Traditionally, the advanced engineering sector has been an important sector within Plymouth and currently it is estimated that this sector employees some 20,000 people in Plymouth.
Sector Group
An Advanced Engineering Sector Group exists which is chaired by Alan Courts, Finance Director of Plymouth based Rittals-CSM and Chair of PBG. The group comprises representatives from BAE, Plymouth Manufacturers Group, Toshiba Carrier, Bluestone, Gleasons, DML, South West RDA, SA Partners, DDA, Bombardier Transportation, the University of Plymouth, Learning and Skills Council, Plymouth College of Further Education.
Action Plan
This group’s priorities are to develop and support this key sector by:
- Creating a networking forum for smaller engineering firms promoting innovation
- Making a positive response to skills shortages
A number of projects have recently started and these include the start-up of a Plymouth Engineering Network, which brings together engineering companies of all shapes and sizes to complement the Plymouth Manufacturers Group.
Innovation is a key priority, and the group is working with the Manufacturing Advisory Service to support a series of topical seminars and workshops, which have been well received by participating firms.
Accessing suitable skills is a top priority. As a response, the group are working with the Learning and Skills Council, on a project whereby manufacturing firms are receiving an audit of their skills requirements, as the first stage in delivering solutions to meet these requirements.
Through taking forward these priorities the group will:
| - | Encourage the development of higher value operations, based on local skills and knowledge to enhance competitive advantage |
| - | Encourage the development of local supply chains, strengthening links between firms and providing opportunities for the growth of smaller companies |
| - | Support the start-up of new indigenous firms to broaden the supply base and reduce reliance on overseas decisions |
| - | Strengthen links with the University and other Higher Education organisations in the region, to encourage knowledge transfer, skills development and commercialisation of research |
| - | Strengthen links with the University and other Higher Education organisations in the region, to encourage knowledge transfer, skills development and commercialisation of research |