Portsmouth manufacturer taps into university talent to accelerate digital transformation
A lighting and power product manufacturers is accelerating technology adoption by partnering with a university student through Made Smarter South East's Digital Internship programme.
The government-funded initiative is helping SMEs access specialist digital skills and emerging talent through funded university placements, providing a low-risk way to explore and deploy new technologies to the factory floor.
At the same time, students gain valuable hands-on experience, applying their academic know-how to real manufacturing challenges while developing the technical, commercial and professional skills employers are looking for.
NightSearcher partnered with University of Portsmouth master's student Pyae Aung to support the implementation of a new ERP system and the digitisation of warehouse operations.
Colin Howard, Managing Director of NightSearcher, said: "The internship gave us additional resources exactly when we needed it. Implementing new technology alongside running a busy manufacturing operation is a huge task, so having somebody focused on supporting that transition has been incredibly valuable."
Pyae Aung, who is studying Digital Business Management at the University of Portsmouth, said: "My internship with NightSearcher was a first opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills I'd gained through my studies to a real industrial project with tangible outcomes. It was an incredibly rewarding experience. It strengthened my technical skills, improved my communication and professional confidence, and gave me valuable insight into how a manufacturing business operates."
With Five internships have already been completed, and a further 12 opportunities currently being delivered or recruited, Made Smarter South East is encouraging businesses across the region to explore how a digital internship could support their ambitions.
Bryan Vint, Programme Manager for Made Smarter South East, said: "One of the biggest barriers to digital transformation for many manufacturers is finding the time and specialist expertise needed to turn ideas into reality.
"These digital internships help overcome that challenge by connecting businesses with talented students and graduates who bring new skills, knowledge and fresh thinking into the organisation. Whether it's exploring AI, automating processes or improving digital workflows, the placements provide a practical, low-risk way for manufacturers to access specialist expertise and accelerate projects.*
"At the same time, students gain invaluable experience working on real business challenges, applying their learning in a commercial environment and developing the skills employers are looking for. By connecting manufacturers with emerging digital talent from universities across the region, the programme is helping strengthen the future skills pipeline and creating benefits for businesses, students and the wider manufacturing sector."
Digital Internships form part of Made Smarter South East's wider support programme, which also includes digital roadmaps, leadership training and workforce development, and match-funded grants of up to £20,000 to help manufacturers adopt new technologies.