation
Organisation keeps projects on track and ensures everything runs like a clock in the fast-paced manufacturing world.
🔨 Practical skills
Practical skills are a must for hands-on roles, from operating machines to crafting products. They let you turn wild ideas into reality with mad precision.
🧐 Problem solving
Problem solving is super important in manufacturing. You’ll tackle challenges with creativity, finding fresh solutions to improve processes and outcomes.
📝 Project management
Project management is all about juggling tasks and deadlines. This skill keeps projects on schedule and within budget, making you a total asset to any team.
🧑🏾🤝🧑🏽 Teamwork
Teamwork is key in manufacturing! You’ll collaborate with others to hit common goals, so effective communication and support are a must!
How can I start a career in manufacturing and industry?
🛠️ What apprenticeships can I do?
Apprenticeships are awesome, with options from level 2 to level 7, like the level 6 tool process design engineer one. Plus, there’s even a level 7 solicitor apprenticeship instead of uni!
🎓 Is uni an option?
Uni is a solid route if you’re eyeing an engineering role. Many engineers go for degrees followed by postgrad quals to up their career game.
📜 What professional qualifications will I gain?
You can snag qualifications like a BTEC in Engineering or an NVQ in chemical manufacturing through apprenticeships. It’s a great way to gain skills while getting real experience!
⭐ How can I stand out?
Show off your problem-solving chops and creativity! Get involved in projects, internships, or side hustles to build your portfolio and prove your passion for the industry.
What qualifications can I get?
What degree options do I have?
You can chase degrees in engineering, manufacturing, industrial design or food science. These will equip you with the skills to crush it in manufacturing and industry!
What qualifications can I get through a manufacturing and industry apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships can lead to loads of qualifications, like BTECs and NVQs. You might also earn a degree or industry-recognised certification while gaining hands-on experience!
5 fun facts you didn’t know
Boosting manufacturing is government policy
The new government is dropping £4.5 billion into manufacturing, focusing on green tech like battery storage. This is a great opportunity for your future career!
The future of manufacturing is eco!
Think solar-powered factories, recycled materials and zero-waste processes. These innovations help reduce pollution and conserve resources.
The Industrial Revolution kicked off in Britain
Innovations like the steam engine and spinning jenny transformed the world forever. Soon, factories sprung up and railways criss-crossed the country.
The UK still leads the way
From Jaguar Land Rover to pharma company GlaxoSmithKline, the UK is a key player on the global stage!
Want to work with a robot?
Robots are a big part of the manufacturing scene. They help build everything from cars to smartphones, making production faster and more efficient!
Need more info? Ask an Apprentice
Considering an apprenticeship in this area of work? Or just unsure about uni? Our Ask an Apprentice community is made for you! Be mentored and chat with real apprentices, get application tips, and ask all your burning questions through our new platform.
