Business

Manufacturing and engineering sector to be showcased throughout the month of March

Economy Minister Diane Dodds with Manufacturing NI chief executive, Stephen Kelly
Economy Minister Diane Dodds with Manufacturing NI chief executive, Stephen Kelly Economy Minister Diane Dodds with Manufacturing NI chief executive, Stephen Kelly

THE north’s manufacturing and engineering sector will be showcased for an entire month through a new Stormont-backed initiative.

‘Manufacturing Month’, led by Manufacturing NI, will run throughout March, with a series of events, business breakfasts, seminars and workplace tours organised throughout the north during the four weeks.

The months will also include the annual ‘Anchor High’ leadership summit and see delegations visit major engineering centres in England.

Chief Executive of Manufacturing NI, Stephen Kelly, said the month will be used to highlight local manufacturing success stories, address major challenges as we enter the new decade, and inspire the next generation of manufacturers and engineers.

“The manufacturing sector in Northern Ireland is the foundation of our regional economy. manufacturing month is a celebration of the great people, in great local companies, making great products used at home and around the world.

“From food processing and pharmaceuticals to aeronautical technology and new, emerging tech like AI and machine learning, Northern Ireland punches well above its weight when it comes to producing world-class products and services.”

“This new initiative not only celebrates the people who make our manufacturing sector the world leader that it is,” said Mr Kelly. “But will create a legacy and a pathway for the next generation of sector leaders. A key feature of Manufacturing Month NI will be a major outreach and engagement programme with schools and regional colleges, focused on promoting the sector to young people, developing the crucial skills they need as they enter the industry.”

New Economy Minister Diane Dodds has given the Manufacturing NI initiative her seal of approval.

“I commend Manufacturing NI for this new initiative which celebrates one of Northern Ireland’s most vital sectors. Northern Ireland has a long and proud history of manufacturing and engineering brilliance. Manufacturing Month NI will highlight the immense talent of the local sector.

“By supporting innovative initiatives like Manufacturing Month NI, we are showcasing the best and brightest in one of our most important industries.”

Calling on firms to back the month, Stephen Kelly said: “We hope to see as many companies as possible across the length and breadth of Northern Ireland get involved with Manufacturing Month NI.

“We are keen to highlight new products, new initiatives, workplace tours, business expansion, and everything else in between to showcase the strength and quality of our local manufacturing sector.”

Manufacturing month has also been backed by KPMG, Siemens, Willis Towers Watson, Barclays, and Invest NI.