Midway Contract Electronics Ltd – Empowering Growth Through Targeted Training

As a small electronics manufacturing business, Midway Contract Electronics faced a critical challenge: maintaining the efficiency and effectiveness of their key machines, which are essential to their production process. However, skill shortages within the team and a lack of in-depth knowledge of the machines led to increased downtime and higher scrap rates, ultimately affecting both time and costs.

Midway sought a solution to enhance their team’s proficiency with one of their key machines. They decided to invest in specialised training to deepen their understanding and operational efficiency. This training was made possible through a UK Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF) grant, which provided 100% funding, significantly easing the financial burden on the business.  The grant was part of an UKSPF programme managed by Stoke-on-Trent City Council and delivered by Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce’s Skills Hub.

The training was provided by Mycronics, the manufacturer of the machine, based in Poole, Dorset. As they were the creators of the machine, Mycronics were the only appropriate provider for the training to ensure that the team gained the most relevant, machine-specific knowledge.

Since completing the training, the results have been highly positive for Midway Contract Electronics.

• Reduced Downtime: The team now has a much better understanding of how to maintain and operate the machine, leading to a significant reduction in machine downtime.
• Lower Scrap Rates: As the team’s skills have improved, the number of defective or scrap components has decreased, leading to more efficient production.
• Time and Cost Savings: These improvements have resulted in valuable time and cost savings, ultimately enhancing the business’s bottom line.

“The process and support from the (Skills Hub) team to arrange the grant made the whole process simple and straightforward. The knowledge gained from this training for a small business like Midway has been invaluable. 100% funding of this made all this happen. Thank you for your continued support in our growth as a business.”

When they were asked if they would recommend this grant to other businesses, “Yes, 100%. The training has had a tangible impact on our business operations, and the ease of access to funding makes it an excellent opportunity for other businesses facing similar challenges.”

Midway Contract Electronics Ltd have seen measurable improvements in both efficiency and cost savings as a result of targeted training, funded by this grant. By addressing the skill gap, the company has improved its operations and solidified its growth. This case highlights the importance of investing in the skills development of staff, especially for small businesses striving for growth in competitive industries.

To speak to the Stoke-on-Trent & Staffordshire Skills Hub about support, training and funding streams email: skillshub@staffordshirechambers.co.uk