Manufacturers across Britain are opening their factories and workshops on Thursday to mark National Manufacturing Day, giving schoolchildren, students and workers considering a career change a chance to see the variety of jobs the sector has to offer.

The day, now in its fourth year, aims to challenge outdated perceptions of manufacturing by showcasing the breadth of opportunities – from design and research to marketing, logistics and production.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves will host a reception with leading manufacturers this evening, praising the sector’s contribution to economic growth and its role in areas such as artificial intelligence, engineering and defence. “Our advanced manufacturing companies are world-leading,” she said. “They hold the key to economic growth, creating jobs and boosting living standards across the country. We’re supporting the sector through our 10-year modern industrial strategy – promoting business investment and making it quicker, easier and cheaper to do business in the UK.”

Stephen Phipson, chief executive of Make UK, the manufacturers’ organisation, said National Manufacturing Day was growing every year. “This is where the diverse sector comes together to celebrate British innovation and showcase the careers on offer to people of all ages,” he said.

“Our companies are at the forefront of technology development and global design, and we hope this year will encourage people who have never thought of manufacturing as their future to come and see what it’s really like. This is a highly paid sector with good jobs which offer something for everyone.”

The initiative provides more than a chance to inspire the next generation. It’s also an opportunity to build relationships with local schools, attract new talent and highlight the modern, tech-driven side of manufacturing.

Smaller firms, often competing with large corporations for skilled staff, can use open days to differentiate themselves by showcasing company culture, hands-on roles and career progression pathways.

As skills shortages remain one of the biggest challenges facing UK industry, National Manufacturing Day highlights how engagement with communities can help entrepreneurs strengthen their pipeline of talent while raising awareness of the sector’s central role in the economy.