Building a robust talent pipeline for the UK manufacturing sector
Advanced manufacturing offers a rewarding career path for anyone who’s excited by the idea of shaping the future through technology.
It’s the ideal place to apply learning, develop new skills and gain fresh perspectives to solve pressing problems. At Pragmatic, we’re looking to cultivate a diverse workforce with a range of talent across different roles, encouraging big thinkers with the ambition to build a sustainable, connected world.
Part of that ambition is empowering our employees to expand their skillsets and gain new qualifications through a wide range of apprenticeships, from technical to managerial. Participants don’t just watch from the sidelines – they’re already helping to solve real-world challenges and contributing to next-gen technology. Here, we hear from three of them, as they explain how they’ve benefited from career development and the opportunity to reskill.
Leanne Wood, Supervisor – Back End Operations
When I joined Pragmatic three years ago, I had no semiconductor experience at all. But I was fascinated by all aspects of operations right from the start, and took three different roles in a short space of time.
When I took my current role in 2024, I decided that to do the job to the best of my ability, I needed to get some qualifications. I started a Level 3 apprenticeship in early 25, and I can already feel my confidence growing. I’m loving it! I’m learning English and maths functional skills, as well understanding different learning styles and drives, plus practical skills like conflict resolution.
I’m becoming more aware of the different personalities in my team – how they ‘re helping me to adapt so that I can help them in the best way I can. Being on the apprenticeship for the next 18 months has confirmed my dedication to the role. I’m looking forward to developing my skills further and becoming an even better manager.
Katy Murray, Talent Acquisition Advisor
Throughout my career, I’ve naturally gravitated towards roles that centre around people – whether through close collaboration with HR or taking on people-focused responsibilities myself. But while I had plenty of hands-on experience, I felt there were gaps in my foundational knowledge. I was keen to develop my understanding of employment law, handling complex HR situations, and the full spectrum of people practices.
That’s what led me to start my CIPD Level 3 qualification. My goal was simple: build a stronger knowledge base, gain confidence, and equip myself to make a bigger impact. And I can already feel the difference.
The course is enriching my work in Talent Acquisition, giving me fresh insights and practical tools I can apply every day. But it’s also opening doors to new opportunities, particularly in Learning and Development and in managing our apprenticeship programme.
One of the most rewarding aspects has been learning alongside the apprentices I support. It’s a powerful reminder that growth never stops – we’re all learning, evolving, and building our skills together.
I’m genuinely enjoying the return to structured learning. It’s pushed me to challenge myself – to reflect on my own practice and strengthen the skills that will support my personal development as well as our wider people strategy as a business.
For me, CIPD Level 3 isn’t just a qualification, it’s a springboard. It’s about growing in confidence, expanding what’s possible in my role, and contributing even more to the people-first culture we’re building.
Jack Musgrave, Back End Process Engineer
I started my career in engineering later than I would have liked to. I used a student loan to take a Higher National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering – studying part-time while working at a supermarket. It was a challenge: I did five night shifts a week, with every Monday at University. Since I had no prior experience in engineering, I had to work hard to complete the course.
Although I’ve now been in the sector for a number of years, I jumped at the opportunity to study further, particularly as I’m now surrounded by industry experts for support and guidance! Completing a full degree has been a goal of mine for some time, and this represents a great chance to progress my career. Combining my current role with more theoretical work will expand my engineering capabilities – and it’ll give me more confidence, too. I am really grateful and excited to have the opportunity.
Investing in future talent: joining the 5% Club
As we scale our technology and manufacturing capabilities, Pragmatic is committed to developing the next generation of innovators who will shape the future of sustainable electronics. That’s why we’re proud to announce that we’ve joined the 5% Club.
What is the 5% Club?
The 5% Club is a dynamic UK-wide movement of employers committed to investing in early careers. Members pledge to have at least five per cent of their workforce in ‘earn and learn’ roles – including apprenticeships, graduate schemes, and sponsored students – within five years of joining.
As employers, we’re committed to help close the skills gap, increasing social mobility and building a pipeline of talent equipped for the challenges of tomorrow. By offering meaningful opportunities for hands-on learning and development, we’re creating pathways for people to launch long-term careers in the semiconductor sector.
