Mind the Gap: Solving UK Manufacturing’s Skills Shortage

No Metrics, No Momentum: Turning Industrial Strategy into Measurable Progress

In this episode of Industry 2Day, we’re joined by Nick Leeder, CEO of INCIT UK, to explore how the UK measures progress in manufacturing - and why visibility, leadership and collaboration are essential to turning industrial strategy into real-world impact. Nick shares insights on the UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy, the need for neutral and scalable measurement frameworks, and how manufacturers can move from fragmented regional initiatives to full supply chain maturity. This conversation also previews Nick’s upcoming sessions at the National Manufacturing Summit, where he’ll explore industry perceptions of national policy and the role of practical measurement in accelerating transformation. Key Topics Covered * Why the UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy feels fragmented - and what’s missing * The case for a unified, neutral measurement framework across manufacturing sectors * INCIT’s frameworks and how manufacturers can use them to prioritise transformation * Bridging the gap between strategy and implementation on the shop floor * How measurement can drive smarter investment across entire supply chains * Leadership and coaching gaps in manufacturing - and how leaders can become “orchestrators of tomorrow” * Creating a culture of innovation between the boardroom and the shop floor * What Nick hopes to uncover at the National Manufacturing Summit 2026 * One change that could transform the UK’s industrial strategy approach About the Guest Nick Leeder is CEO of INCIT UK and Founder of Nick Leeder & Co., working with manufacturers and policymakers to improve industrial performance, leadership capability and strategic execution through data-driven frameworks and coaching. Catch Nick at the National Manufacturing Summit 2026 at the MTC, Coventry, on Thursday 26th February. Find out more and register to attend for free: https://www.nmsummit.co.uk/ [https://www.nmsummit.co.uk/]

Engineering the Disruption: One Founder’s Fight to Change the Industry

What does it really take to go from apprentice to founder - and disrupt a traditional industry along the way? In this episode of Industry 2Day, we’re joined by Tom Flude, Co-founder of Engineers Insight, to explore his journey into entrepreneurship and how he’s rethinking the way engineers access information, opportunities, and inspiration. Tom shares the real story behind launching a start-up in a highly traditional sector, the challenges of breaking away from legacy trade media models, and why visibility, storytelling, and community are critical to closing the skills gap in engineering. We discuss: * Tom’s journey from engineering apprentice to tech founder * The realities of start-up life - highs, lows, and lessons learned * What it means to be a disruptor in a traditional industry * How Through the Factory is inspiring the next generation * Why modern engineering needs better storytelling and visibility * The role of digital platforms in connecting education, industry, and opportunity * What gives hope for the future of engineering talent 🎧 Listen or watch Industry 2Day wherever you get your podcasts, or visit www.mtcevents.co.uk/industry-2day [http://www.mtcevents.co.uk/industry-2day]

Beyond the Fear: Cyber Security Without the Scare Tactics

Cyber security has become one of the most talked-about risks in manufacturing - but too often, the conversation is driven by fear rather than facts. In this episode of Industry 2Day, we’re joined by Jonathan Sword, Director at Agility Cyber, to break down what cyber security really means for manufacturers today.  From resilience and culture to AI-driven risks and supply chain vulnerabilities, Jonathan shares how businesses can take meaningful, cost-effective action without getting overwhelmed. We discuss: *       Why cyber security matters more than ever - without the panic *       The danger of fear-based messaging in driving inaction *       People, process and culture vs. technology - what really makes the difference? *       How SMEs can strengthen defences without huge budgets *       AI and data: new risks, new opportunities *       Supply chain threats and shared responsibility *       Practical steps manufacturers can take now to build resilience 🎧 Listen or watch Industry 2Day wherever you get your podcasts, or visit www.mtcevents.co.uk/industry-2day [http://www.mtcevents.co.uk/industry-2day]

Mind the Gap: Solving UK Manufacturing’s Skills Shortage

The skills gap in UK manufacturing has been a persistent challenge - but what if the solution lies not in policy, but in people? In this episode of Industry 2Day, we’re joined by Will Bridgman, Managing Director at Warren Services, to explore how proactive and innovative SMEs can lead the way in shaping the future workforce.  From inspiring the next generation through early engagement with schools, to redefining apprenticeships and continuous learning, Will shares his insight into how manufacturers can turn a skills challenge into a competitive advantage. We discuss: * Why the skills gap persists - and what’s needed to fix it * How Warren Services has built a thriving apprenticeship programme * Engaging local schools and inspiring the next generation- * Measuring success in workforce development * How investing in people drives both growth and resilience * Future-proofing manufacturing through a skills-first mindset Explore past episodes of Industry 2Day by visiting www.mtcevents.co.uk/industry-2day [http://www.mtcevents.co.uk/industry-2day]

AI in manufacturing: Time to stop talking and start doing

In this episode of Industry 2Day, we’re joined by Anni Toner, Group CEO of The Data Shack, to explore how manufacturers can move from AI theory to practical action. This conversation provides a clear, grounded, and insight-led look at what it really means to implement AI and digital tools in manufacturing today. We dive into AI trends, share real-world case studies, and explore the human and technical challenges that businesses need to overcome to make meaningful progress. In this episode, Anni discusses: * Where are UK manufacturers on the AI adoption curve? * What are businesses wanting - longer term AI strategy or a quicker ROI? * People vs. tech vs. mindset - what are the biggest barriers to entry facing UK businesses * The Data-Shack’s approach to supporting clients with AI adoption  * Workforce readiness and the STEM skills shortage  * Rhino syndicates: How AI can help for the greater good  * What does ‘good’ look like for AI in a factory setting? * Digital Manufacturing 2Day 2025: what to expect and why you should attend * One piece of advice for businesses moving from AI theory to action Anni is just one of the expert speakers taking to the stage at Digital Manufacturing 2Day at the MTC in Coventry on Wednesday 22nd October. Registration is free - to learn more about the event, visit www.digitalmanufacturing2day.com [http://www.digitalmanufacturing2day.com]. Explore past episodes of Industry 2Day by visiting www.mtcevents.co.uk/industry-2day [http://www.mtcevents.co.uk/industry-2day]