13.08.25

Skilled Hands, Bright Futures: Why Welders and CNC Machinists Are in Demand

In the world of engineering and manufacturing, some skills never go out of style, they only become more valuable. Right now, roles such as welders and CNC machinists are sought-after in the UK, and especially here in Yorkshire.

At Cubed Talent, we see this demand every day. Our clients, from precision engineering firms to large-scale manufacturers, are looking for people with the hands-on skills to make, build, and keep production moving. But why are these roles so in demand? Let’s take a closer look.


The Backbone of Modern Manufacturing

  • Welders are vital across sectors, from construction and automotive to aerospace and energy. They create the strong joints and structures that literally hold industries together.

  • CNC machinists bring precision to manufacturing, using advanced computer-controlled machines to produce high-quality, accurate components.

Without these skills, production simply stops. As industries evolve, the demand for this kind of technical expertise continues to grow.


Why Demand Is Rising

1. Skills Shortages

There aren’t enough skilled welders and machinists to meet the needs of industry. Many experienced workers are retiring, and fewer young people are entering the trades — creating a significant gap.

2. Industry Growth

Yorkshire, and the UK more widely, is seeing growth in sectors that rely heavily on these roles: aerospace, rail, defence, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing. Every new project means more demand for skilled tradespeople.

3. Precision and Quality Requirements

As technology advances, businesses need components made to tighter tolerances and higher standards. That makes the expertise of CNC machinists and coded welders more important than ever.

4. Global Supply Chain Challenges

Businesses are bringing more manufacturing back to the UK to secure supply chains. That means more production happening locally — and more need for people who can make it happen.


Opportunities for Candidates

For skilled workers, the outlook is bright:

  • Job security: Demand is outstripping supply.

  • Career progression: From shop-floor to supervisory and programming roles.

  • Strong pay potential: Employers are willing to invest in retaining the right talent.

  • Pride in work: Welders and machinists see the direct results of their craft every day.

 

Challenges for Employers

For businesses, the shortage of skilled trades means:

  • Competition to secure the best people.

  • Pressure on wages and retention.

  • A need to move quickly when the right candidate becomes available.

This is where Cubed Talent makes the difference. Our deep understanding of the engineering and manufacturing sectors, combined with our many years of experience and Yorkshire roots, means we know where to find skilled tradespeople — and how to match them with the right businesses.


Cubed Talent: Connecting Skills to Industry

We’re proud to specialise in engineering, technical, and manufacturing recruitment. Whether you’re looking for your next role as a welder or machinist, or you’re an employer struggling to find the right people, we’re here to help.

 

👉 Are you a skilled welder or CNC machinist looking for your next opportunity? Or are you an employer who needs to secure the talent to keep production moving? Get in touch with us today.

Meet Our Author

Kelly Busfield
Kelly Busfield
Senior Recruitment Partner