To mark National Apprenticeship Week and celebrate our year-round investment in future talent, we’re sharing real stories from our apprentices working across CNC machining, quality, manufacturing engineering and commercial roles. Each one brings a different perspective, but they all have something in common: a drive to learn, grow, and build something that lasts.

What Engineering Apprenticeships Offer

Apprenticeships are a great route into engineering for those who want to learn on the job, earn while they study, and develop skills that employers value.

At Accura, our apprenticeships include:

• Paid, hands-on experience in precision manufacturing
• Nationally recognised qualifications from Level 3 to degree level
• Structured support from mentors, team leaders and HR
• Real responsibility in areas like CNC machining, inspection and project planning

Whether you’re interested in the shop floor or the commercial side of engineering, our programme is designed to help you grow into a confident, capable professional.

Real Stories from Accura Apprentices

Every apprentice brings their own goals, challenges and background but they all share one thing: a desire to grow.

One of our Level 4 Engineering Manufacturing Technician apprentices started out feeling like they didn’t belong. With time, mentoring and encouragement, they developed the confidence to lead customer projects, manage planning, and quote work independently. Their advice to new starters? “If you feel unsure, that’s normal. Trust the process, take ownership, and you’ll get there.”

Another apprentice on the Level 6 Manufacturing Engineering Degree pathway is blending commercial insight with technical knowledge. Balancing a client-facing role with her studies, she’s strengthened her ability to support customers and grown her confidence along the way.

Our shop floor team includes apprentices working through the Level 2 and 3 Advanced Manufacturing Machinist pathway. Some joined with limited experience, but quickly found their feet in machining and inspection. They’ve gained both technical skills and self-belief and now have a clear view of where they’re headed.

Quality and precision are key to what we do. One apprentice following the Level 4 Quality Practitioner Standard began with just a week of work experience. Now working toward his qualification, he’s thriving in a fast-paced, hands-on environment where no two days are the same.

Others are specialising in toolmaking and die maintenance. One of our apprentices on the Level 2 and 3 Toolmaker and Tool & Die Maintenance Technician route values the space Accura provides to think critically, solve problems, and grow at his own pace.

We also have a Level 3 Engineering Technician (Mechatronics) apprentice who was inspired by a family member in the trade. Now he plays a part in delivering components used in aerospace platforms and takes great pride in the impact of his work.

Why Accura’s Apprenticeship Programme Works

We don’t believe in ticking boxes or filling quotas. Our apprenticeship programme is built around people and helping them unlock their potential through:

• Real responsibility from early on
• Clear progression routes
• Supportive line managers and experienced mentors
• Flexible options including degree and technical apprenticeships
• A culture that values growth, not perfection

Many of our current engineers, team leaders and managers began as apprentices. That’s something we’re proud of.

What Our Apprentices Say to Future Engineers

Thinking about an apprenticeship? Here’s what some of our apprentices want you to know:

Ask questions, it’s how you grow.
No one expects you to have all the answers on day one. Apprentices often say they were surprised by how willing people were to help once they spoke up. Being curious and getting stuck in makes all the difference.

You don’t need to feel confident to start.
Several apprentices admitted they felt out of their depth in the beginning. But they quickly found their stride. With every task and challenge, they proved to themselves they could do more than they thought. Self-doubt fades when you focus on progress.

Trust your instincts and be open to trying new things.
The biggest breakthroughs often come from stepping outside your comfort zone. Whether it’s using a new machine, speaking up in a team meeting, or taking the lead on a small task—growth starts with having a go.

Your team is there to support you.
From line managers to mentors, there’s always someone ready to guide you. The key is to reach out, ask for feedback, and use those conversations to develop your skills.

Say yes to every opportunity to learn.
The most successful apprentices are the ones who see every task as a learning experience. Whether it’s shadowing a colleague or tackling a problem head-on, real growth comes from doing, reflecting, and trying again.

Through hands-on learning, our apprentices are building the skills and confidence they need for long, successful careers in engineering.

Apprenticeships Power the Future of UK Manufacturing

The UK engineering sector faces a growing skills gap. Apprenticeships are one of the most effective ways to close it and to prepare for the future.

By investing in our people, Accura is investing in long-term performance, innovation and resilience. From shop floor to commercial, we’re building capability that lasts.

We’re not just training people to do a job. We’re helping them build careers and helping our business grow stronger in the process.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Whether you’re a student, school leaver or career changer, there’s more than one way to build a future in engineering.

Learn more about what we do

The post Engineering Apprenticeships that Lead to Real-World Impact appeared first on Accura.

The award acknowledges the depth of cultural change delivered across the organisation and our commitment to building a workplace where high performance and high trust go hand in hand. 

This is more than an award. It’s confirmation that our work to build a sustainable, people-first culture is delivering real results for our employees, our customers, and the future of Midlands manufacturing. 

What Are the Investors in People Awards? 

The Investors in People Awards celebrate organisations that put people at the heart of how they operate. Backed by the internationally recognised Investors in People (IIP) framework, the awards benchmark leadership, development, engagement, and organisational culture across sectors. 

The Best Newcomer category recognises businesses that have recently joined the IIP community and demonstrated exceptional progress in embedding people-first practices. 

For Accura Engineering, this recognition highlights how deeply we have integrated IIP into our leadership approach, our communication, our development pathways, and our decision-making. 

We didn’t pursue accreditation for the badge; we pursued it to build a culture worth sustaining. 

Why We Pursued Investors in People 

Three years ago, we had the foundations of a strong business: skilled people, long-term customer relationships, and deep manufacturing capability. We recognised that clearer roles, stronger progression paths, and more visible leadership were key to unlocking our full potential. 

We wanted a culture where: 

• People understood what was expected of them 

• Leaders supported growth rather than directing from authority 

• Every employee could see a future for themselves at Accura 

The IIP framework gave us a structure to make this real with a new way of leading, supporting, and developing people. 

“We wanted a framework that challenged how we thought, how we led, and how we grew. IIP gave us the language and accountability to change in the right way.”
— Rebecca Smith, HR Manager 

What Drove Our Success 

Leadership Built on Clarity and Accountability 

We introduced a Team Leader Development Programme focused on: 

• Coaching and communication 

• Day-to-day leadership behaviours 

• Confidence in decision-making 

This created leaders who not only manage output but support, guide, and enable progress. 

Career Pathways and Internal Progression 

We redesigned our appraisal framework to align personal goals with company strategy. 

As a result: 

• Internal progression rose to 26%, with employees stepping confidently into leadership roles 

• Appraisal completion reached 100%, ensuring every employee is aligned and supported 

• New training pathways were introduced for machining, maintenance, metrology, and quality 

Employee Voice Embedded in Decision-Making 

We launched: 

• A joint communications committee to influence key policies 

• Cross-functional strategy groups 

• Transparent forums for feedback and improvement 

This shift created a culture where people feel heard — and see their input drive change. 

“We’ve moved from a place where people waited to be told, to a place where they ask ‘what’s next?’ — and know how to get there.”
— Rebecca Smith, HR Manager 

A People-first Culture That Drives Performance 

Cultural change has translated into measurable operational impact. 

In 2023, Accura opened a new operational site through employee-led planning. Teams shaped layouts, workflows, and commissioning, demonstrating ownership and confidence built from IIP-led development. 

We also recorded: 

• Significant performance improvements 

• Growth in aerospace and defence customer programmes 

• National manufacturing award recognition 

People-first didn’t slow us down, it accelerated us. 

“This past year has shown what happens when you back your people and trust them to lead. The results are cultural, commercial, and operational.”
— Sophie Hallett-Jones, Managing Director 

What This Means for Our Customers 

For customers in aerospace, defence, energy and advanced manufacturing, people culture is more than internal language; it directly impacts: 

• Reliability 

• Consistency 

• Quality of output 

• Confidence in delivery 

 A stable, skilled, supported team delivers better and stays longer. That continuity matters in long-term, complex manufacturing programmes. 

A people-first organisation creates: 

• Lower turnover and retained expertise 

• Stronger collaboration and problem-solving 

• Greater care and precision in every part produced 

Simply put we are better equipped to deliver, because our people are empowered to do their best work. 

Looking Ahead: Sustaining Our Momentum 

Our Investors in People journey is ongoing. Over the next three years, we will: 

• Expand leadership development across all management levels 

• Embed quarterly development conversations as standard practice 

• Grow early careers pathways, including apprenticeships and graduate roles 

• Strengthen our approach to wellbeing, recognition, and inclusion 

We are also targeting £20M turnover by 2027, supported by automation, skills development, and a resilient culture built to adapt and evolve. 

“Sustainable success isn’t about staying still. It’s about staying intentional and we’re building a business that lasts.”
— Craig Wright, Chairman & CEO 

Join A People-first Engineering Business 

Whether you’re looking for a long-term manufacturing partner or a place to build your career: Accura Engineering is growing with purpose. 

The post Accura Engineering Wins Investors in People 2025 Best Newcomer appeared first on Accura.

In an industry where trust, traceability, and compliance are critical, this certification strengthens our position as a secure, responsible supplier to the aerospace, defence, energy and industrial sectors.

What Is Cyber Essentials Plus Certification?

Cyber Essentials Plus is a UK government-backed certification scheme developed by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). It provides assurance that a company has robust cybersecurity controls in place to protect against the most common threats.

Unlike the basic Cyber Essentials standard, Cyber Essentials Plus includes:

• An external audit of IT systems
• Vulnerability scanning and penetration testing
• Verification of security policies and access controls

Why Cyber Essentials Plus Matters in UK Manufacturing

As the manufacturing sector becomes increasingly digital and interconnected, cyber risks are rising. This is especially true for companies like Accura Engineering that operate within highly regulated supply chains, such as:

• Aerospace and defence
• Automotive and EV platforms
• Energy infrastructure

Achieving Cyber Essentials Plus certification demonstrates that we are not just compliant, we are proactive. We’re safeguarding sensitive project data, customer information, and IP across our entire digital infrastructure.

Secure Sourcing and Buyer Confidence

In regulated sectors, supplier risk is buyer risk. That’s why our customers need assurance that their partners take cyber security seriously.

Here’s how Cyber Essentials Plus certification adds value to our customers:

• Reduced cyber risk exposure across the supply chain
• Secure handling of defence and aerospace project data
• Demonstrated compliance with MoD and government frameworks
• Streamlined onboarding for sensitive contracts
• Confidence in long-term supplier resilience

“Customer trust is everything in our industry,” says Sophie Hallett-Jones, Managing Director at Accura Engineering. “Cyber Essentials Plus shows we’re not just delivering precision on the shop floor, we’re applying the same discipline to digital security.”

Supporting Defence and Aerospace Supply Chains

With over 50,000 parts produced per week and customers that include Tier 1 and OEM leaders, Accura Engineering understands the need for secure, compliant, and traceable sourcing.

Our Cyber Essentials Plus certification supports contracts in:

• Aerospace components and sub-assemblies
• Defence tooling and assemblies
• Mission-critical automotive systems

We pair this certification with key sector accreditations, including:

• AS9100 aerospace quality management
• NADCAP-accredited spark and wire EDM
• JOSCAR certification for defence sector pre-qualification

This makes Accura Engineering a fully certified, cyber-secure supplier, equipped to deliver high-reliability engineering services in sensitive, safety-critical environments.

Aligning with Our Digital Manufacturing Strategy

Cyber Essentials Plus is not a box-ticking exercise. It supports our long-term strategy to build a digital-first, future-ready manufacturing business.

We’re integrating:

• Real-time machine monitoring across our Centre of Excellence
• Secure communication and data handling between teams and partners
• Protected systems for CAD/CAM, project documentation and customer portals

“This certification is a step in our digital evolution,” adds Richard Hancox, Operations Director. “As we grow our footprint in aerospace and defence, secure systems are just as important as precise components.”

Why This Matters for Procurement Teams

If you’re sourcing precision components for aerospace, defence, or automotive programmes, cyber security isn’t just an IT issue, it’s a procurement priority.

Choosing a Cyber Essentials Plus certified supplier like Accura Engineering means:

• Faster supplier qualification
• Fewer compliance gaps during audits
• Reduced exposure to data breaches and cyber threats
• Enhanced stakeholder confidence

Internal Capabilities You Can Trust

Our investment in cyber security is backed by industry-leading capability, including:

• Multi-axis CNC machining
• Spark and wire EDM
• Press tooling and jigs
• Turnkey assembly and quality control

All services are now delivered under enhanced security protocols—ensuring data protection from design to delivery.

Work With a Certified, Cyber-Secure Engineering Partner

At Accura Engineering, we’re committed to excellence, from precision machining to data protection. Our Cyber Essentials Plus certification reflects the same high standards our customers have come to expect in every part we manufacture.

Contact us to find out how we support secure, compliant engineering partnerships.

Explore our full capabilities to see how we can help you meet your project goals.

The post Cyber Essentials Plus Certification: What It Means for Accura Engineering and Its Customers appeared first on Accura.

International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) is more than a date in the calendar. Rather, it’s a chance to celebrate the women in engineering who shape our future and redefine the industry for the better. By celebrating women in engineering across our workforce, we’re also creating space for new voices and new ideas to lead the way.

This year’s theme, #TogetherWeEngineer, reminds us that progress happens when everyone has a seat at the table. Importantly, it highlights the need for unity, inclusion, and equal opportunity across the sector.

Admittedly, representation is improving. But women still remain under-represented in UK engineering. As of 2021, only 16.5% of engineers in the UK were women and in many specialist fields, that percentage drops even lower.

Clearly, INWED 2025 isn’t just a celebration, it’s a call to action. It challenges stereotypes, showcases real career pathways, and urges companies to build inclusive workplaces where everyone can thrive.

At Accura, we stepped up to that challenge. As part of our transformation strategy, we set clear, ambitious goals and we delivered on them:

• We increased female representation in our workforce from 11% in 2021 to 20.1% in 2024.
• We closed our gender pay gap, cutting it from 29% to just 4%.
• We supported career development, helping 26% of our workforce move into expanded or promoted roles.

These aren’t just stats, they tell a story of growth, progress, and a culture that backs its people. Above all, they represent the impact of celebrating women in engineering not only one day a year, but every day in our workplace.

Meet The Women Driving Change at Accura

Undoubtedly, those numbers matter. However, it’s the people behind them who tell the real story.

Across our business, women are leading, problem-solving, mentoring, and building relationships that strengthen our future.

They’re shaping supply chains, driving quality improvements, and helping customers find the right solution in high-pressure environments.

Charlotte, Supply Chain Manager

When Charlotte joined, our supply chain function had potential but needed development. Over time, she didn’t just build a team. Instead, she transformed how we work with suppliers and helped us win back-to-back Made in Midlands Awards.

“Engineering thrives on problem-solving. And that requires diversity of thought. Women bring different experiences and perspectives, and that helps us develop better solutions. Diversity isn’t a nice-to-have. It’s essential.”

Charlotte has since embedded best practice across the business and strengthened supplier collaboration.

“When I started, supply chain wasn’t really seen as a value driver. Now, we’ve got mutual respect and collaboration with suppliers, and a team that’s fully embedded in our strategy.”

Tracey, Quality Manager

Tracey didn’t plan a career in engineering, but she grabbed the opportunity when it came. Initially starting with basic part checks, she soon fell in love with the power of quality to drive business-wide improvement. Later, she returned from a career break and worked her way up. Today, she leads the entire quality function at Accura.

“I started with inspections and checks. The more I learned about quality and continuous improvement, the more I loved it. Quality drives reputation, performance, and trust.”

“There’s still a perception that engineering is for men. Even now, job adverts use ‘he’ as the default—and that puts women off. We need to change that. Girls need to know there’s space for them in this industry.”

Olivia, Account Manager (Precision Machining)

Olivia sees engineering as a people-focused, problem-solving career. Previously, she worked in chemical distribution. However, she quickly found that the technical variety in engineering was a perfect fit.

“I love how technical this role is. There’s so much variety; every order, every customer is different. You learn something new every day.”

For Olivia, trust is everything.

“Strong relationships start with honesty. Especially in machining, where delays can happen, it’s about being upfront. When you keep people informed, they trust you more.”

And she’s thinking long-term:

“We need to bring more young people, and more young women, into engineering. These are vital skills that can’t disappear. We have to show what’s possible.”

Why Diversity in Engineering Matters

If the UK wants to stay ahead in advanced manufacturing, we can’t afford to limit the talent we bring into the industry. Expanding the engineering talent pool isn’t just a social imperative, it’s a strategic one.

In today’s world, the challenges we face demand a workforce that brings varied skills, fresh perspectives, and different lived experiences to the table.

That’s precisely why diversity matters.

We need to build inclusive engineering workplaces where everyone feels welcome, valued, and supported.

This includes rethinking how we recruit, develop, and retain talent from under-represented groups, including women. In particular, we must:

• Open clear career pathways for women
• Champion female role models across the sector
• Support apprenticeships for women, especially in technical roles

The evidence is clear: diverse teams perform better.

When people from different backgrounds work together, they solve problems more creatively, make better decisions, and deliver stronger outcomes. At Accura, we’ve seen the impact of this firsthand. Specifically, by creating space for new voices and different ways of thinking, we’ve:

• Expanded capacity in our Aerospace division by investing in automation and growing our internal talent base
• Improved supply chain transparency and collaboration through inclusive leadership and process innovation
• Strengthened customer relationships by putting empathy and proactivity at the heart of account management
• Reduced quality issues and rework by embedding continuous improvement practices driven by diverse thinking

Diversity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a business driver. Therefore, if we want to future-proof our industry, we need to ensure engineering is a career where everyone can belong, contribute, and succeed.

Inspiring The Next Generation

Engineering is no longer limited to oily overalls and factory floors. Today, it means working in high-tech, data-driven environments, collaborating in cross-functional teams, and solving some of the world’s most complex challenges.

When young people see modern engineering up close, they don’t just see a job, they see possibilities. Possibilities to travel the world, to lead projects, to innovate, to influence, and to grow.

“There’s a lot more to engineering than people realise. It can take you into global industries and the opportunities are endless.” – Tracey Ayton

In addition, we must continue to shift how we talk about engineering, both in schools and in society. Girls should see themselves represented in adverts, outreach programmes, and classrooms.

Moreover, they should hear real stories from women in the field and know that engineering isn’t just accessible, it’s exciting, dynamic, and rewarding.

“We need to challenge the stereotype. Engineering is for everyone who wants to solve problems, build things, and keep learning.” – Charlotte Fox

At Accura, we’re committed to that visibility. Whether it’s through our apprenticeship programmes, school partnerships, or leadership mentoring, we want young women to see a future they can step into with confidence. Because when they can see it, they can believe it and they can build it.

Celebrating Women in Engineering

International Women in Engineering Day 2025 gives us a moment to celebrate how far we’ve come.

At the same time, it reminds us there’s still more to do.

At Accura Engineering, we’ve already made real progress: we’ve closed our gender pay gap, increased female representation, and created clear pathways for people to grow and lead.

Now, we must build on that momentum.

If you’re a young woman considering a career in engineering, we want you to know there’s space for you here.

Likewise, if you’re a parent, teacher, or mentor, we encourage you to share these stories and help break down outdated perceptions.

And if you’re a business leader, we challenge you to think bigger about what an inclusive workplace can achieve, not just for your team, but for the future of the industry.

Let’s keep championing diversity. Let’s keep empowering women. And above all, let’s keep moving forward.

Because #TogetherWeEngineer a stronger, more inclusive future.

The post Celebrating Women in Engineering at Accura appeared first on Accura.

For Accura, this award is more than a headline, it’s a turning point. It marks a bold stride forward in the company’s mission to lead the UK’s aerospace and defence supply chain, while reinforcing the Midlands’ status as a powerhouse of precision engineering.

Transforming UK Aerospace Manufacturing

Over the past year, Accura Engineering has undergone a bold transformation. In 2024, the company invested £4 million in a new Centre of Excellence for Production Machining. This facility features advanced 5-axis DMG Mori machining platforms that have revolutionised production speed.

For example, drilling a hole in armour steel used to take 3.5 minutes. Now, the same process takes just 2.5 seconds. That leap in efficiency speaks volumes about Accura’s approach to innovation.

“Winning this award shows how far we’ve come and where we’re heading,” said Sophie Hallett-Jones, Managing Director at Accura Engineering.
“This is recognition for every person in our team who’s helped transform the business. We’re proud to represent Midlands manufacturing and proud to support the future of UK aerospace.”

Showcasing the Strength of Midlands Manufacturing

The Made in the UK Awards bring together regional winners from across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Together, they create a national platform that celebrates the very best of British manufacturing. These awards don’t just recognise commercial success, they also highlight the resilience, innovation, and leadership driving the industry forward.

For Accura Engineering, this national recognition shines a spotlight on the Midlands. Known for its engineering heritage and aerospace capability, the region plays a vital role in UK manufacturing. At the same time, the award strengthens our position as a trusted supplier to Tier 1s and OEMs, delivering complex, high-precision components with speed, scale, and reliability.

Our accreditations speak for themselves. We hold AS9100 and NADCAP certifications, and we are also a JOSCAR certified supplier. These industry benchmarks give our customers full confidence in our compliance, traceability, and performance. As a result, we’re able to support some of the world’s most regulated and demanding sectors, including aerospace, defence, and security.

By building on this strong foundation, we offer high-reliability solutions in precision CNC machining, press tooling, and turnkey manufacturing. Whether we’re supporting customers through new product introduction or scaling long-term production, we bring agility, technical expertise, and consistency to every project.

Looking Ahead: A Milestone, Not a Finish Line

Winning a Made in the UK Award marks a pivotal moment in our journey but we’re not slowing down. With a bold target to reach £20M in turnover by 2027, Accura is investing in what matters most: smart automation, advanced technology, and a highly skilled team.

We’re expanding production capacity. We’re forming long-term partnerships. And we’re proving that a Midlands manufacturer can set the pace for innovation in aerospace and defence.

“We’re growing with purpose,” says Sophie Hallett-Jones, Managing Director. “This award is a milestone, not a finish line.”

Ready to work with an award-winning aerospace and defence supplier focused on continuous improvement?

Get in touch to discuss your next project. Or explore our capabilities to see how Accura Engineering can support your success.

The post Accura Engineering Wins Big at Made in the UK Awards 2025 appeared first on Accura.

The certification demonstrates Accura’s ongoing commitment to compliance, quality and continuous improvement; key values that underpin every component and assembly delivered by the Willenhall-based manufacturer.

What is JOSCAR and Why Does It Matter?

JOSCAR (Joint Supply Chain Accreditation Register) is an industry-recognised accreditation system used by leading aerospace, defence and security companies, including BAE Systems, Leonardo, Rolls-Royce, QinetiQ, and the Ministry of Defence.

Designed to streamline supplier onboarding and compliance, JOSCAR allows buyers to quickly verify that suppliers meet stringent requirements in areas such as operational capability, quality assurance, supply chain security, health and safety, IT security, environmental performance and corporate social responsibility.

Being JOSCAR certified confirms that Accura Engineering has been fully vetted and has met the high standards required by prime contractors and other major players in these critical sectors.

Reinforcing Trust in a Regulated Supply Chain

Accura Engineering’s JOSCAR approval is the latest milestone in its strategic journey to deliver excellence in aerospace and defence precision engineering. Already certified to AS9100 and holding NADCAP accreditation for non-conventional machining, the company is known for its ability to manufacture complex, high-tolerance components and sub-assemblies for some of the world’s most demanding programmes.

From metallic aerospace components to defence sub-systems and tooling, Accura operates with the precision, traceability and documentation that OEMs and Tier 1s depend on. The JOSCAR certification not only reinforces that capability—it simplifies procurement for customers who require rapid validation during the bidding and qualification process.

“Becoming a JOSCAR certified supplier is a significant endorsement of the systems and standards we’ve worked hard to build,” says Sophie Hallett-Jones, Managing Director of Accura Engineering. “It gives our current and prospective customers even greater confidence in our ability to deliver against the stringent requirements of the aerospace and defence industries.”

Quality, Compliance and Capability Built In

As a trusted manufacturing partner, Accura combines the latest technology with deep industry knowledge to deliver high-reliability solutions across critical programmes. Its 85,000 sq. ft. facility in the West Midlands houses more than 10 DMG Mori machining centres, multi-axis CNC mills and lathes, NADCAP-accredited spark and wire EDM, and full in-house inspection and documentation systems.

This JOSCAR certification builds on a legacy of investment, which includes:

• A £4M expansion into a new Centre of Excellence for Production Machining
• Regular third-party audits and internal compliance reviews
• Scalable manufacturing for both NPI and long-term production contracts
• Trusted supplier status with multiple Tier 1 aerospace and defence organisations

From CNC machining to aerospace component manufacture, every process is underpinned by the rigorous quality assurance that the JOSCAR framework recognises.

Supporting Aerospace and Defence Procurement Teams

For procurement professionals in regulated sectors, supplier assurance is often one of the biggest bottlenecks in project mobilisation. JOSCAR approval accelerates this process, providing buyers with instant access to verified supplier information and reducing the administrative burden of collecting and validating compliance documents.

This means that by working with Accura Engineering, procurement teams can:

• Minimise supplier risk
• Streamline sourcing and qualification workflows
• Align with internal and customer audit requirements
• Gain faster access to a proven, certified partner

Whether it’s a one-off prototype, a critical NPI run or a full production programme, Accura offers the flexibility, capability and compliance that defence and aerospace buyers require.

Designed for Long-Term Partnership

The achievement of JOSCAR certification is part of a broader strategy that reflects Accura’s commitment to sustainable growth, customer service and technical excellence.

“Our customers aren’t just looking for a one-time supplier,” adds Sophie. “They want a partner who understands their challenges, shares their commitment to quality, and has the systems and culture to scale with them. JOSCAR recognition reinforces that we are exactly that kind of partner.”

Discover What Makes Accura a JOSCAR Certified Supplier

With a reputation for on-time delivery, deep industry knowledge, and robust internal processes, Accura is ready to support the next generation of aerospace and defence platforms.

If you’re looking for a JOSCAR certified supplier with proven expertise in CNC machining, complex assemblies, and aerospace and defence compliance, we’d love to hear from you.

Get in touch or explore our services.

The post Accura Engineering Is Now a JOSCAR Certified Supplier appeared first on Accura.

The awards ceremony will be held on Friday 11th July 2025 at the East Side Rooms in Birmingham. The event brings together the best of UK manufacturing, celebrating achievements in apprenticeships, training, and technical excellence.

What Are the In-Comm Awards?

The In-Comm Awards are a respected annual event hosted by In-Comm Training, one of the UK’s leading technical training providers. These awards highlight the outstanding learners, training teams, and employers who are shaping the future of engineering and vocational education.

Becoming an In-Comm Awards 2025 finalist in five categories reflects the strength of our training culture, our investment in people, and the impact our apprentices are making across the business.

Accura Engineering: In-Comm Awards 2025 Finalist in Five Categories

We’re honoured to be shortlisted in the following award categories:

1. Learner of the Year (Engineering Foundation) – Joseph Griffin
2. Learner of the Year (Engineering Advanced) – Ethan Austin
3. Learner of the Year (Engineering Advanced) – Arvin Rana
4. Learner of the Year (Engineering Advanced) – James Roper
5. Learner of the Year (Professional Service) – Kieron Gaynor
6. Apprentice Champion of the Year – Rebecca Smith
7. SME Employer of the Year

Each of these nominations demonstrates the strength of our engineering apprenticeship programme. It also reflects the drive and professionalism of our learners and mentors alike.

“To be named an In-Comm Awards 2025 finalist in five categories is a phenomenal achievement,” says Sophie Hallett-Jones, Managing Director at Accura Engineering.

“It reflects the passion of our apprentices, the dedication of our trainers, and the learning culture we’ve built. We’re proud of every nominee.”

Developing the Next Generation of UK Engineers

At Accura, apprenticeships mean more than qualifications. They represent capability, responsibility, and career progression. Our apprentices contribute to live customer projects, gaining experience that extends far beyond the classroom.

They actively support:

• Aerospace component manufacturing
• NADCAP-accredited spark and wire EDM
• Advanced multi-axis CNC machining
• Quality assurance and precision inspection
• Tooling design and process optimisation

This hands-on involvement builds confidence, improves capability, and prepares our apprentices to thrive in high-reliability environments.

A Culture That Celebrates Achievement

Becoming an In-Comm Awards 2025 finalist reflects the culture of mentorship and growth that defines our business. Each shortlisted apprentice represents the values of commitment, quality, and curiosity we champion every day.

We are especially proud that many of our nominees have played key roles in time-critical aerospace programmes, supporting our customers through excellence on the shop floor.

“These nominations show that when you invest in people, you see results,” says Sophie. “Whether they’re learning to operate our newest equipment or collaborating with customers, our apprentices are building something lasting, not just for Accura, but for the entire industry.”

Growth, Investment and Recognition

Our finalist status comes at a time of sustained investment in talent and technology. We’ve recently completed a £4M expansion to create our Centre of Excellence for Production Machining, added new DMG MORI 5-axis machining platforms, and grown our footprint across aerospace and defence.

This momentum is driven by our people. From first-year apprentices to senior engineers, the team at Accura is aligned in our commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

Join Us at the Awards Ceremony

The In-Comm Awards 2025 will take place on 11th July at the East Side Rooms in Birmingham. We look forward to celebrating alongside other finalists and recognising the learners, mentors and companies advancing UK engineering and manufacturing.

Regardless of the outcome, being shortlisted in seven categories is a huge achievement and a moment of pride for everyone at Accura Engineering.

The post Accura Engineering Named In-Comm Awards 2025 Finalist appeared first on Accura.

The award was presented on 9 April at the Burlington Hotel, Birmingham, where the region’s most respected manufacturers were celebrated for their innovation, resilience, and long-term impact. Accura was recognised for strong sales growth, strategic diversification, and a bold £4M investment in our new Centre of Excellence for precision machining.

BUILT FOR CRITICAL AEROSPACE PROGRAMMES

Every week, we produce over 50,000 aerospace components for Tier 1 suppliers and global OEMs. With AS9100 and NADCAP compliance, full traceability, and an agile production model, we deliver the consistency and performance required in the most demanding aerospace environments.

We understand the challenges procurement and engineering teams face—tight deadlines, complex documentation, cost pressures, and the need for long-term supplier reliability. That’s why we focus on:

• Multi-axis CNC machining of complex, high-tolerance parts
• NADCAP-accredited spark and wire EDM
• Scalable NPI and production support
• Transparent communication and no surprises
• A total cost-of-ownership approach—not just a unit price

“This award is a real validation of the direction we’ve taken,” says Sophie Hallett-Jones, Managing Director at Accura Engineering. “We’re committed to being a strategic partner for the most demanding aerospace programmes; combining technical excellence, reliable delivery, and future-ready investment.”

SUPPORTING INNOVATION THAT DOESN’T COMPROMISE RELIABILITY

From aerospace assemblies to defence sub-systems, we help teams accelerate new product introduction and deliver consistent quality at scale. Our investment in people, processes, and technology ensures we’re ready for the next generation of platforms and performance standards.

This award reflects the trust our customers place in us, and our continued drive to lead the future of UK aerospace manufacturing.

LET’S TALK ABOUT YOUR NEXT AEROSPACE PROGRAMME

Whether you need compliant NPI support or a long-term precision manufacturing partner, we’d love to show you what Accura can do.

Contact us or learn more about our precision machining capabilities.

The post Accura Named Award-Winning Aerospace Supplier appeared first on Accura.

Accura Engineering’s DMG Mori machining investment is doing just that.

With a multi-million-pound investment into over ten DMG MORI machining centres, housed in a new state-of-the-art facility in Willenhall, Accura is building a future-ready machining strategy designed around speed, scalability, and automation. But what does this investment mean in real terms for operations, for customers, and for the future of British aerospace manufacturing?

We sat down with Richard Hancox, Operations Director at Accura, to explore the strategic thinking behind this investment and what it signals for the wider industry.

Meet the Expert: Richard Hancox

Richard brings over two decades of experience in engineering operations and precision manufacturing. As Operations Director, he leads Accura’s production transformation spearheading the rollout of advanced machining platforms and integrating smart technologies into every stage of the manufacturing process.

Under his guidance, Accura has significantly scaled its machining capability, grown customer confidence, and invested in the infrastructure needed to support complex aerospace and defence programmes.

Why DMG MORI? The Case for High-Precision Platforms

Q: Why does Accura Engineering continue to invest in DMG MORI machines?

Richard Hancox: “Keeping up to date with new technology is critical for continual improvements and innovation. DMG MORI provides industry-leading precision, repeatability, and automation capabilities, which are essential for producing complex, high-tolerance components. These machines allow us to scale up production while maintaining the uncompromising quality standards our customers expect.”

The key word here is repeatability, a must-have for any aerospace supplier looking to deliver hundreds or thousands of identical components to exacting specifications.

Accura’s DMG Mori machining investment gives them the confidence to meet the most demanding tolerances across a wide range of part geometries, materials and batch sizes.

From Investment to Impact: Customer Benefits in Focus

Q: What are the key benefits for Accura customers?

Richard Hancox: “Ultimately, this investment translates to real advantages for our customers:

• Faster lead times: Our automated systems minimise downtime and improve throughput.
• Reduced production costs: By optimising spindle running times, we maximise efficiency.
• Superior quality and repeatability: Our ability to hold tight tolerances consistently is a game-changer, particularly for industries like aerospace and defence.”

For customers, the benefit is clear: faster, more cost-effective delivery without compromising on quality.

Aerospace programmes can move forward with greater confidence, knowing that their supplier has the infrastructure and process control to deliver first-time-right components at scale.

A Facility Designed for the Future

Accura’s new Centre of Excellence isn’t just about adding capacity. It’s about creating a manufacturing environment optimised for the demands of modern aerospace production.

Key features include:

• Large-format 5-axis machining up to 3600mm
• Multi-pallet mill-turn centres for lights-out operation
• NADCAP-accredited spark and wire EDM
• AS9100-certified processes with full traceability
• Dedicated NPI areas for fast-turnaround prototypes

This infrastructure gives Accura the flexibility to handle everything from one-off development parts to long-term production contracts—without bottlenecks or rework delays.

The Role of Automation in Scalable Growth

Q: How does automation improve production capabilities?

Richard Hancox: “This visit to the DMG MORI Open House was about more than just seeing the latest technology—it was about identifying future investment opportunities to strengthen our capabilities even further. With our new machining facility now operational, featuring DMG MORI mill-turn centres and large 5-axis machining up to 3600mm, we’re already seeing the benefits. But we’re not stopping here.”

Automation is central to Accura’s ability to compete on both cost and lead time. By running unmanned shifts and reducing manual intervention, they’re not only extending machine uptime—they’re also mitigating the impact of skills shortages and operator fatigue.

The result? Greater consistency, faster throughput, and more stable pricing for customers managing long-term aerospace programmes.

What’s Next: A Vision for 24/7, Smart Machining

Q: What’s next for Accura’s machining investment strategy?

Richard Hancox: “Our next focus is fully automated, 24/7 machining with real-time performance monitoring. By integrating smart technology, we can drive even greater efficiency, consistency, and cost-effectiveness for our customers.”

This is where the roadmap becomes especially exciting.

Real-time monitoring, data-driven diagnostics, and predictive maintenance are poised to transform how manufacturers manage throughput and quality assurance. Accura’s continued DMG Mori machining investment is laying the groundwork for smart machining environments, where machines communicate, adapt and optimise their performance in real time.

It’s a bold step but a necessary one. As aerospace platforms become more complex and demand more responsive supply chains, only those suppliers who can scale intelligently will remain competitive.

Key Takeaways for Aerospace Buyers and Engineers

If you’re responsible for sourcing aerospace machining partners or delivering complex mechanical systems under tight timelines there are several insights you can take from this conversation:

1. Look Beyond Machine Count—Ask About Capability

Accura isn’t just adding machines; it’s building process stability, automation, and lights-out capability. When evaluating suppliers, ask not just what equipment they have, but how they’re using it.

2. Focus on Repeatability, Not Just Tolerance

Precision is only valuable if it’s repeatable. Accura’s investment in DMG MORI gives them proven control over tight tolerances at scale, reducing rework and improving delivery confidence.

3. Prioritise NPI Speed and Scalability

With flexible programming across platforms, Accura can support New Product Introduction without clogging up production lines.

4. Choose Partners Who Are Future-Proofing

Smart machining and real-time performance monitoring aren’t buzzwords—they’re essential for long-term competitiveness. Accura is actively investing in technology that reduces cost of ownership while improving reliability.

Final Word: Built for Critical Programmes

At Accura Engineering, the goal isn’t to follow the industry, it’s to lead it.

From investing in industry-leading platforms to building a digitally enabled Centre of Excellence, the company is setting a new benchmark for what an award-winning aerospace supplier can deliver: faster lead times, tighter tolerances, and complete customer confidence.

“We believe that the right technology, combined with expertise and innovation, is what sets us apart,” says Richard. “It allows us to tackle complex challenges and deliver exceptional results every time.”

Want to See the Technology in Action?

Explore our precision machining capabilities or get in touch to learn how we can support your next aerospace programme.

The post DMG MORI Machining Investment: A Q&A With Accura Engineering’s Operations Director appeared first on Accura.

We’ve been recognised in:

• Manufacturer of the Year (under £25m turnover)
• Automotive, Aerospace & Rail Award

Organised by Insider Media, these awards highlight the innovation, leadership and investment that continue to drive Midlands-based manufacturers forward. To be named among the finalists is a fantastic achievement and a reflection of our ongoing transformation.

Driving Innovation in Engineering

“This shortlisting is a reflection of the team’s relentless focus on improvement, quality and delivering real value to our customers,” said Sophie Hallett-Jones, Managing Director at Accura Engineering, “We’ve made bold investments over the past year to stay at the forefront of precision engineering, and we’re proud to see that recognised by our peers,”

The winners will be revealed at a black-tie ceremony on Wednesday 9 April 2025 at The Burlington Hotel in Birmingham, where manufacturers from across the region will gather to celebrate industry success.

A Year of Growth, Investment and Recognition

This recognition follows a landmark year for Accura Engineering. Highlights include:

• A £4 million investment into our new Centre of Excellence for machining in Willenhall
• 29% growth in FY24 and a record-breaking order book heading into FY25
• National recognition as SME Apprentice Employer of the Year at the 2024 In-Comm Awards
• Expansion of key contracts in aerospace, defence and automotive manufacturing
• A growing apprenticeship programme that continues to tackle the sector’s skills gap

Engineering Innovation to Depend On

Based in the West Midlands, Accura Engineering is a trusted partner to some of the world’s most advanced industries. With AS9100 and NADCAP accreditations, over 85,000 sq. ft. of production space, and a strong commitment to skills development, we’re proud to help shape the future of UK manufacturing.

Stay tuned—we’ll be sharing more updates as the awards approach.

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