Globally, manufacturers have struggles to recruit the skills they need to maintain high-quality production. In turn, it can become challenging to maintain quality and production levels, which can impact revenue and growth.

There are several reasons for the growing number of vacancies. There have been global trends like the pandemic; technological advancement has meant a change of required skills. In addition, historically, manufacturing was seen as an unattractive industry, i.e., long hours with few opportunities. An ageing and retiring workforce that takes decades of knowledge and experience with them adds to the trend.

One way Tamworth-based precision work holding and machining manufacturer Brown & Holmes is bucking the trend is through its robust apprenticeship schemes. Co-Managing Directors Kevin Ward and Carl Baker are living reminders of the power of the apprenticeship scheme, having both started their careers as apprentices themselves.

Nurturing talent from the local area
This is despite the difficulties of owning a manufacturing business in the UK today. Kevin Ward says, “We have a new government, net Zero, increasing costs and the livelihood of 70+ people to consider in our everyday decisions. But our apprenticeships and fostering new local talent is one of the things that feels right to continue supporting.”

Brown & Holmes is committed to the next generation of manufacturing. Running apprenticeships for trainees and courses designed to improve skills for experienced employees has earned them the ‘Next Gen’ Excellent Employer Award for the Apprenticeship scheme in the business.

Dan – finishing year 3 of his apprenticeship.
Shown here machining an aerofoil blade from solid stainless steel on a Doosan vertical.

Stan – a natural flair for quality control.
Brown & Holmes’ first-ever quality engineering trainee. From formulating accurate documentation to using the latest inspection technology, seen here with a Faro arm, Mitutoyo CMM and a Zeiss 3D scanner. Stan is a credit to Brown & Holmes and himself.

Mike and Neil’s – craftsmanship continues a proud tradition.
Unfortunately, we cannot show some of the parts produced last week due to NDAs, but in the words of co-managing director, Kevin Ward, “Skill, precision, pride, care, quality, respect, craftsmen, talent …”. The type of talent we will continue to nurture despite difficulties.

Terry Giblin – top employee
One of the company’s top employees, who refuses to retire and has stayed on to mentor the apprentices, passing on his skills and knowledge!

Archie Morgan & Henry Coke – New recruits
Pictured with Paul Bourne, operations manager in the gallery below. After a good start, they are off to a successful career in manufacturing and being part of our expanding business.

A reminder that training young people in manufacturing skills has always been the lifeblood of Brown & Holmes and continues to be!
A recent loft clear-out revealed co-managing Director Kevin Ward’s original apprenticeship papers. When asked for his comment, Kevin said he was thinking about donating it to the British History Museum!

Congratulations to everyone at Brown & Holmes (Tamworth) Limited!
It is amazing to see you acknowledged for the team’s commitment to the next generation in manufacturing in the UK!

For more information about Brown and Holmes (Tamworth) Limited, please get in touch on: 01827 63591