Built By Manufacturers. Driven By Purpose.
WYMS was created by manufacturers who recognised the importance of investing in skills, supporting businesses and strengthening the future of manufacturing and engineering. As a charity, every initiative, partnership and programme we deliver is driven by a commitment to developing a skilled workforce, building stronger industry connections and helping the sector continue to grow and thrive. Today, WYMS brings together employers, educators, stakeholders and industry professionals to create opportunities that benefit businesses, individuals and the wider manufacturing community.
Why WYMS Was Created
Manufacturing and engineering have long played a vital role in the economy of West Yorkshire and the wider region. Recognising the need to support employers, develop future talent and address industry-wide skills challenges, WYMS was established by manufacturers for manufacturers.
As a charitable organisation, our purpose has always been about more than delivering services. We exist to strengthen the manufacturing and engineering sector by helping businesses access the skills, knowledge and support they need to succeed.
Through workforce development, business support, collaboration and advocacy, we work to ensure that manufacturing and engineering remain strong, competitive and equipped for the future.
Building a Stronger Manufacturing Community
At the heart of WYMS is a belief that businesses are stronger when they work together.
Over the years, our role has evolved beyond training and skills development to become a hub for collaboration, networking and industry engagement. Through the creation of the Supporter Network and Advocate Network, we have brought together organisations that share a commitment to supporting the future of manufacturing and engineering.
These growing communities help businesses stay connected, share knowledge, collaborate on challenges and contribute to the wider success of the sector.
By bringing together employers, industry experts, educators and stakeholders, we continue to create opportunities that benefit both individual businesses and the manufacturing community as a whole.
Partnerships, Facilities and Looking Forward
Collaboration remains central to everything we do.
Through partnerships with organisations such as Calderdale College, we help connect employers with Apprenticeships, T Levels and workforce development opportunities that support the next generation of skilled professionals.
We are also proud custodians of Junction25 (Stylised Junction25 at WYMS), a conference and training venue that has served businesses and organisations for more than 25 years. Since becoming part of WYMS, significant investment has been made to modernise and develop the facilities, creating the flexible, professional venue enjoyed by customers today.
As we look to the future, our commitment remains unchanged. We will continue to invest in people, support businesses, strengthen industry connections and create opportunities that help manufacturing and engineering thrive for generations to come.
Our Impact
What began as a commitment to supporting the manufacturing and engineering sector has grown into a thriving community with a significant regional impact.
Today, WYMS supports:
- 850 businesses annually
- 190+ Supporters and Advocates
- 1,200+ event attendees each year
- 10+ industry events delivered annually
- 86 training courses delivered in 2025
- 600+ students annually
These figures represent more than activity. They reflect the collaboration, knowledge sharing, skills development and business support that help employers overcome challenges, develop their people and prepare for the future.
Every course delivered, event hosted and connection made contributes to our charitable mission of supporting a skilled, resilient and successful manufacturing sector.
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Experienced Trainers.
All of our trainers are fully qualified experts in their field. Our trainers are constantly updating their methods and materials keeping abreast of current best practice and will be happy to help should you require any advice or information.