Celebrating Manufacturing Excellence at the Leeds Manufacturing Festival Next Gen Awards 2024
The Leeds Manufacturing Festival Next Gen Awards 2024 was an incredible success on the 13th of June at Leeds Beckett University, recognising exceptional achievements and innovations in the manufacturing and engineering sectors. Sponsored by E3 Recruitment, Next Gen Makers, Leeds City Council and Leeds City College, this year’s awards celebrated the brightest talents and forward-thinking employers who are shaping the future of the industry.
Here’s a recap of the remarkable winners and runners-up from the Leeds Manufacturing Festival Next Gen Awards 2024.
Future Manufacturing Leader
Sponsored by Leeds City Council
- Winner: Keiran Dinsdale, Greyhound Box
- Second place: Liam Thacker, AW Hainsworth
- Third Place: Jonny Ison, Kirkstall Precision Engineering
Kieran’s long-term commitment, varied skill set, and leadership qualities have earned him the title of ‘Future Manufacturing Leader’. He commands respect, shows creativity, and upholds Greyhound Box’s company values. His role in design and sustainability, along with ongoing personal development, has set the benchmark for aspiring leaders.
Apprentice of 2024 Award
Sponsored by Next Gen Makers
- Winner: Dan Brodie, Bensons Panels
- Joint second place: Ethan Ridge, Leeds Welding Company and Connor Patrick, LBBC
- Third place: Alfie Kellet, AW Hainsworth
Dan’s ability to step up and take ownership of a critical department during a resource crisis, while maintaining high academic performance and learning new skills, is highly impressive. His impact on the company and leadership qualities made it an easy choice to name him as Apprentice of the Year by Next Gen Makers.
Rising Star of 2024 Award
Sponsored by Leeds City College
- Winner: Michael Ellis, LBBC
- Second place: Casey Allison, Sound Leisure
- Third place: Louis Audain, Brandon Medical
Michael Ellis was recognised as the Rising Star for his significant contributions and exceptional potential in the industry. His achievements at LBBC demonstrate exceptional technical abilities and resilience, mastering complex CNC operations and excelling in his studies. His dedication to high-precision tasks for critical projects like those for the Ministry of Defence showcases his extraordinary capabilities and commitment, and is why he is this years Leeds Manufacturing Festival Next Gen Awards 2024 Rising Star.
Employer of 2024 Award
Sponsored by E3 Recruitment
- Large Employer of the Year Award: Schneider Electric
- SME Employer of the Year Award: FaberExposise (Northern Flags)
- Runner up and Highly Commended: LBBC Group
Schneider Electric was celebrated for its comprehensive training programs, competency management tools, and commitment to employee development. Their apprenticeship programs and numerous training opportunities demonstrate a strong dedication to fostering talent and innovation within the organisation.
FaberExposize UK earned the SME Employer of the Year title for its emphasis on apprenticeship schemes, training programs, and opportunities for personal growth and development. Their recognition through awards like the Printing Charity Rising Star Awards highlights their commitment to investing in their workforce and driving excellence in the print industry.
LBBC Group was acknowledged for its structured training programs, including highly regarded engineering apprenticeships and management training. Their commitment to supporting employees’ personal goals and fostering innovation made them a standout candidate for Employer of the Year.
E3 Recruitment is immensely proud to be part of the Leeds Manufacturing Festival Next Gen Awards 2024, celebrating the incredible success and innovation within the manufacturing industry. By sponsoring the ‘Employer of the Year’ award, E3 Recruitment underscores its commitment to recognising and supporting the outstanding dedication of employers who prioritise workforce development and training.
The Leeds Manufacturing Festival’s Next Gen Awards 2024 were a resounding success, showcasing the extraordinary talent and innovation within the manufacturing and engineering sectors. E3 Recruitment is honored to support this event and congratulates all the winners and nominees for their remarkable achievements.
