Steph on Skills powered by Enginuity

In this unique holiday episode of 'Steph on Skills, powered by Enginuity,' Steph is joined by none other than Santa himself, to discuss the role STEM plays in engaging and inspiring the next generation of engineers. Santa shares his insights on the most requested and innovative toys, and why he believes kindness and hard work make can set people up for an exciting future. Steph and Santa also delve into how STEM and AI are used in daily life, offering advice for nurturing children's curiosity in these fields.  Plus, Santa delivers some Festive Wishes from the engineering and manufacturing industry.  Santa also offers a humorous look at how to survive the demands of the season as he shares his festive cheer. 00:00 Santa Takes Over the Show00:13 Festive Period and Santa's Insights00:57 Santa's Busy Schedule and Christmas Spirit02:23 Santa's Science and Engineering Wonders05:40 STEM and Inspiring Young Minds09:09 Festive Wishes to Support Small and Medium Businesses13:53 Gifts, Gingerbread Houses, and Final ThoughtsGet in touch with us at sospod@enginuity.orgWith special thanks to Santa from NE1 and Newcastle City Council’s ‘Newcastle’s Christmas’ in collaboration with Evnt Inspirations www.newcastleschristmas.com

In this episode, Steph speaks with multi-award winner, Richard Brigman OBE, Founder of Warren Services, and his son Will, Managing Director of the family-run business. The father-son duo, based in Norfolk, talk about the evolution and impact of apprenticeships in the engineering sector. They discuss the history of their SME contract manufacturing business and their dedication to training young talent and creating a talent pipeline.They share their innovative approach to engaging students and explain how they’ve created a long-standing relationship with local schools and the council. Plus, they reveal the personal story behind their commitment to overcoming barriers and fostering a skilled workforce.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:22 Founding the Business: A Family Affair01:59 Challenges and Evolution of Apprenticeships02:59 Engaging the Next Generation08:30 Overcoming Dyslexia and Personal Challenges10:42 Building Strong Community and Educational Partnerships17:02 Advice for Businesses and Future Workforce Development22:30 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsGet in touch with your feedback and ideas at sospod@enginuity.org.uk

In this episode of Steph on Skills powered by Enginuity, Steph meets Paul and Hannah Linden, a father-daughter duo working together for the Red Bull Formula One Team. With over two decades of experience in engineering, Paul manages the development of the 2026 race engine – or power train – making him the man who could make or break the team’s success next season. Having recently completed her apprenticeship, Hannah has followed in her father’s footstep by joining the automotive industry and is a Dimensional Quality Assurance Inspector, with the job of checking her dad’s engine components!Together they discuss their career journeys, sharing the exciting, high-paced nature of Formula One engineering and the role apprenticeships and practical skills have played in their career development. Steph also asks how we change perceptions of a career in engineering, especially for women and girls, and Hannah and Paul offer their own opinion on the topic.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction01:17 Paul's Career Journey05:07 Hannah's Career Path09:21 Encouraging the Next Generation 13:44 Challenges and Advice for Aspiring Engineers18:02 Conclusion and FarewellTo share feedback, ideas or comments you can get in touch with the podcast at sospod@enginuity.org.uk

In this episode Steph talks with Andrea Wilson, Managing Director of Hone All. Andrea sits on numerous committees and industry bodies and is a passionate campaigner, desperate to reshape the manufacturing industry so it flourishes. In this conversation she shares insights into the challenges and triumphs of running a specialist subcontract machining company, speaks honestly about the shortcomings of Further Education Colleges in providing relevant training for young people, and emphasises the dire need for governmental support tailored to SMEs. Andrea also tells us why she believes tax credits for training and development might help address the current skill gaps, and highlights the necessity for better support and ecosystem in vocational training. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:23 Overview of Hone All00:51 Diverse Range of Products01:31 Current Business Climate02:21 Challenges in Skill Acquisition03:44 Issues with Further Education08:19 Proposed Solutions for Skill Development14:37 The Importance of Vocational Training17:15 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsGet in touch with your comments, ideas and feedback at sospod@enginuity.org.uk

In this episode of Steph on Skills, Steph returns to Harland & Wolff – the iconic Belfast shipyard – to chat with a dynamic group of apprentices carving out careers in welding and steelwork. The group includes people from vastly different backgrounds, ages, and life stages, each sharing their inspiring journey into engineering.From rediscovering passions in their 30s to juggling parenting with training, the apprentices talk about the ups and downs, the skills they’ve learned, and the strong sense of community that powers their progress. 00:00 – Welcome Back to Harland & Wolff01:00 – Meet Naomi: From Farming to Fabrication02:30 – Meet Andole: The 17-Year-Old with Big Dreams03:45 – Meet Dean: The Apprentice Dad05:00 – Meet Lisa: From Milking Cows to Steelwork06:30 – Building a Diverse, Supportive Culture08:00 – Finding Belonging and Breaking Barriers09:00 – Juggling Work, Study, and Parenting10:15 – Why They Chose Apprenticeships11:30 – What Skills Do You Really Need?13:30 – The Power of Communication & Community14:30 – Job Security and Career Opportunities15:30 – Advice for Anyone at a Crossroads16:30 – Ambitions: From Supervisor to CEO17:45 – Final Thoughts and FarewellGet in touch with the podcast with your comments, feedback and ideas via sospod@enginuity.org.uk

In this episode of Steph on Skills powered by Enginuity, host Steph McGovern is joined by Kat Thorne, Head of Talent and Culture, and Brian Welsh, also known as Mr. Apprentice, from Harland & Wolff in Belfast. Broadcasting from the iconic Titanic Room, the discussion delves into the rich history of the shipyard, its cultural significance, and the community spirit that defines the workplace. Brian shares his personal journey from an apprentice in 1980 to a managerial role, explaining the importance of passing down skills to the new generation. Kat outlines recent developments, including a significant investment from Spanish shipbuilding company Navantia aimed at reviving and modernising the yard, with an emphasis on integration of new technologies, digital innovations, and advanced training programmes. They also discuss the company's focus on building new Navy vessels, the diverse career opportunities available, and the importance of fostering a supportive, family-like atmosphere for apprentices. 00:00 Welcome to Steph on Skills00:39 The Iconic History of Harland & Wolff02:10 A Community Like No Other02:39 Brian's Journey from Apprentice to Manager04:34 Reviving Shipbuilding in Belfast07:10 The Future of Shipbuilding: Innovation and Skills08:41 Finding the Right Fit: Apprenticeship Stories10:52 Qualifications and Attitude: What We Look For11:49 Understanding the Roles: Speed Worker vs. Welder12:43 Workplace Environment and Regeneration13:37 Expanding Apprenticeships Beyond Technical Roles14:30 Importance of People in Engineering15:38 Innovative Training Methods17:27 Defence Industry Opportunities18:57 Changing Gender Dynamics in Trades19:29 Personal Stories and Mentorship21:15 Parental Role and Support22:01 Conclusion and Next Episode TeaserGet in touch with the podcast with your comments, feedback and ideas via sospod@enginuity.org.uk

Steph on Skills landed the interview that everyone was clamouring to secure.Minister for Skills, Baroness Jacqui Smith, unveils the Government’s new plan to rejuvenate skills provision and her desire to put some ‘oomph’ into her colleagues at Westminster.Steph and the Minister, in a no holes barred 45-minute conversation, talk of their passion re-educate the media and politicians, on the importance of skilling people of all ages.Jacqui Smith talks of the UK’s ‘hideous waste of talent’, with nearly a million young people not in education, employment or training and her wish to ensure that vocational training never retreats to the shadows of academia. Having taken time out from supporting Team UK, at the EuroSkill Finals in Herning, Denmark, the Minister tries her hand at live reporting and reveals that she has tried her hand at welding!

In the first of three special episodes recorded on site in the Titanic Room at the historic shipbuilding firm, Harland and Wolff, in Belfast, host Steph McGovern is joined by guests Elita Frid and Susan Hayes Culleton to talk about their collaborative project, Engineering Across the Border and how it is tackling the skills crisis across Ireland.  As Education and Industry Engagement Manager for MEGA (Manufacturing & Engineering Growth & Advancement) – a collaborative network in Northern Ireland, that promotes manufacturing and engineering as sources of high-value employment -  Elita leads various educational initiatives to inspire careers in manufacturing and engineering, and she shares why she is so passionate about careers in STEM.  Susan is CEO of Savvy Teens, an Irish business providing transition year work experiences for companies in Ireland. She is also the author of seven books, including five textbooks for teenagers, and a national radio presenter.  Their initiative, funded by Inter Trade Ireland, connects schools with industry to provide hands-on experience in engineering and manufacturing.  Together they discuss the importance of work experiences, structured support, and cross-border collaboration in preparing students for the workforce.  The conversation also highlights the need for scalable models and broader industry participation to address skill mismatches in today's rapidly evolving job market. 00:00 Welcome to Steph on Skills00:07 Meet Our Guests: Elita Frid and Susan Hayes Culleton00:31 Elita's Journey in STEM Outreach02:25 Susan's Passion for Skills Development05:14 Engineering Across the Border: A Collaborative Project07:56 Understanding the Education Systems12:46 Impact and Future Goals20:02 How to Get Involved21:35 Conclusion and Contact Information  Get in touch with the podcast with your comments, feedback and ideas via sospod@enginuity.org.uk 

In this episode, Steph McGovern is joined by special guests and young learners to unveil ‘Vocational Celebration Day’ created and driven by Enginuity and EAL – the first of which will be held on August 6th 2026. Newcastle College's Assistant Principal Catherine Orridge shares how the college is working to fulfil its goal to ‘unlock potential’ for anyone who wants to engage in their diverse range of courses and, alongside Al Parkes, Managing Director of EAL and a member of Enginuity’s Executive Leadership Team, they talk about the importance of celebrating vocational achievements.  Mohammed Mahmood, who earned the title ‘Best of British’ at the Enginuity Skills Awards 2025, reveals his inspiring personal journey as an apprentice, and Alexia Williams, Technical Lead in the defence sector at Rolls-Royce, details why she is a passionate advocate for STEM apprenticeships. Ben Blackledge, CEO, for WorldSkills UK also joins Steph to explain how the WorldSkills UK Centre of Excellence programme is changing the UK’s skills landscape.