Minister meets WMG experts driving industrial innovation

He met with researchers, technicians, and students at the International Manufacturing Centre (IMC), where experts work with industry partners to drive forward innovation in fields such as advanced manufacturing and agritech.

He was welcomed by Professor Kerry KirwanLink opens in a new window, Dean of WMG; Professor David Greenwood, CEO WMG High Value Manufacturing Catapult and Director for Industrial Engagement, and Greg Clark, Executive Chair of the University of Warwick's Innovation District.

The Minister also had the opportunity to view a range of innovative student projects, including Warwick Racing, Warwick Moto, and Warwick Harvest.

The students spoke enthusiastically about the projects and the confidence, teamwork, and technical skills they have developed - qualities that will provide a strong foundation as they progress in their chosen careers.

Speaking after the visit, Minister for Industry Chris McDonald said: “To ensure that Britain is the best place in the world to do business, we need the best workforce in the world with the right skills and expertise to thrive.

“That’s why we’ve placed skills and universities at the heart of our Modern Industrial Strategy. By bringing academia and industry together, we are helping to create hundreds of thousands of careers that will help transform key growth sectors like digital and technology, and advanced manufacturing."

Professor Kerry Kirwan, Dean of WMG said: “It was a pleasure to welcome the Minister for Industry and give him a glimpse of the cutting-edge research and product development happening across WMG.

“We work hand-in-hand with industry to spark innovation, strengthen our economy, and give people the skills they need to make a real difference.”

Professor David GreenwoodLink opens in a new window, CEO WMG High Value Manufacturing CatapultLink opens in a new window and Director for Industrial Engagement, at WMG added: “WMG has a mission to deliver the knowledge, people and technology needed by industry in the future. Today was a great opportunity to show the Minister how we are aligning to the industrial strategy - especially in areas like steel and batteries, and in sectors like automotive, aerospace and agritech. The Minister was highly engaging in his discussions with our students, apprentices and staff, and clearly an enthusiastic supporter of the UK manufacturing sector.”