[New] Collaborative approach needed to address skills shortage

Engaging with colleges and universities will play a key role in tackling the skills shortage in the manufacturing sector.

Director Philip Martin said: “The manufacturing sector in general is facing severe recruitment challenges – 82 per cent of businesses report having a problem. And we are in the same boat.

“We have found that there is a lack of courses tailored around what we do as an industry–especially in schools and colleges. Courses that do cover our area are more tailored towards the film industry, whereas we are more about prototyping and engineering.

“The colleges and universities we have spoken to have said their intakes have reduced and fewer people are doing this type of work.”

Philip has already completed the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) questionnaire that is being shared by the Herts Chamber and encourages other businesses to follow suit.

“We have an excellent culture at Ogle, with a diverse range of projects to work on. We provide the opportunity to work with some of the biggest companies in the world, creating prototypes of projects before they come to market. For the right person, we can provide an incredible career.”

Ogle has invested almost £2m in equipment over the past three years to enable the company to offer the highest quality products for customers ranging from car manufacturers to airlines.

The Letchworth-based company, with a history stretching back almost 70 years, has a highly skilled team but is facing hurdles in finding new talent.

“This is our opportunity to have our voices heard and be able to help shape training provision for the future.