A record number of entries has been received for this year’s Leeds Manufacturing Festival Awards, as industrial firms across Yorkshire step up recruitment while other sectors cut entry-level positions.

The awards, which take place this week, attracted 45 nominations from 19 companies, an increase from 38 entries spanning 18 businesses last year. Organisers state the figures reflect a broader push by regional employers to secure long-term pipelines of younger workers.

To reflect changing career paths, two new categories have been introduced this year: Graduate of the Year and Mentor of the Year. The additions are intended to highlight skills development and workplace support. The scheme operates alongside the wider Leeds Manufacturing Festival, an initiative established to improve young people's perceptions of engineering and modern manufacturing.

Ben Wilson, managing director of MPM Group and spokesperson for the festival, said: “The quality and volume of entries this year has been incredibly encouraging and reflects the strength of talent coming through into the manufacturing and engineering industry across our region.

“What stands out is the ambition and professionalism of so many young people entering the industry. Employers are telling us they are seeing their apprentices, graduates and other talented younger employees bringing fresh ideas, embracing technology and developing quickly into leadership roles.

“At the same time, there are still far too many young people who are struggling to find opportunities. With youth unemployment continuing to rise and close to a million young people nationally not in education, employment or training, there is an urgent need to show that in the manufacturing sector we can offer secure, rewarding and highly skilled careers.

“One of the biggest challenges our sector has faced historically has been outdated perceptions. The reality is very different. Modern manufacturing is innovative, technology-driven and full of opportunities to progress. The response to this year’s awards shows more talented young people than ever are starting to recognise that and opting for careers in the industry.”

He added: “The Leeds Manufacturing Festival Awards are really important because they celebrate many of the amazing people succeeding in the industry here in Leeds and provide great role models for others who may never previously have considered manufacturing as an option.”

The full lineup of categories includes Apprentice of the Year, Rising Star, Future Manufacturing Leader, Mentor of the Year, Graduate of the Year, SME Employer of the Year, and Large Employer of the Year. A Manufacturing Ambassador Award will also be presented to individuals advocating for regional industrial collaboration.

The presentation evening will take place at Leeds Beckett University on 4 June.