London's manufacturing industry was buzzing on May 1, 2025. Over 200 manufacturing leaders and students gathered at RBC Place for the Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) Southwestern Ontario branch’s 30th annual scholarship awards dinner.
The event – sponsored in part by the London Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) - brought together seasoned industry executives, academics and bright young talent in a dinner and networking gala. Attendees browsed exhibits showcasing local advanced manufacturing technologies (from aerospace composites to clean tech) before the night's program.
“Sponsors like the LEDC are essential to making this event possible,” says Candace Campbell, chair of CME Southwestern Ontario. “Their generous support not only funds scholarships for deserving students but also creates a platform for celebrating achievement, fostering team spirit, and building valuable connections between students, educators, and industry leaders. By investing in this event, sponsors are investing in the future of our regional manufacturing workforce.”
The evening kicked off at 5 p.m. with an exhibitor showcase, and by 6 p.m. the crowd was seated for a three-course meal. The keynote speaker, Jason Monahan, vice president and general manager of General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada, discussed how London’s factories are embracing automation, AI, and clean energy to stay competitive.
Between courses, organizers presented highlights of the region’s manufacturing news and latest data. For example, London’s advanced manufacturing sector employs roughly 34,300 people at around 500 companies, which equates to 12 per cent of the region’s workforce.
“By encouraging students to pursue careers in engineering and skilled trades, the CME Southwestern Ontario Scholarship Awards and Recognition Night helps build a pipeline of talent essential for the future of the manufacturing sector,” says Campbell. “As the industry faces a growing skills gap, investing in young people today ensures a competitive, innovative, and sustainable manufacturing workforce for tomorrow.”
The central purpose of the evening was encouraging the next generation of makers. The dinner doubled as a scholarship awards ceremony, recognizing students bound for careers in engineering and skilled trades. CME-SWOB has long supported education in manufacturing as its core mandate, over the years awarding more than $300,000 to over 275 students.
“The Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters Southwestern Ontario Annual Manufacturers Scholarship Awards and Recognition Night plays a vital role in inspiring and supporting the next generation of engineers and skilled trades professionals,” says Campbell. “By highlighting the wide range of rewarding, well-paying careers in manufacturing, the event helps to challenge outdated perceptions and encourage students and parents to see the industry as a promising and dynamic career path.”
This year's event disbursed $20,000 in scholarships among 10 people. The winners came from Western University’s engineering program, Fanshawe College, Lambton College and local high schools – each chosen for academic excellence and dedication to learning the technology and processes behind modern manufacturing. These students will receive funding to help cover tuition, tools or co-op work terms. By shining a spotlight on their achievements, the dinner sends a clear message: London’s industry needs skilled, creative talent.
“This event provides recognition and motivation by celebrating student achievements as well as raising awareness about excellent career opportunities in manufacturing,” says Campbell.
Awards night is also about mentorship and pride. Executives from small and large firms gave brief talks and noted how London-built products are used around the world – from car components to high-tech hockey pads. The London region provides a talented workforce to support advanced manufacturing, backed by research partnerships and training institutes.
“Events like this Inspire the next generation of talent,” says Campbell. “They spotlight manufacturing as a viable, rewarding career path, helping to attract young talent into the skilled trades and engineering.”
LEDC’s sponsorship ties this all together. 2022 data from the city shows LEDC helping dozens of manufacturers expand locally, assisting with land purchases, plant expansions and more, and even co-hosting conferences for the sector. Supporting the CME dinner is another piece of that puzzle, and another step to sustainable, inclusive growth. By investing in the students who become engineers, technicians and innovators, LEDC is helping to build the city’s future.
In the end, the CME dinner is a page in London’s economic playbook. It celebrates heritage and promoted innovation, underscores local pride and reminds attendees to continue educating and recruiting in this sector.
