Despite turbulence across the sector throughout 2020, manufacturing has stepped up to the mark and continues to play an integral role during the ongoing economic recovery.
The industry was of course called into action for the NHS to help its key workers meet the pressures of the pandemic. Therefore, development and training have been critical to UK manufacturing companies.
In order to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving economy, Huddersfield-based Salamander Fabrications has committed to investing in a workforce that’s eager to learn new techniques, develop existing talents and truly make a difference.
“At Salamander Fabrications, we’ve invested heavily in automated machinery to make operations swifter and more efficient,” commented David McStrafick, General Manager.
“Recently, we’ve welcomed our latest high-tech laser – in addition to the one we already had – and brought in automation, with connectivity to a sheet storage warehouse, onto the shopfloor. We’ve since trained up a number of our staff in how to utilise it effectively too.”
Commenting also on the impact that these developments have made to the production line, David added: “It’s helped to further engage and motivate our employees and they all really want to learn more about advanced technologies. In addition, it frees up their time so they can prioritise other tasks – while the machinery works away in the background.”
With over 50 years’ experience, sheet metal specialist Salamander continues to develop its skillset and capacity – most notably being accredited to EN15085-2 status which is a rail-specific welding accreditation. This enables the business to take on large-scale rail projects and further enhance employees’ attributes in order to weld rail components to widen its project portfolio.
David explained: “With a high-quality team, we’re able to do so much more in terms of what we produce and the sectors in which we can work.
“And as well as matching up to an ever-changing business landscape, it’s about the customers too. They’re becoming accustomed to companies that can offer first-class products and services much quicker and slicker – and for that to happen you need your workforce to be empowered to learn more as demand evolves.
“Employees are often the heartbeat of any organisation, so it’s important that ours feel valued and stay loyal so we can continue to retain top talent in the manufacturing industry.”
Salamander Fabrications is no stranger to empowering employees to use smart systems so it can complete large-scale projects spanning sectors including rail, automotive, agriculture and retail.