Advanced Engineering & Manufacturing including Aerospace & Construction

Dorset is a thriving hub for Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing (AEM) including Aerospace and Construction, offering abundant opportunities for growth.

The region boasts a skilled workforce and a strong supply chain that supports sectors like aerospace, defence, marine and electronics. With a robust network of national trade associations and international businesses, Dorset provides the ideal environment for companies looking to scale and innovate in advanced manufacturing.

ADS Group

Represents the UK's aerospace, defence, security, and space sectors, advancing industry leadership and facilitating growth.

BattleLab

Located at Dorset Innovation Park the facility is home to end-users from different trades and specialisations across Defence.

 

British Marine

The trade association for the UK leisure, superyacht and small commercial marine industry. 

Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB)

The world's largest and most influential professional body for construction management and leadership.

Construction Industry Council (CIC)

The representative forum for the professional bodies, research organisations and specialist business associations in the construction industry.

Construction Industry Training Board (CITB)

The industry training board  for the construction sector in England, Scotland, and Wales. CITB help the construction industry attract talent and to support skills development, to build a better Britain.

Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl)

Provides world-class expertise and delivers cutting-edge science and technology for the benefit of the UK and allies.

 

Dorset Engineering & Manufacturing Cluster (DEMC)

Elevates the visibility of the engineering and manufacturing sector within Dorset, with a focus on boosting productivity, growth and workforce development initiatives.

Federation of Master Builders (FMB)

A membership organisation to show your mark of quality to customers. Their services help members grow their business, network and skills.

Gauge and Toolmakers Association

A trade association representing companies in precision engineering, toolmaking, and related sectors, providing support and promoting industry standards.

Innovate UK Catapult Network

Provides a unique combination of cutting-edge R&D facilities and world-class technical expertise to support UK business innovation.

Make UK

Champions and celebrates British manufacturing and manufacturers; a platform for the evolution of UK manufacturing.

Manufacturing Technologies Association

The UK's trade association for manufacturing technology companies, promoting the sector's interests and providing a platform for networking and collaboration. 

Manufacturing Technology Centre

Pioneers manufacturing innovation with state-of-the-art facilities and collaborative expertise. Part of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult, they drive transformative industry solutions through curiosity and collaboration.

Maritime UK SW

A public, private research partnership focusing on the Great South West dedicated to increasing the marine and maritime economy.

National Composites Centre

An independent, open-access technology centre delivering world-class research and development of composites.

National Federation of Builders (NFB)

Whether you’re a start-up, scaleup, or a major contractor turning over 8 figures annually, the NFB have a range of benefits for all businesses designed to help you save money, win more contracts, and stay up to date with the latest policies and crucial industry developments.

South West Aerospace Cluster

The UK’s largest aerospace cluster is a collaboration across the South West.

South West Manufacturing Advisory Service (SWMAS)

Delivering hands on support, impartial advice and expert guidance to manufacturers across the South West. 

South West Regional Defence & Security Cluster (SWRDSC) 

A collaboration led by industry and academia with the support of government and ministerial departments including MOD and DASA.

West of England Aerospace Forum (WEAF)

A membership trade organisation for all aspects of aerospace, defence and advanced manufacturing.