Special Melted Products Engineering Employer Skills Academy
The Special Melted Products Engineering Employer Skills Academy provides students with the opportunity to develop industry knowledge, technical skills and professional confidence through engagement with one of Sheffield's leading advanced manufacturing businesses. Designed to support engineering students, the academy connects classroom learning with real-world engineering applications, helping learners gain valuable insight into the materials, technologies and processes that power some of the world's most demanding industries.
Through employer-led activities, industry experiences and specialist workshops, students will gain a greater understanding of advanced manufacturing, metallurgy and engineering careers while developing the skills needed to progress into apprenticeships, higher education or employment within the sector.
About Special Melted Products Engineering Employer Skills Academy
The Special Melted Products Engineering Employer Skills Academy has been developed to support students who are interested in careers within engineering, manufacturing and advanced materials. Working in partnership with Special Melted Products Ltd (SMP), the academy gives learners direct access to industry expertise, helping them understand how engineering knowledge is applied within highly specialised manufacturing environments.
Throughout their studies, students will have opportunities to engage in employer-led workshops, masterclasses, site visits and industry-focused projects. These activities will provide valuable insight into the engineering sector while helping students develop a greater understanding of modern manufacturing processes, quality standards and workplace expectations.
The academy encourages students to explore the wide range of careers available within engineering and advanced manufacturing, from production and materials testing to design, quality assurance and project management. By working alongside industry professionals, students will develop the technical knowledge, employability skills and confidence needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving industry.
Students will develop knowledge and skills in areas including:
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Advanced manufacturing processes
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Engineering materials and metallurgy
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Quality assurance and testing
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Health, safety and industry standards
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Engineering design and problem-solving
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Project planning and continuous improvement
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Professional behaviours and workplace expectations
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Career opportunities within engineering and manufacturing
Latest News
The Sheffield College scheme with employers to boost student career prospects secures new sign-ups
26/10/2026
The Sheffield College
"Engineering and manufacturing are built on innovation, precision and expertise. We are proud to work with The Sheffield College to help students develop the skills and knowledge needed to become the next generation of engineering professionals."
Rebecca Ward, Head of HR
About our Employer
Special Melted Products Ltd (SMP) is a Sheffield-based manufacturer of premium speciality steels and nickel-based superalloys used in critical applications across the aerospace, energy, oil and gas, and civil nuclear sectors. With a manufacturing heritage that can be traced back to the 19th century, the company has developed into one of the UK's leading producers of high-integrity engineered materials.
Operating across multiple facilities in Sheffield, SMP provides a comprehensive range of capabilities including vacuum induction melting (VIM), electroslag remelting (ESR), forging, heat treatment, machining, testing and inspection. As one of the few remaining UK manufacturers able to produce high-integrity re-melted materials, the company plays a vital role in supporting industries where reliability, safety and performance are paramount.
SMP is recognised for its metallurgical expertise, technical innovation and commitment to quality throughout the manufacturing process. By combining advanced production capabilities with rigorous testing and continuous improvement, the company delivers bespoke solutions to customers across global markets. Through its partnership with The Sheffield College, SMP is helping to inspire and develop the next generation of engineers by sharing industry knowledge, showcasing career opportunities and supporting students as they prepare for successful careers within advanced manufacturing and engineering.