Iscar Tools Named Headline Sponsor of Education & Development Zone at MACH 2026
Global tooling specialist Iscar Tools has confirmed its support for the Education and Development (E&D) Zone at MACH 2026, taking on the role of headline sponsor and underlining its commitment to inspiring the next generation of engineers to pursue careers in advanced manufacturing.
The E&D Zone forms the educational heart of MACH 2026, created to give students a clear insight into the opportunities available within engineering-based manufacturing and to help them identify their own pathway into the sector.
Commenting on the sponsorship, David Jones, General Manager of Iscar Tools UK, said:
“We are delighted to be sponsoring the E&D Zone at MACH 2026, ensuring the event can showcase the engineering-based manufacturing sector to the next generation of engineers.”
Like many industries, manufacturing continues to face challenges in attracting new talent. David Jones added:
“We have all experienced the shortage of engineers in our sector and it remains a key issue for many exhibitors and visiting companies alike. Iscar Tools is keen to inspire interest from a young age, and we strongly support the MTA’s work with schools in encouraging new talent to visit the show.”
A central feature of the E&D Zone is a programme of guided exhibition tours, delivered by apprentices from MTA member companies. These tours allow students to explore the latest manufacturing technologies, discover a wide range of career paths, and meet companies actively seeking new talent.
James Selka, CEO of the Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA), which owns and organises MACH, commented:
“Attracting new talent and retaining existing skills within our sector is a significant challenge—one that the MTA is determined to address. The dedicated E&D Zone at MACH is designed to inspire future generations to see advanced manufacturing as an exciting and rewarding career.”
With nearly 3,000 students aged between 11 and 18 expected to attend, MACH 2026 will offer hands-on activities and a compelling showcase of what a career in advanced manufacturing can look like. The E&D Zone is supported by organisations including the Royal Navy STEM Outreach team, STEM Racing (formerly F1 in Schools), the University of Wolverhampton, VEX Robotics, WorldSkills UK, Siemens plc, Harper Adams University, the Imagineering Foundation and Renishaw, with further supporters set to be announced in the coming months.
James Selka added:
“We are delighted that Iscar Tools has agreed to become headline sponsor of the E&D Zone. Their invaluable support enables the MTA to continue funding transport for schools and colleges that might otherwise be unable to attend the event.”
Schools and colleges can register their interest in attending the E&D Zone via the MACH website, which includes a dedicated group registration portal. Places are limited and early booking is strongly advised. Parents and guardians are also welcome to attend the show and bring students with them; however, students aged 11 to 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
In addition to supporting the E&D Zone, Iscar Tools will exhibit in the Tooling Zone at MACH 2026 on stand 18-340, where they will showcase their latest cutting tool innovations. Iscar products will also feature in live demonstrations across multiple machine tool stands throughout the exhibition.
