A YOUNG carer and a Monmouth-based packaging firm were among those recognised at Make UK’s Regional Manufacturing Awards.
Connor Bowen-Downes received the Apprentice Endeavour award, after judges lauded his dedication and work ethic as he balances bringing up his younger siblings alongside completing an electrical engineering apprenticeship at Newport-based Industrial Automation and Control.
Connor often stays beyond his hours to meet deadlines, as he juggles the demands of caring for his brother and sister, whether that’s feeding them, getting them to school on time or helping with homework. Something which his bosses have accommodated through discretionary leave.
His employers also labelled him as ‘inspiring’ for managing to excel in his studies and work, while dealing with the challenges at home.
Among the companies honoured were Tri-Wall UK who were crowned in the Business Growth and Strategy, Innovation and Manufacturing Matters categories during the prestigious awards dinner at the Vale Resort, Hensol.
Judges praised their leadership and innovation on the issue of net zero, after successfully addressing the safety challenges of transporting Lithium-ion batteries, becoming the go-to packaging provider for firms selling and transporting Electric Vehicle (EV) batteries.
Connor and Tri-Wall UK were among a host of apprentices and companies rewarded on the night.
After turning down the traditional university route to instead gain work experience as he learned, Lewis Glover, a Business Control Apprentice at Sony UK Technology Centre, Pencoed received the Business Apprentice Final Year award.
Olivia Jones, an Engineering Apprentice at Axiom Manufacturing Services in Newport was named Engineering Apprentice Rising Star, with Finley Sterry picking up the Engineering Apprentice Final Year gong for his work as an Electrical Fitter at Clayton Engineering.
Safran Seats GB also enjoyed multiple successes, first in the Developing Future Talent category for their work reaching out to local schools and colleges to attract new talent, and again with an award for Health, Safety and Wellbeing.
While Cardiff-based CELSA Steel UK rounded off a successful night with recognition for their work improving biodiversity within their workspace, winning in the Energy and Sustainability section.
The victors will now compete in their respective categories at the National Manufacturing Awards in London, in January 2025.
Janis Richards, Region Director for Make UK in Wales, said: “These awards are a testament to the dynamic companies and individuals working within engineering and manufacturing.
“The sector remains at the heart of creating wealth in Wales and, as we grow our economy, there will be a bright future for companies and individuals that make the most of their talent.”
Sony UK Technology Centre are proud to sponsor this year’s Make UK Manufacturing awards. Ryan Jones, General Manager of Operations, said: “For seven years, Sony has proudly supported the Make UK awards, honouring achievements in manufacturing and its dedicated workforce.
“Like these awards, Sony is committed to nurturing future innovators. Manufacturing creativity drives business and community in Wales, and we’re excited to spotlight the region’s leading manufacturers this year.”
Mark Fergusson, Head of Occupational Leasing at Tritax Big Box REIT plc, sponsors of the Business Growth and Strategy category, says: “Congratulations to the well-deserved regional winners of Make UK’s 2024 Business Growth and Strategy Award.
“At Tritax Big Box, we partner with manufacturers across the UK to deliver the critical infrastructure they need to serve their customers and deliver on their strategic objectives.
“We recognise the amazing contribution that these companies make to the UK – driving innovation through R&D, generating millions of jobs, investing in skills and delivering products that make lives better.
“We are delighted to have sponsored this important Make UK award, which shines a light on those manufacturers at the forefront of innovation, who have delivered on bold and dynamic growth strategies.”
Dan Hulme, Head of Sales: Key Accounts at Inspired PLC who sponsor the Energy and Sustainability category, said: “With their extensive supply chains, resource requirements and energy-intensive operations, the manufacturing sector stands at the epicentre in creating a more sustainable future.
“Innovation, resourcefulness and dedication in this space is not only imperative, but commendable. As an ardent advocate for encouraging excellence in manufacturing, I’m honoured to continue my support for the Make UK Manufacturing Awards for a fourth consecutive year.
“At Inspired PLC, we understand the role sustainable practices play in driving societal change. Participating in the judging panel allows us to celebrate sustainable change within the manufacturing industry.”
Simon Farnfield, Event Director at Easyfairs UK which runs Advanced Engineering, sponsors of the Engineering Apprentice category, said: “I found myself inspired by the stories we hear from apprentices. Their talent and innovation are exactly what the industry needs to ensure a prosperous future and secure a competitive advantage in global markets.”
