The Institute for Manufacturing (IfM) is set to bring together some of the UK's leading voices in manufacturing as it co-hosts the fourth Women in Manufacturing UK 2026 conference.

The event will unite industry leaders, policymakers, researchers, educators and practitioners who share a commitment to building a more inclusive and diverse future for UK manufacturing.

Organised by the Women in Manufacturing UK (WiM UK) initiative, co-led by the IfM, Innovate UK Business Connect and the High Value Manufacturing Catapult, the conference will provide a national platform for sharing insights, showcasing best practice, and exploring the opportunities and challenges facing the manufacturing sector.

Conference theme - Shifting the balance: flexing the future

This year’s theme, Shifting the balance: flexing the future, will explore how flexible working can help manufacturers attract, retain and develop the diverse talent needed for future growth.

The day opens with keynote addresses from senior government and industry leaders, then moves into panel discussions and fireside chats on how organisations can put flexible working into practice, showcasing insights from both early-career and senior leaders. Delegates can also join focused sessions on best practice and flexible working, hear from mission-aligned organisations and take part in a LEGO® Serious Play® workshop.

An annual highlight of the conference is the launch of the Women in UK Manufacturing Report, providing attendees with the first insights into the latest evidence, trends and experiences shaping the sector. Led by the WiM Policy and Research Working Group, the 2026 edition will focus on flexible working in manufacturing, sharing findings from an employee survey alongside practical guidance and case studies from organisations already implementing innovative approaches.

Kate Willsher, Chief Operating Officer at IfM Engage and conference co-chair, says "The Women in Manufacturing conference provides an important forum for bringing together people from across the sector who are committed to creating positive change. This year, we will be exploring how greater flexibility can help manufacturers attract, retain and develop the talent they need for the future. By sharing experiences, evidence and practical approaches, we can help build a more inclusive, innovative and resilient manufacturing community."

Open to all - register now

The conference is open to anyone committed to a more inclusive manufacturing future - whether you're an industry leader, policymaker, academic, student, or early-career professional.

Register to secure your place. 

Sponsorship opportunities available

We are pleased to offer a range of sponsorship packages for organisations looking to support this event. Sponsorship provides high-visibility opportunities to demonstrate your commitment to equity and inclusion in UK manufacturing, while engaging directly with a diverse national network.

To learn more about sponsorship options, please contact 

Kate Willsher at kew54@cam.ac.uk