Manufacturers and engineering firms across Leeds are ramping up efforts to recruit young talent as youth unemployment hits a 10-year high.
The Leeds Manufacturing Festival has returned for 2026, launching this week with a sold-out event. The expanded programme aims to connect local businesses directly with young people through T Levels, apprenticeships, and graduate roles. With the unemployment rate for 16 to 24-year-olds reaching 16% at the end of 2025, organisers say linking employers with future talent has never been more critical.
A growing network of firms is backing the initiative, including award-winning companies such as textiles manufacturer AW Hainsworth, Brandon Medical, and Kirkstall Precision Engineering. These businesses are opening their doors for site visits and hands-on experiences to help students and parents understand the range of modern careers available.
Verity Davidge, director of policy and public affairs at Make UK, said: “Manufacturing offers diverse, rewarding, and well-paid careers, with average wages around 8% higher than across the economy as a whole.”
She commented: “Initiatives like the Leeds Manufacturing Festival have been shown to be incredibly effective in getting that message across to young people. Make UK is really pleased to be involved again this year with the festival, which goes from strength to strength in its scope and ambition. At a time when youth unemployment is rising it is more important than ever to get that message out there.”
The festival seeks to change attitudes toward the sector by providing first-hand experience of the industry. Highlights for 2026 include a two-day STEM Fest for 2,000 students and the Leeds Manufacturing Festival Awards in June.
Ben Wilson, managing director of MPM Group and festival spokesperson, said: “Leeds Manufacturing Festival is about changing attitudes to manufacturing, bringing employers and students together, giving young people first-hand experience of the industry, and helping businesses connect with individuals who are keen to learn, develop and build a career.”
He commented: “With employers facing a shortage of new, skilled people and young people themselves finding it more difficult than ever to secure viable and sustainable careers, it is vital that we make those connections and show that there are high-quality, long-term career opportunities available right here in our region.”
The launch event also featured a panel of young professionals already working in the sector, including degree apprentice Kshamya Mittal and head of design Matthew Kay, to showcase successful career paths in the Leeds region.
