Made Smarter North West has introduced a new peer-to-peer network aimed at accelerating digital adoption among SME manufacturers. The Digital Champions Network brings together businesses involved in Made Smarter’s adoption program, including alumni from its Leading Digital Transformation and Leading Change for Digital Champions programs.
This initiative connects employees engaged in digitalisation at various levels of their organisations, from senior management to shop floor workers, across different stages of technology adoption. Throughout the year, both in-person and online events will be held to facilitate the sharing of experiences and learning, fostering long-lasting professional connections.
The network’s launch event at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Liverpool drew businesses from various sectors, including CNC Robotics, Palace Chemicals, JFM Workwear, Farrat, Gardner Engineering, Majas Switchgear, and Beagle Orthopaedic. The event featured a panel discussion on digital transformation with Max Barnett of CNC Robotics, Made Smarter’s technology adoption specialists Will Kinghorn and Claire Scott, and MTC’s Mark Sutherberry.
Following the panel, Karen Lancaster from the Centre for People-Led Digitalisation conducted a workshop on the role of dignity in the workplace and how it can be impacted by technology. The event concluded with a tour of the MTC, showcasing advanced manufacturing equipment and its applications to enhance skills, productivity, and growth in UK manufacturing.
Ruth Hailwood, organisation development lead for the Made Smarter North West Adoption Programme, emphasized the network’s potential for sustainable impact. “The Digital Champions Network allows manufacturers to share their digital transformation journeys and insights, creating a significant impact for their businesses and the broader SME manufacturing community,” she said. “Our Leading Digital Transformation and Leading Change for Digital Champions programs have already established strong connections among participants, and the Digital Champions Network aims to extend these benefits to all manufacturers engaging with Made Smarter.”
Mark Sutherberry, senior business development manager at the MTC, highlighted the synergy between Made Smarter’s initiatives and the MTC’s objectives. “Made Smarter’s approach aligns with our best practices in supporting sustainable, high-impact technology and skills adoption for manufacturers. Hosting the launch of the Digital Champions Network has been a pleasure, as it brings together the North West’s SME manufacturing community to learn about digital transformation and innovation.”
Max Barnett, Sales and Marketing Engineer at CNC Robotics, underscored the importance of the digital champion role within businesses. “Digital champions act as internal advocates for necessary changes to drive progress. This network is a fantastic platform for those involved in digital change to exchange ideas and experiences,” he noted.
Angela Murphy, accounts manager for Majas Switchgear, praised the network’s value. “Made Smarter’s digital roadmap and Leading Digital Transformation program have been immensely beneficial for us, and these networking events enhance that learning. Being able to converse with other manufacturers about their digital journeys is incredibly helpful.”
Since its launch in 2019, Made Smarter has engaged with 2,500 manufacturers, providing support through grant funding, impartial technology advice, and leadership and skills training, significantly transforming businesses across the region.