A campaign which aims to close skills gaps in Chesterfield by providing young people with tours of manufacturing, engineering and construction businesses is returning for the tenth time.
Made in Chesterfield has already introduced more than 3,600 young people to the prospect of a career in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and maths) sectors, with more set to gain valuable insights this November.
The campaign, coordinated by Destination Chesterfield and Direct Education Business Partnership and sponsored by Chesterfield College, was officially launched at a celebration event alongside the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions.
Figures published in East Midlands Chamber’s Q3 economic survey revealed that 58% of manufacturers across the region which tried to recruit experienced problems in finding suitable staff. At the same time, Chesterfield Borough Council has forecast that 3,750 people are expected to be working in the sector across the borough by 2030.
These figures outline the requirement for a strong, skilled pipeline of talented individuals to secure the future growth of these industries across the town.
During Made in Chesterfield, secondary school pupils will gain access to firms such as Weightron Bilanciai – an international firm that makes industrial weighbridges, Superior Wellness, a hot tub manufacturer listed as one of the UK’s top 50 fastest-growing businesses, and Dalton Roofing, a family-run business operating in Chesterfield’s property and construction sector.
Ivan Fomin, Managing Director at MSE Hiller and Destination Chesterfield Board Member, said: “Made in Chesterfield continues to play an important role in showcasing the wide range of career options available to young people in our town.
“Having hosted several tours at my own business, I’ve seen first-hand how the campaign inspires those thinking about their future options. We know a career in manufacturing can be extremely rewarding, and our sector needs to keep generating a strong pipeline of talented individuals for the future to keep our business and wider economy thriving.”
Julie Richards, Principal and CEO of the Chesterfield College Group, said: “Having sponsored Made in Chesterfield for the past few years I’ve seen the real impact the initiative has. As a stepping stone between student and employer, we are proud to help this campaign inspire young people considering a rewarding career in Chesterfield’s growing manufacturing, engineering and construction industries.
“With work on our new cutting-edge Engineering, Manufacturing and Science Centre due to commence this year and our partnership with the Construction Skills Hub now running in Staveley we’ll continue to equip more local people with the right skills required to build a successful career and help to strengthen the local and regional economy.”
Clare Talati, CEO of Direct Education Business Partnership (DEBP), added: “Made in Chesterfield makes an important contribution to the CEIAG (Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance) offer across the area; providing context for learners of the world of work, showcasing local opportunities, and enabling employers to meet potential future employees.”
