Forging futures with manufacturing degree

A West Yorkshire manufacturer is creating a new route to leadership positions. 

CO Manufacturing, the Wakefield-based producer of doors, windows and living spaces, has launched a pioneering manufacturing degree pathway aimed at bridging the skills gap in the sector. 

Bosses say the programme will give young people a clear progression from entry-level roles to potential senior leadership positions.

The company is initially seeking five candidates to join the first cohort, which will begin with a two-year induction covering full production processes, quality management and workplace health and safety. 

Participants will then move through operations-based roles across multiple departments, gaining mentoring experience and completing process leader and lean practitioner qualifications.

Advanced stages of the pathway will provide opportunities to become team leaders or operations managers, while completing IOSH or NEBOSH certification and Six Sigma training.

The initiative is being delivered in partnership with the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, reflecting CO Manufacturing’s commitment to developing homegrown talent.

Head of HR Karen Starkey, who has been with CO Manufacturing for more than a decade, said: “There are lots of training opportunities out there and different apprenticeships, but you have to navigate a maze of courses, funding routes and providers to take someone from college and give them a chance to gain a manufacturing degree.

“This is a long-term issue for our business as we desperately need new talent coming through the ranks so that we can retain some of the traditional skills associated with fenestration, without it being lost with knowledgeable members of our team retiring.

“That’s why we knew we had to act, and I’m delighted to say that we now have a clear pathway for young people to follow, from Level 2 and Level 3 apprenticeships all the way to a degree.”

Karen added: “By the end of the pathway, we are hoping to create the next senior leader or even director of the business – that’s what we’re aiming for.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who has a passion to learn and has the right work ethic. 

“We’ll provide the funding for the courses, on-the-job training and access to mentors, who will help you on your learning journey and with any workplace challenges.

“Manufacturing businesses in the home improvement sector need to do something to make sure we have the future talent coming through so we can continue to grow and make the next generation of windows and doors.”

CO Manufacturing employs 180 people at its Wakefield site and has enjoyed strong growth over the past year, supplying products to trade customers and 27 UK retailers through the CO Home Improvement Network. 

The company holds Investors in People recognition and is on track to achieve the gold standard, underlining its commitment to workforce development.

Greg Kane, chief executive of CO Manufacturing, added: “There’s no point bemoaning the current skills situation if you’re not prepared to do something about it.

“We’ve spent a lot of time and money creating this manufacturing degree pathway that we believe can make a real difference to our sector. 

“Karen Starkey and her team have done a fabulous job…we now just need the young people to come forward and take advantage.”

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