Welsh constructional steelwork industry celebrates proud heritage and promising future at Senedd with First Minister’s backing

05/02/2025

Category: General

The vital role of Wales’ steel sector, both past and future, was recently celebrated at the Senedd, as industry leaders, apprentices, and policymakers gathered for Welsh Steel: Proud History, Bright Future.

The event, hosted by the British Constructional Steelwork Association (BCSA), reinforced the industry’s deep-rooted importance to Welsh communities and the economy, while also highlighting the opportunities ahead for a greener, more sustainable future. The event also discussed the often-forgotten constructional steelwork sector, which is worth approximately £1.6 billion per year and employs around 60,000 people in the UK.

Among those in attendance were young apprentices, who spoke about the need to attract a more diverse and inclusive workforce to ensure the industry’s long-term success. They also underlined the sector’s commitment to innovation, with new technologies driving the transition to low-carbon steel production.

A key focus of the event was the industry’s shift towards more sustainable practices, including the planned introduction of an Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) at Port Talbot in 2027, a major step towards reducing carbon emissions while securing the future of Welsh steelmaking, but also an opportunity to provide a sustainable supply chain for constructional steelworkers and fabricators across the UK.

Speakers included First Minister, Eluned Morgan, who reaffirmed the Welsh Government’s commitment to supporting the sector, and Rebecca Evans MS, Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Constitution and Economy. Jonathan Clemens, CEO of the British Constructional Steelwork Association, also addressed attendees, alongside a Q&A session with apprentices from the constructional steelwork firm William Hare. Rhianon Passmore MS, who sponsored the event and delivered the closing remarks, also spoke about the importance of the steel sector in Wales.

Alex Shufflebottom, Managing Director Shufflebottom Limited, spoke about the history of the business, which is based in Llanelli and was established as a family business in 1977. The steel fabrication company has diversified over the years and now part of a group – Embrace Steel. Alex highlighted the current challenges Shufflebottom Ltd faces with recruitment, having to employ fabricator/welders and structural engineers from abroad. However, she went on to say the future looks bright and the company is making investments in line with their plans for growth.

Jonathan Clemens, CEO of the British Constructional Steelwork Association, said: “Steel has been at the heart of Wales’ industrial and economic success for generations, and today we stand at a pivotal moment. Construction steel accounts for 50% of the UK demand and the industry is evolving to not only use steel innovation but, in the way, constructional steel is designed, fabricated and erected. Therefore, to truly unlock the sector’s potential, we need to attract the next generation of skilled workers. Events like this help showcase the opportunities ahead as well building on the exemplars of today to ensure that steel in construction remains a source of pride and prosperity for Wales.”

Speaking at the event Eluned Morgan, First Minister, said: “For over a century we have had Steel as the backbone of Welsh industries. It has shaped the homes we live in, the schools for our children, and hospitals that care for us.

“Innovation is absolutely key for how we design and produce steel with real opportunities for growth and jobs, making this a priority for the Welsh government.”

Rhianon Passmore MS, Member of the Senedd for Islwyn said: “The steel industry’s future depends on its people. The workforce needs to be talented, diverse and inclusive. This isn’t a nice-to-have; it’s an essential. The industry can only become stronger and more resilient if we welcome people from all backgrounds, with a wide range of talents, ensuring inclusivity as the sector evolves.

“Welsh steel is more than just an industry—it’s a cornerstone of our communities, a driver of economic progress, and a leader in innovation and sustainability. Let’s keep celebrating and supporting this proud heritage as we look toward an even brighter future.”

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