Pupils from Shireland Collegiate Academy in Smethwick and Sandwell Academy in West Bromwich visited A&M to experience how a factory operates and have demonstrations of different manufacturing methods.
A&M provides precision engineering solutions for a range of industries by manufacturing bespoke high-value, low-volume components and tooling. They design, manufacture, assemble and test components for sectors including aerospace, automotive, marine and motorsports and their own UAV propulsion systems.
This was the first National Manufacturing Day, organised by manufacturing trade body Make UK. The aim is to help encourage the workforce of the future to consider the possibilities of a career in manufacturing.
Mark Wingfield, managing director of A&M EDM said: “We were enthusiastic participants in Make UK’s first National Manufacturing Day, to showcase the wonderful opportunities in manufacturing to local schools and inspire students to consider the sector as a career.”
The students were taken on a tour of manufacturing operations by A&M Line Managers, Martyn Brindley and Josh Salt, who both joined the company as apprentices in 2014. This was followed by a discussion with a current apprentice and questions from the students.
Kevin Hull, Head of Design & Technology at Sandwell Academy said, “Today gave students the opportunity to see manufacturing in action, turning abstract ideas into something that can be seen and understood.”
Chris Corkan, regional manager – Midlands & East of England, Make UK said, “We were delighted to support A&M EDM who did a terrific job hosting local schools for the first National Manufacturing Day. It’s through showcasing companies like this that we’ll highlight the great opportunities and careers available in engineering and manufacturing.”
