As manufacturers navigate rapid advances in artificial intelligence, automation and digital technologies, developing the next generation’s skills has become a major industry priority.

John Crane, a global leader in flow control technologies and a business of Smiths Group plc, marked World Youth Skills Day on 15 July by highlighting the role employers play in equipping young people with the practical, technical and digital skills required for a rapidly changing workplace.

The World Economic Forum estimates that almost 40 per cent of current workplace skills will change by 2030, while nearly two-thirds of employers identify skills shortages as a major barrier to business transformation. Research from WorldSkills UK also shows that more than half of manufacturers struggle to access the skilled workforce they need, reinforcing the importance of investing in future talent.

Kate Ellison, Vice President, HR & Health & Safety, John Crane, said, “Manufacturing is evolving faster than ever before. Digitalisation, automation and artificial intelligence are transforming our industry, creating exciting opportunities but also changing the skills businesses need to succeed.

“Meeting that challenge is not simply about recruiting talent. It is about developing it. By investing in young people, creating meaningful career pathways and supporting continuous learning throughout people’s careers, we are helping to build a workforce that is ready for the future.

“At John Crane, apprenticeships form an important part of that commitment. They provide people with the opportunity to gain recognised qualifications while building real-world experience, confidence and practical skills alongside experienced colleagues. At the same time, apprentices bring fresh perspectives, digital capabilities and new ideas that strengthen our business.

“World Youth Skills Day is an important reminder that investing in skills today is one of the most valuable investments we can make for our people, customers and the future of manufacturing.”

John Crane’s apprenticeship programme spans engineering, manufacturing, data, digital and business functions. It enables apprentices to combine structured learning with hands-on experience on projects supporting customers across energy, process industries, mining and other critical sectors.

Jamie Bovington, Data Analyst Apprentice, said,  “I wanted to apply the knowledge I was gaining through my apprenticeship course in a business environment, make an impact and add value.

“Working alongside experienced colleagues has helped me develop technical skills much more quickly than I could have in a classroom alone, while giving me the confidence to contribute to projects that make a real difference.

“Knowing that my work supports teams across a global business makes the experience even more rewarding.”

Stuart Williams, Director of Manufacturing Technology, John Crane said: “The opportunities for today’s apprentices are fantastic. My apprenticeship gave me the foundations for a career that has taken me around the world, working with colleagues and customers in different countries and experiencing opportunities I never imagined when I first started. If I had the chance to do it all again, I absolutely would. It is incredibly rewarding to now see the next generation beginning that same journey. This year’s World Youth Skills Day theme, ‘Skills for a Shared Future’, recognises that as technology reshapes industries, employers, educators and governments have a role in ensuring young people are equipped with the skills required for the future.

Kate added, “Engineering has always been about solving problems and improving the way the world works. The next generation will do that using technologies and tools that continue to evolve. Our responsibility is to give them the skills, experience and support they need to succeed and to ensure our industry continues to innovate for decades to come.”