A Warm Welcome in a Historic Setting
On a damp autumn morning, West Special Fasteners hosted the NED Manufacturing network at the stunning Chatsworth House, for a morning of collaboration and forward-thinking discussion. The goal? To explore how we can inspire and support the next generation to engage with the world of manufacturing.
The day began with freshly brewed coffee and an array of pastries, a small but thoughtful detail that set the tone for an open and engaging conversation. It’s these touches, combined with West Special Fasteners passion for excellence, that made the event feel special.
Preserving Heritage While Driving Innovation
Wonderfully chaired by Jane Weston, the session opened with a powerful discussion on the importance of preserving heritage, highlighting the incredible work West SpecialFasteners is doing with HMS Victory. This project is a perfect example of how traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology can work hand in hand.
Simon Grass-Smith, Business Development Manager at West Special Fasteners spoke passionately about his personal connection to the project and what it represents:
“For me, HMS Victory is more than a ship, it’s a symbol of resilience and craftsmanship. My father served in the Royal Navy and was stationed at Portsmouth, so this project feels deeply personal. It’s about honouring the past while using modern innovation to ensure this legacy lives on for generations to come.”
Changing Perceptions of Manufacturing
Throughout the morning, it was inspiring to hear passionate voices discussing the future of engineering and manufacturing. We explored how the industry is evolving, the need to re-educate people about the diverse and exciting roles it offers, and how modern factories have transformed from gloomy industrial spaces into bright, high-tech environments, yet the old image still lingers.
West Special Fasteners is proud to be part of this transformation, proving that British manufacturing can honour its heritage while embracing the future.
Looking Ahead: Building a Stronger Future Together
As we look to the future, one thing is clear: collaboration is key. The challenges and opportunities facing the manufacturing sector cannot be tackled in isolation. By working closely with local businesses, schools, and community partners, we can create a powerful network that inspires and supports the next generation of engineers and innovators. These partnerships are essential for showing young people the real-world impact of manufacturing and the exciting and diverse career paths it offers.
The passion in the room at Chatsworth proved this is more than just a conversation, it’s the start of a movement. Together, we can challenge outdated stereotypes, showcase the cutting-edge technology driving modern manufacturing, and demonstrate how heritage and innovation can thrive side by side.
Hearing about the incredible work already being done by businesses in our region was truly inspiring. Their success stories show what’s possible when industry, education, and communities collaborate, and they give us confidence as we continue our own journey. These partnerships are vital to creating opportunities for young people and ensuring the future of manufacturing remains strong and innovative.
With several exciting events already planned for 2026, there’s never been a better time to get involved. If you’d like to be part of this journey, please contact Jane at NED and join West Special Fasteners in shaping the future of manufacturing.
West Special Fasteners: Specialised Fastening Solutions
(2) Jane Weston, BA (Hons) Management, MCIPD | LinkedIn
