Made Smarter celebrates latest wave of Lancashire digital pioneers

Made Smarter is celebrating a new generation of Lancashire manufacturing leaders who are learning together to drive digital transformation across the North West.

The latest cohort of its Leading Digital Transformation (LDT) programme brought together 12 SME manufacturers, including three from Lancashire, who have each gained the confidence, strategy and skills to lead their businesses into the digital age.

The three Lancashire businesses include Fleming Howland, a furniture manufacturer based in Hapton; Reverse Engineering, a precision machining business in Whitestake; and Calyx Drinks, a drink manufacturer based in Burnley.

Simon Keogh, general manager of Factory Automation at Siemens UK and Ireland, and a member of Made Smarter North West’s Steering Board, attended the recent graduation showcase event.

He said: “Digital transformation is not a single project but a continual process of improvement.

"Many SMEs recognise the significant productivity improvements that can be gained from the use of new technologies, from AI to digital modelling and simulation. Made Smarter’s leadership programme is empowering manufacturers with the tools and confidence to embed that mindset and bring their people with them.”

Participants say the programme has helped them build confidence, strategy and momentum.

Christopher Bridge, welder fabricator at Reverse Engineering, said: “At first the course felt like a whirlwind, but it quickly gave me the tools to step back and see the bigger picture.

"I’ve developed skills in scoping, planning and process mapping which have helped me identify potential growth opportunities within the business.

“One of the most valuable aspects was the cohort itself. I learnt so much from being alongside other leaders and created a fantastic new network that I can draw on in the future.

“The timing has been perfect as I step into a management role to oversee our new laser cutting service. The programme has given me the confidence and practical tools to make sure this investment delivers real improvements in quality, efficiency and customer satisfaction.”

Paul Fleming, managing director of Fleming Howland, said: “Our challenge is to respect heritage craftsmanship while embracing the tools that secure our future.

"The programme gave us structured planning tools and the confidence to use digital technologies such as CNC and kanban software alongside traditional artistry without compromising quality.

“Taking time to step back and look at the business strategically helped us identify ways to reduce lead times, cut waste and improve communication.

"We are now developing an R&D hub, investing in digital workflows and bringing more production in-house to support apprenticeships and sustainable growth.”

Manufacturers across the North West are now invited to register for the next Leading Digital Transformation programme and join Made Smarter’s growing ecosystem of digital leaders shaping the future of UK manufacturing.

Ruth Hailwood, Made Smarter’s lead organisation and workforce development specialist, said: “What makes this programme special is that it brings manufacturing leaders together to share ideas, challenges and experiences in a space designed for their sector. They quickly realise they are not alone on their digital journey.

“By learning with and from their peers, participants build lasting networks of support that extend far beyond the course itself. That community of shared learning and collaboration is what drives the wider culture of digital leadership we are building through Made Smarter.

“Our people-first approach helps SME manufacturers adopt technology in a way that fits their business. The programme gives leaders the time and space to step back, reflect and share ideas with peers, so they can take their whole organisation through digital transformation with confidence.”

Delivered in partnership with the University of Salford and Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU), the LDT programme blends face-to-face and online learning over 14 weeks, giving manufacturing leaders a flexible, high-impact experience that fits around their day-to-day demands.

The programme, part of Made Smarter North West, the government-funded, industry-led technology adoption initiative, also provides first-hand exposure to advanced technologies and creates valuable peer learning networks that extend beyond the classroom.

Since its launch in 2023, the LDT programme has established 65 digital leaders as informed and empowered change-makers, each equipped with a bespoke digital strategy. This includes 11 from Lancashire.

This follows the success of Made Smarter’s earlier leadership initiative, which supported 62 business leaders between 2019 and 2023.

Dr Ann Mulhaney, associate professor of change management at the University of Salford, said: “This partnership between academia and industry is helping to shape a new generation of leaders who can guide manufacturing through the opportunities and complexities of digital transformation.”