Currently there is a geopolitical scenario that impacts the global supply chain through the shortage of raw materials, conflicts, and the aftermath of Covid-19, companies also need to contend with the skills shortage, sustainability measures, and technological...
WEAF news
The Testia UK training centre offers a special early bird discount for their NDT courses
12 Dec
It is never too early to plan your NDT courses for the new year! The Testia UK training centre in Bristol offers a special early bird discount for their NDT courses in January and February. Register now for a 10 % discount for course subscriptions before the end of...
Findings from the Cheltenham and Gloucester Cluster Meeting
10 Dec
The recent Cheltenham and Gloucester Cluster Meeting provided a valuable opportunity for attendees to engage in discussions around recruitment and retention challenges. The event was widely regarded as both beneficial and important, with attendees offering some useful...
Growth Sector Series: Innovation Overview in the South West
2 Dec
The South West is a powerhouse of innovation, fuelling the UK’s next generation of industrial capabilities. With a thriving aerospace ecosystem that spans sustainable technologies, uncrewed systems, eVTOL, and cutting-edge aircraft, this region is at the forefront of...
New DASA Themed Competition – PYRAMID
6 Nov
The Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) is pleased to launch a new Themed Competition called PYRAMID for avionics and mission systems. Run on behalf of Air Command – Rapid Capabilities Office, this competition seeks proposals that can develop new, or adapt...
Autumn Budget 2024: What does it mean for the South West Aerospace and Advanced Manufacturing sectors?
4 Nov
Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves MP, delivered the Autumn Budget “Fixing Foundations to Deliver Change” to the House of Commons on 30 October. Aerospace, Defence, and Advanced Manufacturing investment was secured through £24 billion-plus of funds. ...
UK Government considers financial hurdles in Advanced Manufacturing; WEAF advocates for robust regional reporting mechanisms
4 Nov
The Department for Business & Trade (DBT) is requesting feedback on the challenges facing UK advanced manufacturing companies in accessing long-term growth capital. Responses need to be received by 23:59 on Tuesday 26th November. WEAF calls for UK Government to...
Growth Sector Series: Skills Overview in the South West
31 Oct
The skills shortage challenge facing the aerospace and advanced manufacturing sectors is ubiquitous throughout the UK, Europe, and the US. The Covid-19 pandemic catalysed an era of early retirements. When this is combined with ongoing retention challenges and...
Growth Sector Series: Defence Overview in the South West
24 Oct
The South West region is home to the UK’s largest aerospace cluster, featuring an extensive range of industries, capabilities, facilities and skills, and remains the second largest in Europe. Invest Bristol + Bath highlights that the aerospace and advanced...
Demystifying the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy
17 Oct
Demystifying the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy through a South West Aerospace and Advanced Manufacturing lens Download as PDF here: Demystifying the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy - WEAF Invest 2035: the UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy is a green paper...
Addressing Recruitment and Apprenticeship Challenges: Key Takeaways from the Bristol & Bath Cluster Meeting
8 Oct
Addressing Recruitment and Apprenticeship Challenges: Key Takeaways from the Bristol & Bath Cluster Meeting Workshop - 19th Sept 2024 On 19th September 2024, WEAF members at the Bristol & Bath Cluster gathered to discuss some of the most pressing...
WEAF CEO Update
7 Oct
After a busy and productive Farnborough International Airshow (FIA) in July for the WEAF team, our CEO Colin Turner has provided members with an overview on WEAF engagements, the current state of the aerospace industry, and the challenges facing the supply chain. ...