Royal visit to MTL
HRH The Princess Royal visited MTL Advanced, part of WEC Group, to meet apprentices, engineers and senior leadership, recognising the company’s continued investment in skills development, innovation and regional growth.
Over recent years, MTL Advanced has transformed from a regional engineering SME employing 130 people into a leading contract manufacturing and fabrication business with a workforce of 480 employees, supporting major programmes across the UK.
With a strong and growing order book and increased operational capacity, MTL Advanced has continued to invest in both infrastructure and people to support critical UK programmes. The Princess Royal’s longstanding association with the Armed Forces and the Defence community made the visit particularly significant, reflecting the close alignment between MTL’s capabilities and the sectors it supports.
A central focus of the visit was MTL’s Apprentice Training Academy, delivered in partnership with the WEC Engineering Academy. The Academy has played a vital role in developing the next generation of engineers, equipping apprentices with high-level skills in welding, fabrication, machining and business to meet the evolving needs of the UK’s high-specification industries.
During her facility tour, Her Royal Highness met members of staff and engaged with apprentices currently undertaking their training while working within a live production environment. The Academy has expanded in line with MTL’s rapid growth and has supported an ongoing recruitment drive, with the business continuing to create high-quality engineering roles each September to meet increasing demand.
In honour of the occasion, the company’s apprentices designed and fabricated a bespoke stainless steel horse sculpture named “Doublet.” The piece was inspired by The Princess Royal’s lifelong association with equestrian sport.
Crafted entirely in-house using advanced cutting, forming and welding techniques, Doublet was formally presented to HRH The Princess Royal alongside a commemorative plaque to mark her visit.
Karl Stewart, General Manager of MTL Advanced, said: “We were extremely proud to welcome Her Royal Highness to MTL Advanced today. Her visit recognised not only the progress we have made as a business, but also the importance of investing in apprenticeships and skills to secure the future of UK manufacturing.”
HRH The Princess Royal touring MTL Advanced facilities in Rotherham with Steve Hartley, Managing Director of WEC Group (left) and Karl Stewart, General Manager of MTL Advanced (right)