This article was initially published in the Derry Journal on May 15th
Despite rapid advances in digital technology, automation, and artificial intelligence, our economy continues to rely on people who make things.
If you listen to the doomsayers, you might think that technology is replacing traditional industry. The reality is that the industry is being transformed, not replaced, by this technology. Modern manufacturing is no longer defined by repetitive manual labour alone; it is a sophisticated blend of advanced machinery, digital systems, and highly skilled people. Engineers, technicians, designers, and operators are working alongside cutting edge technologies to create products that are exported across the world. The human role has evolved, not diminished.
The strength of our local sector underlines this point. Manufacturing accounts for 13.4 per cent of total economic output, contributing more than £6 billion and making it the second largest sector after retail and wholesale. It is even clearer when looking at employment. Manufacturing accounts for 17 per cent of private sector jobs and now has returned to providing almost 100,000 direct roles. When indirect employment is included, the sector supports around 250,000 jobs, equating to a quarter of all employment.
Manufacturing represents only six per cent of the total private business population, yet it generates 21 per cent of turnover. For every £1 million the sector produces, the wider economic value rises to £1.7 million, demonstrating a powerful multiplier effect that benefits other industries, from logistics to professional services.
It is why AMIC, Barclays, Carbonfit, KPMG, Mills Selig, Netcompany, Reliance and Vickerstock join Manufacturing NI celebrate May as Manufacturing Month.
Technology has undoubtedly accelerated productivity and opened new possibilities, but it has not removed the need for people. On the contrary, it has increased the demand for skilled individuals who can design, operate, and improve complex systems. The future of manufacturing will depend on continued investment in skills, innovation, and people who can adapt to a rapidly changing environment.
In a world increasingly shaped by digital advances, making things still matters. It matters for economic stability, for jobs, and for strong communities. Northern Ireland’s manufacturing sector shows that even in an age of automation, people remain at the heart of production.
Recent Comments