Nominations have officially opened for the fifth annual Leeds Manufacturing Festival Awards, calling on employers across West Yorkshire to spotlight their most promising young talent. The awards, scheduled for 4th June at Leeds Beckett University, celebrate the apprentices and future leaders who are redefining the image of modern manufacturing.
Organisers believe this year’s ceremony arrives at a turning point for the sector, as more young people choose career pathways offering high-tech variety and hands-on experience over traditional academic routes. Ben Wilson, managing director of MPM Group and festival spokesperson, noted that this new generation is successfully challenging outdated perceptions of the industry.
Last year’s winners have already seen the impact of the recognition. Eesa Mahmood, an apprentice fabricator and welder at Waites Mechanical Services, who was named Apprentice of the Year, shared:
“Winning the award gave me a real confidence boost and made me realise how much I’ve progressed. Since starting out, I’ve developed a wide range of skills and taken on new challenges. It’s an industry where you can keep learning and improving.”
Kiera Barrass, an engineering operative apprentice at Leeds Welding Company and Rising Star winner, added:
“The award win has helped me gain the confidence to believe that I can make a good life for myself in engineering. I might be small in stature but I’ve been able to achieve just as highly as my male colleagues in this industry and can see a range of options ahead.”
The 2026 categories include Apprentice of the Year, Rising Star, Future Manufacturing Leader, Mentor of the Year, Graduate of the Year, and Employer of the Year. A special Manufacturing Ambassador Award will also be presented to the individual who has done the most to promote the sector over the last year.
Winners will receive cash prizes, and a donation will be made to the Howarth Foundation on behalf of the Employer of the Year to support those who are homeless in finding employment or training.
Nominations are open until 17th May. For further information and entry details, visit www.leedsmanufacturingfestival.co.uk.
