Grantham-based engineering firm BGB has strengthened its commitment to developing the next generation of engineers through an exciting new partnership with West Grantham Academy.

As part of this initiative, six students will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience across key engineering disciplines, including manual turning and milling, as well as slip ring assembly—a crucial technique used in manufacturing cutting-edge components for the energy, transport, and utilities industries.

Developing Technical and Transferable Skills

Beyond industry-specific expertise, the students will also develop essential transferable skills such as project management, critical thinking, and problem-solving. These skills will be nurtured through mentorship from BGB’s experienced engineering team over a 12 to 18-month training programme.

BGB hopes that this initiative will not only showcase the vast potential of careers in engineering but also help to challenge outdated perceptions of the industry as “unskilled” or “dirty.” Instead, students will be introduced to state-of-the-art testing equipment and the role engineers play in tackling global challenges, including innovations in wind turbine technology to support the fight against climate change.

Addressing the Engineering Skills Gap

Despite engineering and manufacturing playing a pivotal role in the UK economy—employing six million people, or 18% of the workforce—the sector is facing a significant skills gap. The Engineering Council and critics of Labour’s Industrial Strategy warn that new talent is needed now more than ever.

A recent report revealed that 81% of businesses struggle to find suitable candidates for engineering roles, making programmes like BGB’s apprenticeship scheme crucial for securing the sector’s long-term success.

Beyond its work with West Grantham Academy, BGB has long been active in supporting engineering education, partnering with Lincoln College, Grantham College, Priory Academy, and The Kings School to provide work experience, T-Level placements, and careers talks aimed at bridging the skills gap.

A Long-Term Commitment to Apprenticeships

Leading BGB’s apprenticeship programme is Production Manager Nathan Flower, who reflected on the company’s long-standing commitment to nurturing talent:

“Next year, BGB will mark its 50th anniversary, a major milestone in our company’s history. At our core is a commitment to attracting and developing great people, and this philosophy is at the heart of our apprenticeship programme.

“Over the years, more than 30 apprentices have come through our doors, many of whom have progressed into senior roles. Take James Wood, our Chief Design Officer, who started as an apprentice in 1996. Beginning on the shop floor at our Grantham HQ, he was given the opportunity to grow within the design team and eventually went on to lead our operations in the United States.

“James is one of many success stories at BGB. His journey, and those of others like him, are the result of passion, investment, and belief in young talent.

“We’re aware of the challenges in attracting fresh talent to the industry. There are long-standing misconceptions that have made potential recruits hesitant, but we’re actively working to change that. By opening our doors, fostering a strong workplace culture, engaging with local stakeholders, and demonstrating the real-world impact of our work, we are playing our part in pushing the industry forward.

“I look forward to seeing where this next cohort of apprentices will go, and I’d like to thank West Grantham Academy for trusting us to support their students.”

West Grantham Academy: Bridging Education and Industry

Senior Vice Principal Kirsty Kuffour from West Grantham Academy highlighted the importance of their partnership with BGB:

“We are incredibly grateful to BGB for their support. Recognising a gap in the local recruitment of apprentice engineers, we were eager to offer our students a course that provides both a Level 2 qualification and valuable work experience in engineering.

“BGB’s generosity in sharing their time, expertise, and facilities has provided our students with invaluable hands-on experience, inspiring many of them to pursue careers in engineering. We look forward to continuing this exciting collaboration in the future.”

A Legacy of Innovation

Founded in 1976, BGB has built a strong reputation for designing and engineering smart rotary solutions for the renewable energy, construction, utilities, and transport sectors. The family-owned business operates across key European markets, including Spain, Denmark, and Germany, where it is a market leader in rotary solutions for the renewable energy sector.

By investing in young talent through partnerships like this, BGB is ensuring that engineering skills remain at the heart of innovation and industry growth—both in the UK and beyond.