In a significant move to highlight the innovative prowess of Northern England, a premier partnership has been announced for the upcoming Great Exhibition of the North. Scheduled from June 22nd to September 9th in Newcastle and Gateshead, this event aims to celebrate local design, culture, and technological advancements.
BAE Systems, a leading player in the defence, aerospace, and security sectors, has joined as a key partner, reinforcing its commitment to regional growth and talent development.
Strategic Partnership Announcement
BAE Systems has recently secured a prominent role as a premier partner for the Great Exhibition of the North, set to occur from June 22nd to September 9th, in Newcastle and Gateshead. This significant, government-endorsed exhibition aims to celebrate the rich heritage of design and innovation originating from Northern England. It holds a mission to foster a bright and prosperous future for local engineering and manufacturing sectors.
Commenting on this notable partnership, Chris Boardman, Group Managing Director for BAE Systems Air, stated, “We’re very proud to be part of the Great Exhibition of the North, which celebrates the skills, products, and contributions made in the North.” He emphasized the company’s leadership in several advanced engineering projects and its commitment to maintaining a robust talent pool for future employees.
Company’s Commitment to the Region
BAE Systems is the UK’s largest defence, aerospace, and security company, with more than 18,000 employees based in Northern England, constituting over half of its UK workforce. In 2016, the company was responsible for £11.1 billion of the UK’s GDP, reflecting its substantial impact on the local economy through the creation of highly skilled jobs and investment in community initiatives.
In line with its commitment to fostering talent, BAE Systems invested £15.6 million in a new Academy of Skills & Knowledge in Lancashire in 2016. This state-of-the-art training facility has since provided over 250,000 hours of training, welcoming more than 550 apprentices and graduates through its doors.
High-Profile Endorsements
The Great Exhibition of the North has attracted a wealth of support from distinguished figures. Sir Gary Verity, Chair of the event, expressed his elation at having BAE Systems as a premier partner. He highlighted the company’s reputation as a leading and innovative Northern employer, perfectly aligned with the exhibition’s objectives.
Verity remarked, “There are fewer than six months to go until the Exhibition opens on Newcastle Gateshead’s iconic Quayside, showcasing the innovative technological and creative practice coming out of the North of England. BAE Systems is a company at the forefront of driving this innovation and is a perfect fit for the Exhibition because it provides opportunities for young people aspiring to build careers in the fields of science, technology, and engineering.”
Exhibition Highlights and Features
The Great Exhibition of the North promises a range of exciting activities and showcases. With three dedicated walking trails focusing on arts and culture, design, and innovation, the event will feature the best of Northern England’s creative and technological output.
One of the highlights of the exhibition will be the unveiling of an 80-metre-long water fountain in the River Tyne, which is expected to reach the height of the Tyne Bridge. This grand opening event aims to set the tone for an inspiring and engaging exhibition experience.
Socio-economic Impact
The Great Exhibition of the North is not merely a celebration of innovation; it is also a catalyst for socio-economic growth. By attracting visitors from across the UK and beyond, the event is expected to bolster local businesses and stimulate economic activity within the region.
Additionally, the exhibition’s focus on design, engineering, and manufacturing aims to inspire the next generation of innovators, thereby ensuring a self-sustaining cycle of growth and development. It provides a platform for young talent to engage with industry leaders and gain insights into potential career paths.
Community Engagement and Legacy
Beyond the immediate economic impact, the Great Exhibition of the North seeks to leave a lasting legacy. The event is geared towards engaging local communities, fostering a sense of pride and unity among residents, and promoting Northern England as a hub of innovation.
The exhibition’s closing weekend, aptly named ‘Creating the Future,’ scheduled for 8th and 9th September, promises to be a powerful conclusion to the event. It will coincide with the world-famous Great North Run, ensuring a memorable and impactful end to the exhibition.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, the partnership between the Great Exhibition of the North and leading companies like BAE Systems sets a precedent for future collaborations aimed at regional development and innovation. This partnership model highlights the importance of synergy between industry leaders and community-driven initiatives.
Such collaborations not only enhance the visibility of Northern England’s contributions to design and technology but also pave the way for sustained investment and progress within the region.
The Great Exhibition of the North stands as a landmark event, underscoring the significance of regional innovation and community engagement. The involvement of prominent partners like BAE Systems highlights the collaborative efforts driving forward socio-economic growth.
As the event draws closer, anticipation builds for an inspiring showcase of Northern England’s contributions to design and technology. The exhibition promises to leave a lasting legacy, fostering a new era of innovation and development.