Connecting industry & academia to secure engineers

We’re facing a serious challenge in the engineering sector. By 2030, the UK is expected to have a shortfall of one million engineers. That’s a huge gap in skills, knowledge, and talent that could impact everything from infrastructure projects to manufacturing innovation.

With 20% of the current engineering workforce set to retire in the next five years and tens of thousands of engineering roles already struggling to be filled, there’s never been a more important time to strengthen the pipeline of future talent.

That’s where NAAME comes in. We’re determined to bring industry and academia together to make sure businesses have access to the skills and expertise they need — not just now, but for the long term.

How NAAME is driving value

We’re not just talking about the skills shortage — we’re actively working to solve it. Here’s how:

• Creating connections between industry and academia – We help businesses unlock access to cutting-edge research, MBA and undergraduate projects, and, most importantly, future talent. Whether you’re looking for fresh ideas or new recruits, these partnerships open doors to innovation.

• Helping businesses tap into top-tier expertise and facilities – We connect our members with universities and research centres to use state-of-the-art facilities and world-leading knowledge to develop new products.

• Unlocking funding and knowledge transfer opportunities – We help businesses navigate the complexities of funding and partnerships, making it easier to bring great ideas to life.

• Developing industry-led training programmes – We work with businesses to shape training that delivers exactly what’s needed on the ground, ensuring that future engineers are workplace-ready from day one.

• Signposting career talks and STEM opportunities – We highlight ways for businesses to engage with schools and inspire young people to consider careers in manufacturing and engineering.

• Backing the next generation – We proudly sponsored the Apprentice of the Year – Advanced Level (Level 3) category at the Norfolk Apprenticeship Awards 2025, helping to shine a spotlight on the incredible talent emerging in the region.

What our members are achieving

It’s not just NAAME driving change, our members are putting these ideas into action in incredible ways:

• T-Level Placements – H.F. Bond has seen first-hand how valuable T-Levels can be for finding new talent. Andrew Heffer-Lamond shares:

“T Levels have proven to be such a great talent pipeline to tap into. The initial introductions by NAAME to the relevant FE institutions were invaluable. Also, the support NAAME provides is so very useful.”

• Apprenticeships – Warren Services has long been committed to apprenticeships. Chairman Will Bridgman explains:

“Apprentices are a huge part of Warren, and we have worked tirelessly for over 25 years to develop and provide amazing opportunities for young people in the area. Collectively, these apprentices help aid us and the business, whilst getting hands-on experience in a fast-paced technical environment.”

• Graduate Internships & Industry Partnerships – Delta Fire has seen real success through its partnership with Productivity East, as Jordon King explains:

“NAAME introduced us to Productivity East, leading to a graduate internship that became a full-time role. This connection has not only fostered talent but also enriched Delta Fire’s development by tapping into valuable academic resources and networks.”

National Manufacturing Day – get involved!

One of the best ways to inspire the next generation of engineers is to show them the industry in action. That’s why NAAME is a big supporter of National Manufacturing Day, taking place on 25th September and is led by Make UK.

Last year, 16 NAAME members opened their doors to over 300 students and teachers, giving them a first-hand look at the exciting careers available in manufacturing and engineering. This year, we want to go even bigger!

If you’re interested in taking part, get in touch with James Williamson — we can help connect you with local schools and colleges and even suggest a draft agenda for the day to make it as impactful as possible.

Shaping the future, together.

At NAAME, we believe the best way to tackle the engineering skills shortage is through collaboration. By bringing industry and academia together, supporting members in finding talent, and engaging with the community, we’re making a real difference.

Want to be part of it? Becoming a NAAME member is free. Get in touch to see how you can help inspire and support the next generation of industry talent!