
Automation and the New Industrial Strategy
This forum event brought together industry leaders, experts, and stakeholders for an open, solution-focused discussion on key themes such as skills development, technology adoption, finance, and the pivotal role of robot adoption hubs. The aim is to identify both opportunities and challenges within the strategy—and, more importantly, to help identify a path forward that reflects the needs of the sector.
Insights from the forum will feed into a collaborative document that will be submitted to key policymakers involved in the strategy’s design and implementation. This is a unique opportunity to ensure that the voice of UK industry is heard at the highest levels.
The document will be uploaded to our website, and the full discussion will be available to watch on YouTube. Viewers will also have the chance to submit their own perspectives and suggestions. These contributions will be carefully reviewed and considered as part of the final document.
Join us in helping to build a stronger, smarter future for UK manufacturing.
Watch the full rewind below
EVENT LEARNINGS
This forum event brought together industry leaders, experts, and stakeholders for an open, solution-focused discussion on key themes such as skills development, technology adoption, finance, and the pivotal role of robot adoption hubs. The aim is to identify both opportunities and challenges within the strategy—and, more importantly, to help identify a path forward that reflects the needs of the sector.
Download hereOur Host

Thomas Flude
Co-Founder of Engineers InsightWith over 12 years of experience in the manufacturing sector and a resume that includes leading companies like Yaskawa and Schneider Electric, Tom brings unparalleled expertise and passion to the Forum. Driven by a commitment to advancing the engineering and manufacturing industry, Tom created the Engineer’s Insight mobile app – a game-changer that’s resonating with professionals across generations, including emerging young engineers. His influence extends far and wide, thanks to his engaging podcasts – some of which have collected 20,000+ views – and his strong presence on social media.
Our Panellists

Peter Williamson
Executive Chair, Automate UKIn his role as Executive Chair of leading trade body Automate UK, Peter is looking to use his 25 years of experience in robotics and automation to support end users in adopting the latest in automation technology and to help raise awareness of the benefits that automation can bring to UK manufacturing. His experience comes from RARUK Automation, a company he formed in 2016 that is now a world leading supplier of collaborative robots (or cobots), and for which he is also now a non-executive director.

James Fudge
Head of Operations, Manufacturing Technologies AssociationJames joined the MTA in November 2011 having worked for a large construction trade association. Having been Head of Events & Membership for the MTA, James moved into the role of Head of Operations. James oversees the MTA's membership services, events programme and MACH exhibition.

Steve Brambley
Chief Executive, GAMBICAHe leads GAMBICA in being a highly collaborative and influential organisation, engaging with a diverse range of stakeholders including UK and European governments, associations, institutions, academia, industry, media & events companies and standards bodies. He has over 20 years of trade association experience at GAMBICA with previous roles in public affairs and the industrial automation sector.

Paul O Donnell
Alliance Secretary, EAMAPaul has worked in policy and advocacy for over twenty years, the majority of it in manufacturing. He has worked for Trade and Professional bodies, consultancies and a major educational organisation. He is now the Alliance Secretary of EAMA, an umbrella body of eleven trade associations in the machinery and component supply chain sectors.
Get in touch
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