Attracting talent to the aluminium industry

Building the future together

We at BOAL Extrusion UK hosted the ALFED Extrusion Group meeting - bringing together a strong mix of industry peers and, importantly, a new generation of talent.

By inviting the Aluminium Allies and encouraging attendees to bring younger colleagues, we created a broader and more diverse group. Nearly half of the attendees were female, with perspectives from across the aluminium value chain. It made for a more open, energising and forward-looking discussion.

So, how do we attract talent?

One thing became clear: the opportunity is there, but we need to make it more visible.

For many young people, our industry is still largely unknown. Not because it lacks relevance or potential, but because we haven’t always shown what’s possible. At the same time, we were reminded of something equally important.

People stay because of people

The younger professionals in the room shared a common experience: they stayed and developed because someone invested in them. 

• Mentors who supported them. 

• Managers who trusted them. 

• Teams that helped them grow.

It’s a simple insight, but one that carries real weight.

A shared opportunity

With around one million young adults in the UK currently not in employment, education or training, the challenge becomes more tangible and harder to ignore. For an industry that continues to face difficulties in attracting new talent, this isn’t just a statistic; it highlights a gap we are well positioned to help close.

It also points us towards a more proactive approach. By connecting earlier with schools and colleges, opening our doors, and working more closely together as a sector, we can make our industry more visible and accessible. In doing so, we not only strengthen our own talent pipeline, but also help more young people discover that a career in aluminium can be both rewarding and full of opportunity.

What’s next?

There was no shortage of ideas in the room and a genuine willingness to move forward.

The next step is to turn those conversations into action. Step by step, company by company. GeorgeBain will continue to support BOAL Extrusion UK and Aluminium Federation(ALFED) identifying and connecting the broader eco-system for attracting young adults into the aluminium industry.

Thanks to everyone who contributed to a thoughtful and constructive discussion. The momentum is there. Now it’s about building on it.