Under the theme “Engineering and Manufacturing is the Engine of Growth,” finalists will gather on Thursday, 3 July 2025 at Park Plaza London Riverbank for the awards ceremony. This prestigious event honours outstanding apprentices, students, employers, and training providers whose commitment to learning underpins sustainable industry growth.

Ann Watson, CEO of Enginuity, which represents hundreds of engineering and advanced manufacturing organisations, from small family firms to the globally renowned brands, wants the awards to underline the true potential that the sector offers the nation.

“What a gathering of brilliant Brits awaits us. The fact that two-thirds of the individual finalists are women, fills me with joy and hope for the future. They are within the grasp of glory. Governments and business are united in their desire for economic growth and our sector has the pent-up potential to deliver it. These awards celebrate those that have excelled in all sorts of ways, extraordinary people with extraordinary stories, icons to inspire others, spread innovation and enhance the sector in all sorts of ways.”

The National Network of Institutes of Technology is delighted to be partnering with Enginuity on the SME Employer Skills Champion award that recognises the outstanding commitment by an engineering or manufacturing SME employer to sustainable business improvement through learning and development. We’re delighted that the finalists in this category are:

• Useful Simple Trust, through targeted training programmes and industry partnerships, demonstrating outstanding commitment to sustainable business improvement, aligning with Enginuity's mission to close engineering and manufacturing skills gaps.
• Reliance Precision Limited, through investments in training, site visits, and soft skills workshops, the company has enhanced its apprenticeship programme, fostering a skilled, diverse workforce while promoting engineering to young people.
• DePe Gear Ltd, with its mentorship programme and specialised CNC training have led to improved productivity and reduced errors. With plans to expand training opportunities and collaborate with Enginuity to support the development of the next generation of engineers.

Rosa Wells, Chair of the National Network of Institutes of Technology, emphasises:

“Institutes of Technology are proud to support the Enginuity Skills Awards, recognising the vital role engineers play in driving innovation and growth—especially within the UK’s thriving SME sector. Our mission is to deliver high-quality technical education that meets employer needs, empowering the next generation of engineers with the skills to succeed. By championing excellence and collaboration, we ensure that SMEs can access the talent and expertise they need to compete and grow. These awards celebrate the people and partnerships shaping the future of engineering—and we’re honoured to partner with Enginuity.”

See the full list of finalists on the Enginuity Skills Awards website.