Challenging Occupational Gender Stereotyping
Women in Engineering and Manufacturing
Contents
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Career Options
Fast Facts
Staff in the Spotlight
Employers in the Spotlight
The National Picture
The North East Picture
Find out more
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Challenging Occupational Gender Stereotyping
Women in Engineering and Manufacturing
Career Options
Types of Careers
The opportunities for engineers, technicians and managers in the fields of engineering and
manufacturing are vast and exciting. Here are just some of the hundreds of career areas
available:
Career Areas
Aerospace and Aviation

Roads/Bridges (Civil/Structural)
Marine/Coastal
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Oil, Gas, Heating, Ventilation
Environmental
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Water
Nuclear
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Electronics
Construction
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Vehicle/Automotive
Offshore
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Design
Energy/Renewables
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Acoustics
Defence
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Ceramics
Health Care
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Glass
ICT
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Chemical
Rail
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Pharmaceutical
Food
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Maintenance/repair/servicing
Clothing, textiles and fashion
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Media and broadcasting
Research and development
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Mechatronics
Plastics
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Quality Control
Security
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Telecommunications
Printing
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Electrical
Genetics
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Agriculture/Forestry
Biological, biosciences, biomedical
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Mining
Materials science
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Mechanical
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What employers are looking for
Employers may be looking for people who:
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are good at maths and science
have a talent for design
have good ICT skills
are able to read and extract information
enjoy analysing information and solving problems
have good planning and organising skills
understand and follow health and safety requirements
have good “people” skills
can manage a budget
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Challenging Occupational Gender Stereotyping
Women in Engineering and Manufacturing
Things to consider
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Shift working
You may be expected to travel with work to undertake training or visit clients
IT and digital skills are particularly important
Work-based routes
Traineeships
Traineeships are available to young people aged 16-23 years old, who do not have formal work
experience or a level 2 qualification. The traineeship will last between 6 weeks and 6 months.
Through work experience individuals can develop skills to help them apply for an apprenticeship
or move into work. English and maths must be studied if you don’t have GCSE/ level 2
qualifications in these subjects. On completion of the traineeship you’d achieve a Traineeship
Completion Certificate. http://www.apprenticeships.org.uk/employers/traineeships.aspx
Apprenticeships
According to SEMTA, there are 10,000 engineering and manufacturing employers offering
apprenticeships across the UK. Apprenticeships are available to anyone aged 16 years or
above. There is no upper age limit for apprenticeships – you just need to be a resident in
England and not taking part in full-time education. There are 3 types of apprenticeships –
Intermediate (level 2), Advanced (level 3) and Higher (level 4+). For details on Engineering and
Manufacturing apprenticeships visit: http://www.apprenticeships.org.uk/types-ofapprenticeships/engineering-and-manufacturing-technologies.aspx
Example - Intermediate Apprenticeship in Ceramics Manufacturing
Although the gender mix of the workforce is evenly split between male and female,
traditionally the more senior management positions in the Ceramics industry have been
male dominated but this is gradually changing and more women are achieving good career
progression within the industry. The Apprenticeship includes completion of the Ceramics
Manufacturing NVQ Level 2 Diploma.
Jobs include:
Robot operator (Robotics are used in many different processes in the Ceramics industry)
Hand decorator (Paints on decoration prior to an item being hardened or fired)
Grinder/Polisher (Grinds or polishes off imperfections on ceramics)
Lithographer (Applies lithographs to ceramic ware before firing)
Modeller (The modeller is a skilled artist and designer who makes clay models)
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Challenging Occupational Gender Stereotyping
Women in Engineering and Manufacturing
Example – Higher Apprenticeship in the Water Industry
The water industry is made up of the regulated water utility companies, non-regulated
subsidiary water utility companies (i.e. involved in construction, engineering, consultancy,
etc) and the supply chain. 139,500 people work in the water industry in England; of
these, 28,500 people are employed by the regulated water companies and utilities. The
industry is facing an ageing workforce. Females constitute 28% of the workforce
compared to the 43% UK average.
Most employers will look for applicants who have gained 3-5 GCSEs at grade C or above
in English, maths and a science subject. The apprenticeship includes completion of the
CABWI Level 4 Diploma In Utilities Network Planning and Management, and HNC Water
Operations.
Jobs include:
Network Manager (Responsibility for daily operations of the water or sewerage network)
Leakage Manager (Managing leakage control activities on the water distribution network)
Design Technician (Work with senior engineers on the design of assets)
Flood Risk Consultant (Undertaking risk assessments, drainage strategies and design)
Process Engineer (Sampling, design, analysis, creating technical solutions)
Academic routes
College and University
Engineering courses can be taken at college and university including BTEC/ HNC/ HNDs,
foundation degrees and degree qualifications; a list of courses can be found on local college
websites, as well as the following websites: Institute of Engineering & Technology
(http://www.theiet.org/) and UCAS (http://www.ucas.com/)
Some Apprenticeships attract UCAS points, giving you the opportunity to go on to higher
education in a College or University.
SEMTA has produced a Graduate Development Toolkit with guidance on placements and career
planning (http://www.semta.org.uk/careers/graduate-opportunities)
Professional Development
Qualified and experienced engineers and manufacturing professionals are highly sought after.
Expertise is valued by employers, as is the ability to keep up to date with the latest developments
in the sector. Further information on CPD is available at: http://www.semta.org.uk/careers/postgraduate
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Challenging Occupational Gender Stereotyping
Women in Engineering and Manufacturing
Fast Facts

Dame Caroline Haslet was the first woman appointed to the Insitute of Electrical
Engineers post second World War. She worked to ensure standardisation of plugs and
sockets across homes to increase electrical safety

Verena Holmes was the first women member of the Institute of Mechanical Engineers
due to her work across the marine, diesel, locomotion and internal combustion engines

21% of the science, engineering and manufacturing workforce is female (1)

354,000 workers will be required to replace employees retiring between 2010 – 2016
from the science, manufacturing and engineering sector in the UK (1)

Graduates with first degrees in engineering and technology on average earn £28,500
within 3 years of graduation(2)

The UK is the world’s sixth largest exporter of goods(3)

There are around 170,000 manufacturing companies in the UK employing about 4
million workers(3)
References
(1)
Sector Skills Assessment for Science, Engineering & Manufacturing Technologies December 2010
(2)
Perkins Review 2013
(3)
Working in Manufacturing, VT Group
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Challenging Occupational Gender Stereotyping
Women in Engineering and Manufacturing
Staff in the Spotlight
Rosie Jones
Senior Engineer
Engineering welcomes
women
Despite being asked by her physics teacher at school “Why would you want to do engineering?”
Rosie Jones from Gateshead enjoyed science subjects so much she was determined to study
mechanical engineering at University.
Rosie explained: “My cousin is an engineer and he inspired me to work in the industry. Both of
my parents are vets, and when my mother studied at Uni she was one of only 5 women in a
class of 42 students. This reinforced my belief that women can undertake and succeed in any
career they choose”.
During her degree, Rosie decided to specialise in building services engineering for the
construction industry. Whilst only 20% of the students in Rosie’s degree year were female, she
has found that the industry welcomes women, and she has not faced any discrimination due to
her gender. She told us: “I feel people in the industry judge you on your ability, not your
gender. If you are professional and work hard you will be rewarded with respect and a
successful career”.
Rosie started her working life with car maker Ford then moved to Max Fordham, a 180-strong
building and environmental engineering company that nurtured her passion to reduce the carbon
footprint of buildings through excellent design.
Living in the North East, Rosie now works for a London based consultancy, Skelly and Couch.
Combining her career with caring for her two young children, Rosie works from home supporting
the Head Office, helping new graduates and undertaking design work. To encourage more
women to consider engineering as a career, Rosie explained:
“If you enjoy STEM subjects, are logical and have common sense, then you should really
consider a career in engineering. You can be rewarded with good pay, and a lifelong career
filled with opportunities to work anywhere in the world.”
“Women shouldn’t be intimidated by the stereotyped idea that might exist of a ‘female engineer’.
It’s a progressive sector which welcomes women, and provides excellent opportunities”.
Skelly and Couch
Skelly & Couch is a leading firm of building environment and services engineering consultants
http://www.skellyandcouch.com/?recruitment
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Challenging Occupational Gender Stereotyping
Women in Engineering and Manufacturing
Jan Lawson
Outbound Logistics Manager
A great range of jobs in
manufacturing and
logistics
Jan Lawson from County Durham works for Parker Domnick Hunter, specialists in the design and
manufacture of compressed air and gas generation products used in many different industries
around the world.
Jan told us: “I am the Outbound Logistics Manager responsible for the dispatch of all
manufactured goods from our site in Gateshead. I manage a team of 13 people, shipping 6,000
lines of goods across the world. I’ve worked for Parker Domnick Hunter for 14 years, I’m never
bored, I never leave on time, and I find the work really enjoyable and challenging”.
Having previously worked in the leisure and hospitality sector, Jan began working in the logistics
industry as a radio operator for TNT in the 1980s, progressing through to Traffic Supervisor and
Shift Manager.
Shift work also helped Jan to manage the childcare arrangements for her daughter. She added:
“It was difficult being the only female in a totally male environment, but I was determined to prove
I could do the job regardless of my gender.”
Jan explained that she has never suffered discrimination as a woman. “I was prepared to work
hard and take on more responsibility and was rewarded for this by achieving promotions and
progression.
Manufacturing is a constantly evolving industry and would suit anyone who is able to focus on
achieving goals. I’d recommend the logistics and manufacturing sector to all women – it provides
a great range of diverse jobs with good rates of pay and flexible hours”.
Parker Hannifin Corporation
The company employs approximately 58,000 people in 49 countries around the world.
http://www.parker.com/portal/site/PARKER/menuitem.e631b67dc0285c0566b049e1237ad1ca/?v
gnextoid=243880961f66e010VgnVCM1000000308a8c0RCRD&vgnextfmt=EN
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Challenging Occupational Gender Stereotyping
Women in Engineering and Manufacturing
Caroline Thomson
Technical Development Manager
The need for qualified
environmental
specialists will increase
When Caroline from Stockton-on-Tees was just 12 years old she wrote an article for her school
magazine about greenhouse gases, and her interest in all things environmental has never
stopped since.
As Technical Development Manager (Environmental) for SSI UK Ltd on Teesside, her role is to
steer the company towards compliance with future legislation and evaluating technical
developments. She also gets involved in plant upgrades, redesigns and new builds. Caroline
explained: “I work days but the hours are flexible enough to allow me to keep my childcare
costs as low as possible. My husband and I take a roughly equal share of the responsibility for
dropping off and collecting our kids.
I hope to remain in an environmental role for the rest of my career. What I’d like to do is to
make the public’s opinion of the iron and steel industry change from that of an ‘old fashioned
industry that pollutes the environment’ to a sustainable, energy efficient, job creating industry
that they are proud to be associated with.”
Caroline spent 14 years working in the laboratories for a fine chemicals manufacturer as a
technician, analyst and team leader. As a shift laboratory worker, she studied part-time for a
degree in Environmental Management. After a period of maternity leave Caroline returned to
work as an environmental officer, during which time she gained an IEMA Diploma in
Environmental Management.
Caroline has worked in a male dominated sector for many years and tells us: “I don’t feel
worried or pressured by being in the minority because for me this has been the norm my entire
working life. I often experienced men altering their behaviour in my presence – which was nice
but not necessary!
I think industry nowadays shows a good mix of males and females in positions such as mine.
The world is starting to realise that environmental issues aren’t going to go away, so I see the
sector as growing and the need for environmental specialists is increasing”.
Sahaviriya Steel Industries UK (SSI UK)
With over 1800 employees working at their site at Redcar on Teesside, SSI’s ambition is to be a
world class steel producer and maintain a tradition and reputation for high class steelmaking
which stretches back over 160 years.
http://www.ssi-steel.co.uk/careers#.UyhFIH_hQ40
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Challenging Occupational Gender Stereotyping
Women in Engineering and Manufacturing
Sarah Joplin
Civil Engineer
Building career
foundations
Sarah who graduated from Teesside University with a BEng (Hons) Civil Engineering in 2012,
works as a civil engineer for Owen Pugh Construction.
Sarah, 23, of Newby, near Middlesbrough, said: 'During my time at Teesside I did many
modules which helped prepare me for my work - building technology, structural mechanics,
geotechnology, civil engineering analysis and design, and water infrastructure.
'At the moment I’m working at Gibside near Rowlands Gill where I’m constructing two new car
parks and an elevated walkway to make it easier for visitors to access the grounds.
'In terms of my day-to-day duties I’m responsible for setting out of the various components that
build up the car parks and walkways at Gibside. Other important roles include managing health
and safety, and carrying out site inductions and risk assessments.'
Sarah said she chose Teesside University initially as it was 'close to home' which meant she
could continue a part-time job and stay close to family and friends.
http://www.tees.ac.uk/sections/news/pressreleases_story.cfm?story_id=4457&this_issue_title=O
ctober%202013&this_issue=245
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Challenging Occupational Gender Stereotyping
Women in Engineering and Manufacturing
Ashleigh Reed
Piping Designer
Forging a career in
engineering
Ashleigh, 25, who lives in Guisborough, currently works as a piping designer for K Home
International in Thornaby. She graduated from Teesside University with a degree in
Mechanical Engineering. Her job involves designing piping systems for industrial applications.
Ashleigh said:
“I think it is still a male dominated job, but more women have started doing it now. I’m the only
female in the piping department, but there are a few other female designers/engineers working
for the company in other departments.”
She added: “I chose Teesside University for the degree as I’m local and was keen to stay in
this area. I was a part-time student sponsored by K Home International throughout my time on
the course, which was completed day release.
I began the degree half way through an apprenticeship, after completing a two year part-time
HNC at Hartlepool Further Education College. I enjoyed furthering my engineering knowledge
during the degree, as well as having the opportunity to study situations I had not yet come
across at work.
I would recommend studying engineering at Teesside to any prospective students, as it
provides plenty of opportunity to those who are prepared to work hard.”
http://www.tees.ac.uk/sections/news/pressreleases_story.cfm?story_id=4184&this_issue_title=
November%202012&this_issue=234
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Women in Engineering and Manufacturing
Employers in the Spotlight
Ford Aerospace
East Side, Tyne Dock, South Shields, NE33 5ST
At Ford Aerospace we specialise in the manufacture of components and assemblies for the
aerospace and defence industries. We pride ourselves on the global reputation we have built
since we were established in 1910. Our reputation is based on high levels of service,
performance and quality. To drive the business forward our company invests heavily in new
technology with over £1 million spent in the last 2 years on CNC machining and laser cutting
technology. This investment will help the business to achieve its 5 year growth plan. From
2015 Ford will also be home to the second only HAAS Training Centre in the UK providing
CNC training to operators.
In addition to new technology we also invest heavily in our workforce and nurture new talent.
As a business we are working in partnership with South Tyneside College and have
established a new Engineering Academy.
The Academy provides a route into engineering through a traineeship. Students attend the
Academy to learn basic engineering skills and on completion of their training they undertake a
six week work placement. Eleven students completed the first cohort of training (including two
women) and all of the students secured employment or advanced apprenticeships within
engineering and manufacturing. “The Academy will ensure we have home grown skills for our
company, our supply chain and even our competitors. At Ford we are now working with
SEMTA (the engineering sector skills council) to roll out the Academy to ensure the UK can
benefit from best practice developed in the region”, explained Geoff Ford, Chairman.
Ford welcomes talent and always recruits new staff based on attitude, skills and knowledge.
They believe that attitude is the most important attribute, because without a good, positive
approach to work, skills and knowledge cannot be developed.
Geoff explained: “We always recruit the best person for the job with talent promoted throughout
the business. Women are represented on the Board of Directors, half of the senior
management team are female and 25% of the workforce is female.”
Ford encourages women to enter the industry and values women with transferable skills. One
success story is Alison who began her career with Ford as Canteen Manager. Following a
successful interview, she transferred to working on the shop floor as a trainee Quality
Controller. Geoff told us: “Alison has excelled in her role and is a potential future team leader”.
For information on careers with Ford Aerospace visit: http://www.ford-aerospace.com/careers
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Ebac
Ketton Way, Aycliffe Industrial Park, Newton Aycliffe, DL5 6SQ
At Ebac we pride ourselves in quality and innovation in manufacturing. Established in 1972 to
manufacture dehumidifiers and watercoolers, the company now employs over 200 staff, 30% of
whom are women. Half of the workforce is employed in logistics, IT and product development
and half in production roles.
The best person is always recruited for the job. Women tend to dominate the light assembly
production roles due to their dexterity.
At Ebac we always recruit for attitude and train for skills. We recruit through Jobcentre Plus
and other jobsites, and look for individuals who will innovate and can start adding value
quickly.
Over the coming year the number of employees is set to double. We have a 3-year growth
plan involving the production of domestic chest freezers under the Norfrost brand and the
manufacture of domestic washing machines.
Pamela Petty is the Managing Director of Ebac and began her career in the accounts
department of a commercial laundry through a Youth Training Scheme (YTS).
Pamela explained: “Through my YTS I developed a love for accounts which I thought was my
vocation. I secured a position in the accounts department at Ebac and was inspired by
colleagues who had a wealth of knowledge. I have a naturally inquisitive nature and I
recommended and implemented a new payroll system for the company. At this time IT was
becoming increasingly used throughout the business and I then implemented new IT systems
across all departments as well as a computerised stock system.
“I later secured a Manufacturing Director position and although I find product development
interesting I have a passion for developing new ways of working driving efficiencies through
systems. This is the aspect of manufacturing I greatly enjoy - the challenge of driving
efficiency whilst maintaining quality and satisfying the needs of our customers”.
http://www.ebac.com/
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Women in Engineering and Manufacturing
J Barbour & Sons Ltd
Barbour House, Bede Industrial Estate, Jarrow, NE32 3EG
Barbour was established in South Shields in 1894 and is celebrating 120 years in business this
year.
At Barbour we are very proud of our heritage and have developed into an iconic British brand.
Our products are exported internationally and we have stores located throughout the world
including Chicago, New York and in Belgium.
Of our 680 UK-based employees, 439 are women. We’re aiming to increase our head count as
the company expands into new markets. As a business that nurtures talent we give employees
the opportunity to have lifelong, rewarding careers.
We are also passionate about bringing young people into the business and currently employ
nine young people as Apprentices. We are also keen to employ local talent and previously held
a recruitment fair in 2013 at South Shields Town Hall.
As Barbour is essentially an outdoors brand, our clothing not only has to look good but must
also keep the wearer comfortable and dry. Because of our focus on quality we tend to promote
from within. For example employees in our design and fabric technology departments have
previously worked on the shop floor in garment manufacture. They have an excellent
understanding of how fabrics and materials work and have essential knowledge of how to
construct a garment. This means that we never lose sight of the production process and the
customer.
Here at South Shields we design, manufacture, store and distribute throughout the world. Our
staff members have the opportunity to work across a range of departments. One example is an
employee working in our warehousing team who was passionate about establishing new IT
systems for the warehouse, and later secured a job within our IT department.
We are working hard to dispel many misconceptions about manufacturing and the textiles
industry. All our staff members are highly trained and highly skilled, and produce internationally
sought after goods.
Brenda Readman-Bell has worked at Barbour for 10 years and is responsible for finance and IT
throughout the UK, America and Germany. She explained: “As a woman I feel you can excel in
your chosen career, and like any working mother I have to balance my commitments. At
Barbour we invest in our staff and give them the opportunity to develop a career within an
international fashion brand and manufacturer”.
http://www.barbour.com/careers
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SCM Pharma
Regents Drive, Prudhoe, Northumberland, NE42 6PX
In 2004, Fiona Cruickshank OBE established SCM Pharma - a pharmaceutical manufacturer
specialising in producing novel, difficult and dangerous drug products.
The business manufacturers and develops products using cutting edge technology to provide
sterile manufacturing, aseptic processing, filling and packaging services. They often work on
products from the initial development stages through to clinical trials and final production.
The company is now led by Dianne Sharp, who joined SCM Pharma in 2010 and has over 20
years’ experience in manufacturing and senior management positions.
Dianne told us: “I find it fascinating that through innovation, ingenuity and hard work, raw
materials and components are turned into high value, life-changing products through
engineering and manufacturing. At SCM Pharma the end user - the patient - is never forgotten.
The impact that our products can have to enhance, save, prolong and increase their quality of
life is hugely exciting and rewarding.
“Our company welcomes diversity throughout the workforce. 39% of our employees are female.
We recruit based on attitude and we train our staff to develop the required skill levels and
knowledge.
“I have never faced any barriers as a woman in the manufacturing industry. My attitude is to
work hard and seek out new opportunities and these are the same characteristics we seek when
recruiting staff”.
SCM Pharma is making increasing use of social media (including LinkedIn) to promote job
vacancies, along with their own website, and with local Universities.
Dianne explained: “At SCM Pharma we employ chemists, microbiologists and a range of
qualified people working throughout the business. Graduates make up just over half of our
workforce. A degree is not always essential. We welcome applications from people who have a
passion for science and who are committed to their own career development and continual
learning.”
http://www.scmpharma.com/recruitment.html
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Women in Engineering and Manufacturing
The National Picture
Overview

Engineering and manufacturing are vitally important to the UK economy in a wide range
of sectors and disciplines

The UK aerospace sector is the number one aerospace industry in Europe and globally
second only to the U.S. (1)

The UK is the fourth largest vehicle producer in Europe, making 1.6 million vehicles in
2012 (1)

The manufacturing sector employs around 2.5 million people across the UK (2)

Since the recession, growth in manufacturing has been three times that of the rest of the
economy (2)

The UK is the ninth largest manufacturer in the world (2)

Manufacturing accounts for 46% of UK exports (2)

Average earnings in manufacturing are higher than those in the economy as a whole (2)

The government estimates that the low carbon economy is worth £112bn, already
employing almost 1 million people (2)

Women make up only 9% of UK engineering professionals compared to 30% in Latvia,
26% in Bulgaria and Sweden, 20% in Portugal and Italy, and 18% in Spain. This
continuing lack of female engineers is a major barrier to tackling skills shortages in the
UK (3)
The Future
“Engineers are the people who can create practical solutions to our 21st Century challenges of
sustainability, housing and an ageing population. And we need more of them”
(Sir James Dyson).

In order to fulfil growth projections the sector needs to attract more people to work across
all industries

Only 9% of employees in the sector in the UK are under 24 years of age. As workers
retire there will be insufficient workers to fill their job roles (5)

It is estimated that between 2012 and 2020, the UK economy will require 830,000
professional scientists, engineers and technologists, largely to replace those leaving
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engineering practice e.g. through retirement. This equates to over 100,000 new
professionals each year (5)

It is expected that there will be an increased demand for engineers in Additive
Manufacturing (aka 3-D printing) (4)

Only 60% of current engineering professionals are educated to degree level. There are
multiple pathways into engineering (5)

The growth areas in engineering and manufacturing are expected to include
environmental solutions, security systems, aerospace, automotive, plastic electronic
technologies and composite materials, and the subsea industry (1) (7)

Due to the growth projections the engineering sector is predicted to have 2.74 million job
openings between 2010 and 2020 (7)

Graduates in engineering and technology on average earn £28,500 three years after
graduation (3)
Policy Context
In 2013 the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills announced a number of
measures to address the shortage of engineers including:




£30 million fund for employers to address skills shortages
£250,000 of seed funding to help Tomorrow’s Engineers accelerate the nationwide roll-out
of its employer engagement programme aimed at encouraging school children to consider
engineering careers
£40,000 to the Daphne Jackson Trust to develop a new fellowship to support people
returning to professional engineering jobs after a career break
£400 million STEM teaching capital fund to tackle diversity challenges facing the
engineering industry.
WISE has released a free-to-download booklet which provides practical advice on specific action
University Technical Colleges (UTCs) can take to attract more girls.
http://www.wisecampaign.org.uk/news/2014/03/new-booklet-to-help-promote-diversity-inengineering
Professor John Perkins Review of Engineering Skills
https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/254885/bis-131269-professor-john-perkins-review-of-engineering-skills.pdf
Britain’s Got Talented Engineers - Successful Women in Engineering: A Careers Research Study
http://www.atkinsglobal.com/~/media/Files/A/Atkins-Global/Attachments/corporate/about-us/ourpublications/Atkins_Britains%20got%20talented%20female%20engineers.pdf
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Engineering UK 2014: The State of Engineering. Registration required to download the report.
http://www.engineeringuk.com/About_us/
Sector Skills Council
SEMTA
http://www.semta.org.uk/
References
(1)
UKCES Technology and Skills in the Aerospace and Automotive Industries 2013
(2)
eef.org.uk
(3)
Perkins Review 2013
(4)
Semta Sector Skills Council
(5)
Royal Academy of Engineering “Jobs and Growth” report
(6)
Tomorrows Engineer 2013
(7)
Working Futures 2010-2020
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The North East Picture
Outlook

It’s estimated that by 2016, 8,500 new workers will be needed across all jobs in the
engineering sector in the North East (1)

In 2014 it is expected that
- 2,300 people will be required at NVQ level 2
- 2,700 people required at NVQ level 3
- 2,700 at NVQ level 4
- 650 people required at level 5 and above (4)

Engineering skills will be needed in sectors including low carbon technologies,
advanced manufacturing and renewable energy

28% of North East engineering firms report skills gaps (3)

The engineering and manufacturing sector employs an ageing workforce with 16% aged
55 years or over (3)

The North East Local Enterprise Partnership (NELEP) intends to increase
Apprenticeships from 2,000 to 4,000 in advanced manufacturing, engineering and low
carbon technologies (2)

The NELEP says:
“Manufacturing jobs are precious; manufacturing jobs are typically higher paid and skilled
and contribute to local supply chains, and are crucial to the North East’s exporting base.
Although the long term employment trend is a challenge, maintaining high employment
levels in manufacturing through a combination of innovation and exporting is central to the
prosperity of the LEP area.” (2)

Sunderland City Council and South Tyneside Council are looking to turn the former Vaux
Brewery site into a National Advanced Manufacturing Park to boost manufacturing

The North East has Enterprise Zones in three cluster areas:
-
A19 adjacent to Nissan (known as the A19 Ultra Low Carbon Vehicle Corridor)
Land adjacent to the North Bank of the Tyne and the Port of Tyne (to encourage
marine manufacturing)
Land adjacent to the Port of Blyth (to service the offshore wind and renewable
sector)
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
NetPark in Sedgefield specialises in hosting science, engineering and technology
industries

Advanced manufacturing hubs at Peterlee and Newton Aycliffe are part of the National
Catapult Centre to stimulate High Value Manufacturing through investment in innovation.
Hitachi has chosen to locate at the hub at Newton Aycliffe

Hitachi will manufacture 596 railway carriages over the next 25 years with production
beginning in 2015. This is expected to create 500 jobs plus supply chain opportunities
throughout County Durham and the rest of the region

In June 2013, over 9% of the total North East workforce were employed in
manufacturing, supporting 112,000 jobs (5)

With 53,000 employees, the subsea sector is worth almost £9bn nationally – and the UK
dominates the global market. £400 million of subsea output is generated in the North
East, with the regional access to North Sea oil and gas reserves as well as many sites for
renewable energy generation. The sector involves the exploration of energy reserves
which are offshore (7)

In 2011/12, foreign direct investment accounted for 16% of all advanced engineering
jobs created/safeguarded in the North East (2)

Energy Services company Future Energy Solutions Ltd, in partnership with Nutech Ltd,
plans to create opportunities for around 2,000 trained engineers over the next five years.
Based on the Armstrong Industrial Estate, Invincible Drive, Newcastle, the 6,000 sq ft
centre is the first of its kind in the North East and will see around 400 students receive
smart meter installation training each year. Existing, qualified meter engineers will also
be able to upskill to install the smart meter technology (6)

33% of pharmaeuticals produced in the UK are manufactured in the North East

The North East is home to 58% of the total UK petrochemical industry
Employers
90% of engineering establishments in the North East employ less than 50 people
(1)
Here are just some of the key engineering and manufacturing employers in the region.
North of the Region
Company
Description
AAF Ltd
Aesica Pharmaceuticals Ltd
AkzoNobe
Allan Brothers
AAF Ltd
Cramlington. 250+ staff. Ventilation equipment.
Newcastle. 1000+ staff. Pharmaceuticals.
Ashington. Paints and coatings production.
Berwick. Timber window and door manufacture.
Cramlington. Air purification systems.
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British Engines Ltd
Newcastle. 1000+ staff. Engineering.
CAV Aerospace
Consett. 400+ staff. Aerospace services.
Cramlington Precision Forge Ltd Cramlington. Manufacture components for commercial
vehicle sector.
Draeger Safety UK Ltd
Blyth. 400 staff, Design and manufacture of safety
equipment.
EGGER UK Ltd
Hexham. 500 employees, chipboard manufacture.
Entek International
Killingworth. 100+ staff. Battery separators.
Formica Ltd
North Shields. 400+ staff. Design/manufacture of
laminates.
IHC Engineering Business Ltd
Stockfield & South Shields. Offshore engineering
solutions.
Intersnack Ltd
Stanley. 300+ staff. Snack manufacture.
Jackel International UK Ltd
(TommeeTippee), Cramlington. Baby products.
Kilfrost Ltd
Haltwhistle & Newcastle. 90+ staff. De/anti-icing
technology.
McQuay (UK) Ltd
Cramlington. Engineer and manufacture air handling
products.
OGN Group
Wallsend. 550+ staff. Offshore wind fabrication.
Parsons Brinckerhoff Ltd
Newcastle. 1000+ staff. Engineering solutions.
Pii Group Ltd
Cramlington. 500+ staff. Pipeline maintenance.
Piramal Healthcare UK Ltd
Morpeth. 400+ employees. Pharmaceuticals.
Precision Hydraulic Cylinders
Cramlington. Cylinder design and manufacture.
UK
Reece Group
Walker, Newcastle. 300+ staff. Engineering in defence,
subsea, construction, oil and gas sectors.
Renolit Cramlington Ltd
Cramlington. 200+ staff. Manufacture of plastic films.
Renown Engineering Ltd
Cramlington. Fabrication, welding, assembly, laser
profiling, painting/coating.
Rolls-Royce
(Newcastle - marine engines) (Sunderland - engine
manufacture)
SCA Hygiene Products UK Ltd
Prudhoe. Tissue production.
SCM Pharma
Prudhoe and Newburn. Specialist development and
pharmaceutical contract drug manufacturing.
Shasun Pharma Solutions Ltd
Cramlington. 250+ staff. Pharmaceuticals.
SMD Ltd
Wallsend. 300+ staff. Subsea vehicles.
Tharsus Group
Blyth and Hebburn. Sheet metal and specialist
engineering.
Thermacore Europe Ltd
Ashington. Thermal management solutions.
Welwyn Components
Bedlington. 200+ staff. Manufacture of resistors and
microelectronic assemblies.
South of the Region
A&P Group Ltd
Air Products
Hebburn. 800+ staff. Oil, gas, subsea, marine
fabrication.
Teesside. Design and manufacture of products for the
process/chemical industry.
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Aycliffe Fabrications
BAE Systems
Bignall Lubritec Ltd
BLS Electronics Ltd
CA Group Holdings
CA Pumps Ltd
Caterpillar
Cordell Group
Crabco Ltd
Cummins UK
Darchem Engineering
Deepocean 1 UK Ltd
Doby Verrolec
DPE Automotive Ltd
Dupont Teijin Films UK Ltd
Ebac Group Ltd
Ensus
Esco (UK) Ltd
Faltec Ltd
Ford Aerospace
Fujifilm Diosynth
Biotechnologies UK Ltd
Gestamp Tallent Ltd
GlaxoSmithKline,
Grundfos Manufacturing Ltd,
Hashimoto Ltd,
Heerema Fabrication Group,
Hertel (UK) Ltd
Husqvarna UK Ltd
IVM Ltd
Izumi Products UK Ltd
J Barbour & Sons
Newton Aycliffe. Steel and aluminium fabrication
specialists.
Washington. Manufacture of shell bodies and warheads.
Shildon. (Shildon Manufacturing Company). Precision
engineering and lubrication systems.
Annfield Plan, Co Durham. Specialist manufacturers of
electric transformers.
Durham. 150+ staff. Metal roof manufacture.
Hartlepool. Pump fabrication and repair.
Peterlee. Truck manufacture.
Teesside. 600+ staff. Engineering design, manufacture
and construction.
Gateshead. 200+ staff. Metal press manufacture.
Darlington. 700 employees. Manufacture of diesel
engines.
Stockton. 800+ staff. Insulation systems.
Darlington. 100+ staff. Subsea trenching.
Stanley. Largest manufacturer of ductwork and jointing
systems in the UK
Newton Aycliffe. First tier supplier to the automotive
industry.
Wilton. 300+ staff. Polyester film manufacture.
Newton Aycliffe. Global leader in the manufacture of
white goods.
Wilton Teesside. 100 staff. Bioethanol production.
Guisborough. 250+ staff. Medical/pharmaceutical
equipment
Boldon Colliery. 300+ staff. Autoparts manufacture.
South Shields. Engineering and manufacture of
components for aerospace and defence industries.
Stockton. 400+ staff. Pharmeceuticals.
Washington (@ Nissan) & Newton Aycliffe. 100+ staff.
Design, developer and manufacturer of parts for the
automotive industry.
Barnard Castle. Pharmaceutical manufacturer.
Sunderland. 150+ staff. Pumps manufacturing.
Boldon Colliery. Car component manufacturing.
Hartlepool. 200+ staff. Offshore engineering.
Middlesbrough. 1000+ staff. Thermal insulation, oil
refinery maintenance.
Newton Aycliffe. 500+ staff. Manufacturers of power
products including trimmers and lawnmowers.
Co Durham. Injection moulding specialists.
Bishop Auckland. Manufacture of hydraulic compression
tools and pumps.
Jarrow. 700+ staff. Clothing manufacturer.
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Kobusch UK Ltd
Komatsu UK Ltd
Kromek Group plc
Liebherr Sunderland Works Ltd
NIFCO UK Ltd
Nissan Motor Manufacturing Ltd
Quorn Foods
Robinson Engineering
RS Vents Ltd
R-TEK Ltd
Sabic UK Petrochemicals Ltd
Sahaviriya Steel Industries UK
Ltd
Sembcorp Utilities (UK) Ltd
SK Chilled Foods Ltd
Smith Electrical Vehicles
Spartan UK
Stadium Group PLC
Tanfield Group PLC
Thorn Lighting Ltd
Tolent Construction
Unipres (UK) Ltd
Wilton Engineering Ltd
Stanley. 300+ staff. Plastic products, packaging
Birtley. Manufacture of construction equipment
Sedgefield. 60 employees, radiation detection and x-ray
imaging technology.
Sunderland. 150+ staff. Crane manufacturer.
Eaglescliffe. 300+ staff. Autoparts manufacture.
Washington. 5000+ employees. Car manufacturing,
engineering, maintenance.
Middlesbrough. 600+ staff. Food manufacturing.
Newton Aycliffe. Steel fabrication and laser cutting
specialist.
Washington. Manufacture of commercial vents and
extraction systems
Washington. 600+ staff. Car parts manufacture.
Wilton. 700+ staff. Hydrocarbon products.
Redcar. 1700+ employees. Iron and steel manufacturer.
Middlesbrough. 350+ staff. Powerstation.
Middlesbrough. 500+ staff. Ready meals manufacturer
Washington. Manufacture of zero-emission electric
vehicles.
Gateshead. 100+ staff. Metal processing.
Hartlepool. 800+ staff. Electronic technologies provider.
Washington. 500+ staff. Electric vehicle manufacture.
Spennymoor. 700+ staff. Electrical manufacturer.
Gateshead. 400+ staff. Civil Engineering.
Washington. 900+ staff. Motor parts manufacturer.
Middlesbrough. 350+ staff. Engineering services.
References
(1)
SEMTA
(2)
NELEP Independent Economic Review 2013
(3)
UKCES Working Futures 2010-2020
(4)
SEMTA Skills and the Future of Advanced Manufacturing 2009
(5)
NOMIS
(6)
Journal Feb-2014
(7)
Subsea UK (www.subseauk.com)
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Women in Engineering and Manufacturing
Find Out More
National Careers Service
Information, advice and guidance about careers
W: https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk/Pages/Home.aspx
T: 0800 100 900
SEMTA
The UK Sector Skills Council for Science, Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies
W: www.semta.org.uk
T: 0845 643 9001
A link highlighting three female employees of BAE Systems attending the Skills Show 2013, great
advocates of women in engineering:
W: http://www.semta.org.uk/skillsshow-BAE-girls
WISE Campaign
Promotes female talent in science, technology and engineering
W: www.wisecampaign.org.uk
Tomorrow's Engineers
Resources for young people to help them consider a career in engineering
W: www.tomorrowsengineers.org.uk
T: 020 3206 0400 E: careers@engineeringuk.com
Institution of Engineering and Technology
The IET Women’s Network aims to support women throughout their engineering career
W: www.theiet.org
T: 01438 313 311
Engineering Council
The Council is the regulatory body for the engineering profession in the UK
W: http://www.engc.org.uk/
Careers in Industry
Helps you explore Apprenticeships in science, engineering or manufacturing
W: http://www.careersinindustry.co.uk/
Women’s Engineering Society
Aims to inspire women to become engineers, scientists and technical leaders
W: www.wes.org.uk
STEM Ambassador Programme
A network of ambassadors who promote STEM careers
W: www.stemnet.org.uk/ambassadors
Inspiring the Future
Volunteers talk about their careers to pupils in schools and colleges
W: http://www.inspiringthefuture.org/about/inspiring-women-campaign.aspx
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Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB)
National training provider and awarding body for the engineering construction sector. Info on 170
different types of jobs in the sector
W: http://careers.ecitb.org.uk/
Rolls-Royce North East Training Centre
Offers engineering Apprenticeships at level 2 and level 3
W: http://www.rrnetc.co.uk/
T: 0191 2565385
Women in Science, Engineering and Technology
Aims to widen the participation of under-represented groups in STEM
W: http://www.wiset.org.uk
STEM Careers
Digital toolkit for students and teachers
W: http://www.wherestemcantakeyou.co.uk/index.html
Institute of Physics
Girls in physics information
W: http://www.iop.org/resources/videos/people-and-events/gip/page_58728.html
EngineeringUK
Promotes engineers, engineering and technology by raising public awareness
W: http://www.engineeringuk.com/
Royal Academy of Engineering
Promoting excellence in engineering
W: http://www.raeng.org.uk
EEF
The manufacturer’s organisation
W: http://www.eef.org.uk/
Your Creative Future
A guide to education and career opportunities in the creative industries
W: http://www.yourcreativefuture.org/
National Apprenticeship Service
Information about engineering and manufacturing apprenticeships
W: http://www.apprenticeships.org.uk/types-of-apprenticeships/engineering-and-manufacturingtechnologies.aspx
Gradcracker
Careers website for Science, Engineering and Technology university students
W: http://www.gradcracker.com/
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Jobsites
http://www.careersinfoodanddrink.co.uk/
http://ccskills.org.uk/careers/advice
http://www.maintenanceonline.co.uk/comments.asp?func=jobssite
http://www.justengineers.net/
https://www.engineerjobs.co.uk/
http://jobs.theengineer.co.uk/
http://www.engineerboard.co.uk/
http://www.nce.co.uk/
http://www.euroengineerjobs.com/
http://www.orionjobs.com/
http://jobs.theiet.org/jobs/browse
http://www.manufacturingjobs.co.uk/
http://www.britishengineeringjobs.co.uk/
https://www.gov.uk/jobsearch
http://www.waterjobsuk.com/
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Women in Engineering and Manufacturing
About Us
Copyright
The copyright of these resources is vested in the Crown, but the resources are freely available
for public use through an Open Government Licence. The full terms of this licence are
available at http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/.
Context
CfBT Advice and Guidance Ltd is the prime contractor for the National Careers Service in the
North East of England. In 2013, we secured Equality and Diversity Innovation Fund support to
develop resources for careers professionals to use with adult men and women that promote
non-traditional occupational alternatives in sectors where gender stereotyping continues to
affect career choices.
These resources focus on four different sectors where both national and regional research has
indicated under-representation of men or women in careers within these areas.
For example, in April 2012, the Data Service published an Equality and Diversity data report
covering adult learner and all age Apprenticeship participation and success rates. Women
were well represented in adult learning overall, but there remained significant stereotyping by
gender in Apprenticeship sectors. Engineering and Construction frameworks were dominated
by men, while Health, Public Services and Care frameworks were dominated by women.
The Institute for Employment Studies Good Practice Evaluation of the Diversity in
Apprenticeship Pilots (http://www.employment-studies.co.uk/pdflibrary/496.pdf) found that
young women, parents, and often teachers and advisers held outdated views of science,
technology, engineering and manufacturing (STEM) occupations, and there is a need for
gender positive images and role models in marketing campaigns to make social care careers
a comfortable choice for male applicants.
Project Team
Our project team includes Edwin Milligan, Shirley Sunderland, Carly Hinds, Kareem Nower
and Colette O’Brien from CfBT Advice and Guidance Ltd. Contact us at:
nationalcareersservice@cfbt.com
Date
April 2014
Version
1.0
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