West Yorkshire has long been the heart of the UK’s textile industry. This sector thrives on craftsmanship, innovation and world‑class manufacturing. At West Yorkshire Combined Authority, we’re committed to keeping this legacy alive. We will equip the workforce and employers with the skills needed to grow, compete and innovate.
Our fully funded skills training programme is designed with purpose. Each course is shaped by real labour market insights from local employers and councils. This ensures our training meets the needs of our businesses and the workforce in our region. For employers, this means access to a skilled workforce. For individuals, it means gaining practical expertise that can lead to new opportunities and career progression.
One business embracing this opportunity is AW Hainsworth & Sons Ltd., a renowned textile manufacturer in Pudsey. Globally respected for producing durable wool fabrics like melton and doeskin, AW Hainsworth has supplied the British Army for generations, including the iconic scarlet cloth for the Grenadier Guards.
Despite its rich heritage, AW Hainsworth is focused on the future. That’s where our Skills Bootcamps come in.
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Angela Augusto, Technical and Innovation Manager at AW Hainsworth, recently completed our Skills Bootcamp in textile manufacturing. For Angela, the experience was transformative.
The programme allowed her to visit various Yorkshire mills. She gained first‑hand insight into their operations, equipment and evolving practices. From sustainability initiatives to process optimisation, Angela explored how different manufacturers adapt to industry challenges and opportunities.
This exposure gave her a clearer understanding of the full end‑to‑end manufacturing landscape and where innovation can make a significant impact. For AW Hainsworth, this means fresh ideas, improved efficiency and a stronger competitive edge.
Stories like Angela’s show the real value of our Skills Bootcamps. They empower employees to grow while helping businesses strengthen their workforce, adopt new technologies and future‑proof operations.
By investing in skills today, we support the long‑term success of West Yorkshire’s industries - from textiles to tech and beyond.
Whether you're looking to advance your career or strengthen your workforce, our free training programmes are here to help.
