Black Country metal star recognised at the Confederation of British Metalforming Awards

Steel & Alloy Gonvarri Industries became the first ever winner of the new Employee Engagement title at the Confederation of British Metalforming Awards at the Council House in Birmingham.

The Oldbury-based company impressed judges with its understanding of employment issues and barriers, implementing a collective approach for improvement and delivering a ‘growth’ culture that works for both the company and the workforce.

More than 200 industry leaders also saw G-TEM win ‘Company of the Year’, Brandauer (Energy Efficiency) and Sertec Group taking home the best HSE initiative. 

Geraldine Bolton, CEO of the Confederation of British Metalforming (CBM), said: “Our sector never ceases to amaze me, the resilience to fight back and achieve world class manufacturing in the face of so many challenges and a fragmented government approach to industry is something else.

“This year has taken it to another level. Our winners, which come from all parts of the metals supply chain, have demonstrated innovation, a strong approach to skills, investment in new technology and a clear route map for achieving sustainable production.”

“Huge congratulations to Steel & Alloy Gonvarri Industries, who have defied sector pressures to produce a truly award-winning performance.”

The next generation of metal experts are always highlighted at the CBM Awards, with James Pugh taking home the Apprentice of the Year Award for 2025.

Working as a Process Improvement Engineer at Sertec Group, he has made a wide variety of incredible contributions to the business, as well as redefining best practices within his sector.

This has included adopting smart manufacturing technologies, introducing new processes and implementing technical improvements that have reduced customer complaints by more than half. 

Going forward, James has plans in place to earn his Lean Six Sigma Black Belt with a view to moving into a leadership role.

President of the CBM Steve Morley, who delivered a keynote speech before the awards, said: “Our apprentices are the future of our sector, but we need to keep fighting to ensure we have an industry for them to excel in.

“There are so many bright minds and passionate manufacturing individuals coming through the ranks like James – now is the time to fight for their future and ensure the metals sector continues to play a critical role in daily life and UK GDP. “

The Confederation of British Metalforming represents the interests of more than 200 UK manufacturers of fasteners, forgings, pressings, cold rolled and sheet-metal products.

Its Awards were kindly sponsored by Crowe UK, Greenfields Energy Group, In-Comm Training, JLR and Enginuity.