Students and banks in tune with manufacturing

The Made in the Midlands exhibition at the Banks's Stadium in Walsall this week showcased some of the region's manufacturing firms and provided an opportunity for students to see what the world of industry is like. Gordon Mills, director of business engagement at Black Country UTC, said ways needed to be found to make a career in engineering more appealing to young people. The students will also be getting the chance to come up with their own invention via the Made in the Midlands young inventor award to be held in October. Successful projects already started by students include turning old records into cash (seepicture). Barclays' Ray O'Donogue believed the bank's relationship with Made in the Midlands was an opportunity to recognise and celebrate excellence in the sector and to work with regional businesses to forge further links.