MTC Event in Coventry: Insights, Debate, and Exciting Opportunities

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Earlier this month, our Managing Director, Will Bridgman and Founder Owner, Richard Bridgman headed to the MTC (Manufacturing Technologies Centre) in Coventry for a major industry event. The trip followed a late night in Cambridge, entertaining potential clients with exciting project opportunities for Warren. The previous day had also been packed with activity, as Will followed up on defence sector contacts in Norwich, culminating in a meeting with the Defence Minister – a key step in Warren’s growing involvement in the sector.

What is the MTC?

The MTC provides transformative manufacturing advice to businesses across the UK, helping to drive innovation, efficiency and sustainability in the industry. The event brought together manufacturers from across the country, providing valuable networking opportunities and discussions on the future of UK manufacturing.

Will Bridgman on the Sustainability Panel

Will was invited to take part in a panel discussion in the auditorium, covering sustainability in manufacturing—a subject that is becoming increasingly critical to businesses and policymakers alike. The panel featured Henrik Von Scheel, a highly respected thought leader in the field, as the keynote speaker.

A heated debate on renewable energy

One of the memorable moments of the day came when Will and Henrik clashed on the topic of solar panels and wind energy. The debate became quite intense, with strong words exchanged as both defended their perspectives. However, after a lively discussion Henrik ultimately conceded to Will’s points – a testament to Will’s deep knowledge and passion for the topic.

The discussions continued into the evening at the event’s formal dinner. Richard found himself seated next to Henrik and despite the earlier debate, they managed to get along well. Will wisely, was seated at another table – probably for the best after such an energetic exchange!

The MTC event was a fantastic opportunity for Warren to engage with industry leaders, explore new ideas and strengthen our presence in the manufacturing and defence sectors. Events like these are essential in helping us stay at the forefront of innovation and sustainability – and of course, in ensuring that our voice is heard in the wider industry conversations.

We’re looking forward to turning these connections into opportunities and continuing to push boundaries in sustainable and high-tech manufacturing.

Welcome to the Team: Ella Joins Warren’s Quality Department

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At Warren, we are always excited to welcome new talent to our team and this February, we were pleased to have Ella Cade join our quality department as a Level 3 Business Administration Apprentice.

A new career journey

Ella has made an exciting career transition, moving from a role as a teaching assistant in a local primary school to pursuing an apprenticeship in business administration. This change reflects her eagerness to develop new skills and gain valuable experience in a manufacturing and engineering environment.

As part of the quality department, Ella will play an important role in ensuring that Warren’s high standards are maintained across all aspects of our work. Business administration is a key function in manufacturing, supporting operations, compliance and efficiency – so we are thrilled to have Ella on board as she embarks on this journey.

Getting to know Ella

Outside of work, Ella enjoys spending time at home with her cat and making memories with family. Her passion for organisation and dedication to learning make her a fantastic addition to the Warren team.

We are delighted to support Ella through her apprenticeship, helping her develop her skills and progress in her career. We look forward to seeing her grow in her role and make a valuable contribution to the team.

Welcome to Warren, Ella!

Opening Doors to Future Talent: Warren’s Apprenticeship Open Evening

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We are passionate about investing in the next generation of engineers and manufacturers. As part of National Apprenticeship Week in February, we hosted our annual Apprenticeship Open Evening, offering potential apprentices and their parents/carers the opportunity to learn more about our exciting apprenticeship programme.

Engaging with future engineers

The evening provided an invaluable chance to connect with parents and carers, helping them understand what an apprenticeship at Warren involves. We know that choosing an apprenticeship is a big decision and having the support of family can make a huge difference in a young person’s career journey.

Will led a guided tour of our Brickfields Way facility, giving attendees a behind-the-scenes look at the kind of work we do and the opportunities available to apprentices. Throughout the evening, we answered questions about career progression, training and the hands-on experience apprentices can expect at Warren.

The recruitment process is underway

Following the event, we have already begun work placements as part of our recruitment process. These placements offer candidates a real insight into working life at Warren, allowing them to demonstrate their enthusiasm and aptitude for a career in engineering and manufacturing.

Additional placements will be taking place over the Easter holidays and we will be making our final selection by the start of May.

Apprenticeships at Warren: September 2025 intake

Once again, we are recruiting four Level 2 Engineering Operative apprentices, who will start their apprenticeships in September 2025. These apprenticeships provide a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on experience, develop specialist skills and kick-start a rewarding career in engineering.

We are committed to supporting and training the next generation of skilled engineers, ensuring they have the knowledge and experience needed to succeed in the industry.

It was fantastic to meet so many enthusiastic young people and supportive parents at our Apprenticeship Open Evening. We look forward to welcoming our next cohort of apprentices later this year and seeing them develop into skilled professionals within our team.

Supporting Local Talent: Warren Attends Norfolk Apprenticeships Network Meeting

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At Warren, we are always looking for ways to support and invest in future talent, so attending the Norfolk Apprenticeships Network Meeting on Wednesday, 26th February was a great opportunity to connect with other local employers and discuss the latest apprenticeship initiatives.

Meeting at Able2B – Supporting Inclusivity Through Physical Activity

The meeting was held at Able2B in Norwich, an inspiring organisation dedicated to supporting children and adults with disabilities through physical activity. Able2B runs group classes and one-to-one sessions to help improve fitness levels, build self-confidence and promote inclusion. Their work aligns with our values of providing opportunities for people to develop and thrive, regardless of background or ability.

Norfolk Apprenticeships: A Positive Growth Story

One of the key takeaways from the meeting was the fantastic rise in apprenticeship starts across Norfolk. Compared to a national increase of just 1.32%, Norfolk has seen a remarkable 11% rise – a testament to the dedication of local businesses, training providers  and young professionals eager to gain industry skills.

At Warren, we are proud to contribute to this growth by providing hands-on training, mentorship  and career development opportunities for apprentices. Skilled workers are the backbone of the manufacturing and engineering sectors  and we believe in nurturing the next generation of talent.

Connecting with Local Employers

The meeting also provided a great platform for networking with other local businesses that employ apprentices, exchanging ideas and identifying opportunities to collaborate on initiatives that could enhance training and employment prospects in the region. Engaging with these networks ensures that Warren stays at the forefront of workforce development, helping us attract skilled and motivated individuals to our team.

We are excited about the positive momentum in apprenticeships across Norfolk and look forward to exploring how Warren can continue to support and grow opportunities for young people in engineering and manufacturing.

If you’re interested in an apprenticeship or career at Warren, keep an eye on our website for opportunities – or get in touch to learn more!

Three of our apprentices started at Reagit this week

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At Warren, we’re proud to support the next generation of engineering talent. This week, three of our promising apprentices, Alfie McElvogue, Tadas Difartas, and Reino Monument, have started their six weeks of study at Reagit in Norwich. This marks the first step in their journey towards achieving their Level 2 Engineering Operative qualification.

During their time at Reagit, Alfie, Tadas, and Reino are gaining essential theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills that will form the foundation of their careers in manufacturing and engineering. After completing this intensive study period, they’ll return to Warren to begin their factory rotations, where they’ll apply what they’ve learned in a real-world setting.

We’re excited to watch these apprentices grow and develop their expertise, and we’re confident they’ll become invaluable members of the Warren team. Supporting apprenticeships is a key part of our commitment to nurturing talent and helping shape the future of engineering.

The Plantlife Project: Supporting Biodiversity

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We’re always on the lookout for opportunities to contribute to our community and environment. Recently, we had an exciting encounter that aligns perfectly with our commitment to sustainability and conservation. During a lunchtime walk, Ian, Becky, and Sophie spotted Jo Jones from Plantlife outside our Brickfields factory, and it turns out she’s working on a fascinating project that we’re thrilled to support.

The Field Wormwood project

Jo Jones, who gave an inspiring talk at the Thetford Business Forum in July, is involved in a crucial conservation project at Plantlife. The focus of her work is the reintroduction of a rare plant called Field Wormwood to our local area. This plant is critically endangered and can only be found in two sites across the entire UK. Interestingly, the most thriving population is located on an industrial estate on London Road in Brandon.

Field Wormwood has seen its habitat diminish due to the increasing nutrient levels in the soil and the encroachment of building projects. However, verges on industrial estates, like those around our Brickfields factory, present an ideal environment for this plant. These verges are remnants of old heathland that have never been fertilised or sprayed, providing the perfect sandy and chalky soils that Field Wormwood thrives in.

A unique ecological relationship

One of the most intriguing aspects of the Field Wormwood project is its connection to a rare beetle known as the Moonshine beetle. This beetle has a unique and exclusive relationship with the Field Wormwood. In the autumn, the Moonshine beetle climbs the flower stalks of the Field Wormwood to eat its seeds. What’s remarkable is that this beetle has only ever been found in areas where Field Wormwood grows, despite extensive searches elsewhere. This rare plant and beetle duo highlight the importance of preserving such unique and delicate ecosystems.

Warren’s role in the project

It turns out that our MD Will had already been in touch with Jo to explore whether our sites might be suitable for assisting with this vital conservation effort. As we completed our walk, we saw Tim from The Horticulture Industry Scheme C.I.C. was deep in conversation with Jo, discussing the best locations to plant Field Wormwood at our sites. Their goal is to ensure that these rare plants are protected and thrive without interference from regular maintenance activities.

We’re excited to be part of this project and to contribute to the preservation of such a rare species. By reintroducing Field Wormwood to suitable areas around our industrial estates, we’re helping to safeguard not only the plant but also the unique Moonshine beetle that relies on it.

This collaboration with Plantlife is just one of the ways Warren is committed to supporting biodiversity and environmental sustainability. We’re proud to play a role in this project and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our local ecosystem.

Welcoming David: Our New Mechanical Engineering Intern

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At Warren, we’re committed to nurturing the next generation of engineering talent, and we’re thrilled to introduce David, our new Mechanical Engineering Intern. David joins us for his work placement year as part of his Aerospace Engineering degree from Leicester University. At just 19 years old, David brings a fresh perspective, a passion for engineering and a wealth of experiences that make him a valuable addition to our team.

David’s background and education

David’s journey in engineering began during his A-Level studies, where he gained hands-on experience working part-time at a saw servicing company. This early exposure to the mechanical aspects of engineering sparked his interest and led him to pursue a degree in Aerospace Engineering. Now in his placement year, David is eager to apply his academic knowledge in a real-world setting at Warren.

A passion for the outdoors and volunteering

When David isn’t immersed in his studies or working at Warren, he loves to explore the great outdoors. Cycling through the countryside is one of his favourite ways to unwind and stay active. His love for nature also extends to his volunteer work. As part of his Duke of Edinburgh Award, David volunteered with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust at Lackford Lakes.

Ambitions and future plans

David’s ambitions extend beyond his current studies. He’s particularly excited about the prospect of joining the Formula Student Team during his Master’s degree, where he hopes to contribute to the design and development of an ultimate racing car. His experience as a CAD design engineer during his second year at university, where he worked on a Beetle weight BattleBot project, has equipped him with practical skills and a keen understanding of the engineering design process.

Looking ahead

David’s enthusiasm for learning and his dedication to his craft make him an excellent fit for Warren. As he begins this work placement year, we’re excited to see how he’ll contribute to our projects and grow as a budding engineer. David is eager to gain as much experience as possible during his time with us, and we’re confident that his time at Warren will be both productive and enriching.

Welcoming Natalia: Our New Business Admin Apprentice at Warren

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We’re delighted to introduce Natalia, who has recently joined us as a Business Admin Apprentice. With her passion for learning and strong dedication to her family, Natalia brings a fresh perspective to our team.

Natalia’s background and career transition

Natalia comes to us with a background in Childcare, having spent several years working with children. As a proud mother of two boys, Natalia’s experience in nurturing and managing a dynamic environment is impressive. Her decision to switch career paths reflects her eagerness to explore new challenges and develop a broad set of skills in a different field.

The transition from Childcare to Business Administration is a bold move, and Natalia is excited about the opportunity to grow and learn within a new professional setting. She believes that Warren is the ideal place to embark on this journey, and we couldn’t agree more.

A family-oriented life

Outside of work, Natalia’s life is very much centered around her family. She enjoys spending her spare time with her two boys, engaging in creative arts and crafts projects, and exploring the great outdoors. Whether it’s taking walks with their Shih-Tzu or finding new ways to stay active together, Natalia values the quality time she spends with her family.

Looking forward to new opportunities

As Natalia steps into her new role at Warren, she is keen to contribute to the team’s success while expanding her own knowledge and abilities. The warm welcome she has received from our staff has made her feel at home, and she’s eager to dive into her work and start making a difference.

We’re confident that Natalia’s dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment to personal growth will make her a valuable addition to our team.

Meet Harry, a New Member of our Team

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At Warren, we believe that our people are the foundation of our success. That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce Harry, the latest addition to our Milling department. With his extensive experience and passion for learning, Harry is a perfect fit for our team, and we’re excited to have him on board.

Harry’s journey to Warren

Harry recently made the move to Suffolk after spending many years in Rickmansworth. Before joining Warren, he worked at Martin-Baker, a company renowned for manufacturing ejection seats for aircraft. As a CNC programmer, Harry was responsible for machining critical components, a role he excelled in for over 13 years.

His journey in manufacturing began with an advanced apprenticeship at Martin-Baker, where he honed his skills and gained invaluable experience in CNC programming. Now, Harry brings that expertise to Warren, where he is eager to apply his knowledge in our Milling department and continue his professional growth.

Why Harry chose Suffolk

Harry’s move to Suffolk was driven by a desire for a better work-life balance. With a growing family (Harry and his wife are expecting their third child in September), Suffolk offered the perfect setting. The move has provided them with more space and the opportunity to spend quality time together as a family. When he’s not at work, Harry enjoys exploring the beautiful Suffolk countryside with his daughters.

When he’s not busy in the workshop or exploring Suffolk, Harry enjoys cooking and indulging in a bit of PC gaming.

Looking ahead

Harry is enthusiastic about the new challenges and opportunities that lie ahead at Warren. He’s looking forward to learning new skills, getting to know his colleagues better, and contributing to the team’s success.

We’re delighted to have Harry join us and can’t wait to see the positive impact he’ll make at Warren. We wish him all the best as he settles into his new role and prepares for the exciting arrival of his third child!