News | 12/09/2024

Made in Huntingdonshire: AC Composites

Innovation and Growth in Advanced Manufacturing

Background

AC Composites, located on Lord de Ramsey’s estate in Abbots Ripton, has rapidly become a leading player in the advanced manufacturing sector. AC Composites was founded by Managing Director Andy Carroll. Over the years, the company has become a significant contributor to the aerospace and motorsport industries, including collaborations with high-profile Formula 1 teams.

 

Growth and Expansion

Since its inception, AC Composites has seen remarkable growth, significantly supported by Huntingdonshire’s Economic Development team and the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority, both have provided essential grants and advisory services. As a result, AC Composites quickly outgrew its initial premises and had to expand into a mezzanine floor. This expansion has been crucial in accommodating the increasing order book and the growing team.

Reflecting on the support received, Andy Carroll stated, "We’ve been quite lucky with Huntingdonshire’s District Council’s Economic Development team, and the regional Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority in particular have been excellent for us." He further emphasised,  ""We've received grant funding and support that has been invaluable to our growth, helping us purchase machinery and train staff that would have been difficult for a small business like ours."

 

Technological Innovation and Community Impact

AC Composites is at the forefront of technological innovation, particularly evident in their involvement with drone technology in Africa. These drones are designed to transport medical supplies, such as blood samples and vaccines, autonomously between villages and hospitals.

The company’s collaboration with universities like Sheffield and Leeds demonstrates their dedication to educational outreach and community engagement. By involving students in real-world projects, such as rocket building, AC Composites not only advances technological research but also nurtures the next generation of engineers and technicians.

 

Strategic Location and Workforce Development

Located in the scenic Abbots Ripton, AC Composites benefits from both a tranquil working environment and excellent transport links. The proximity to major roads like the A1 and A14 ensures seamless logistics, essential for their operations. The rural setting, complemented by local amenities like the high-quality village pub and store, provides an attractive workspace for employees and visiting companies.

Recruitment and workforce development are key strengths of AC Composites. The company has successfully attracted skilled talent, many of whom were previously employed by other composite firms. By offering long-term contracts and supporting career progression, AC Composites has built a loyal and capable team. Andy Carroll's approach to training, which includes collaborations with educational institutions and a focus on hands-on experience, ensures a steady influx of skilled workers.

AC Composites is also deeply committed to fostering the next generation of skilled workers through apprenticeship programs and collaborations with local schools. By offering apprenticeships, the company provides invaluable hands-on experience and training, equipping young individuals with the necessary skills to thrive in the advanced manufacturing industry. These initiatives not only benefit the students, but also help AC Composites by creating a pipeline of well-trained, local talent. This focus on education and training strengthens the local community and ensures a steady influx of skilled workers, essential for the company's ongoing growth and success.

 

Benefits of an Industry Knowledge Hub

The presence of other similar businesses in the area has created a robust industry knowledge hub, significantly benefiting AC Composites. Huntingdonshire is home to several composite companies, including TRB Lightweight Structures, CP Composites, Performance Composites, Ace Technology, and Multimatic. This concentration of expertise fosters a collaborative environment where companies can share knowledge, best practices, and resources.

The proximity of these businesses allows for the easy transfer of skills and personnel. Contractors can move between companies as projects demand, ensuring a steady flow of experienced workers. This dynamic is particularly advantageous for managing the cyclical nature of industries like Formula 1, where labour demands fluctuate throughout the year.

Having a network of similar businesses nearby also facilitates innovation and problem-solving. Companies can collaborate on research and development projects, share advanced manufacturing techniques, and collectively push the boundaries of what is possible in composite manufacturing. This synergy not only accelerates technological advancements but also enhances the competitiveness of the entire region.

The geographical concentration of composite firms attracts a steady stream of talent to the area. Skilled workers are drawn to the region from across the country, knowing that there are multiple employment opportunities and a vibrant community of professionals. This talent pool is crucial for AC Composites as it expands and takes on more complex projects.

 

Future Directions

Looking ahead, AC Composites faces several strategic priorities. With the current premises reaching capacity, there is a potential need for additional space. With their strategic location in Abbots Ripton, the site offers plenty of space for the business to expand and grow to meet the demands of the industry.

As the industry evolves, diversifying their production capabilities will be crucial. This includes exploring new markets and expanding their product range to include more innovative solutions like the aforementioned drone technology.

Continued collaboration with economic development teams and securing further grants will be essential in sustaining their growth trajectory. Investing in new technologies and maintaining high standards of quality will keep AC Composites at the forefront of the industry.

Enhancing partnerships with educational institutions and local businesses will not only contribute to the community but also ensure a robust talent pipeline for the future.

 

Innovation, Community and Strategy Growth

AC Composites exemplifies the synergy between innovation, community engagement, and strategic growth. Under Andy Carroll's leadership, the company has transformed from a small offshoot to a major player in the aerospace and motorsport sectors.

By continuing to focus on technological advancements, workforce development, and strategic expansion, AC Composites is well-positioned for a prosperous future. The benefits of being part of a thriving industry knowledge hub cannot be overstated, providing AC Composites with the resources, talent, and collaborative opportunities necessary to sustain and accelerate their growth.

 

Why Huntingdonshire?

"AC Composites' location in Abbots Ripton is crucial to our success in advanced manufacturing. The area provides excellent transport links via the A1 and A14, facilitating seamless logistics for our operations. Additionally, the scenic and tranquil environment, complemented by local amenities, offers an attractive workspace for employees and visiting companies. The proximity to other composite firms in Huntingdonshire creates a robust industry knowledge hub, fostering collaboration and innovation. This synergy enhances our ability to attract skilled talent, share best practices, and push the boundaries of composite manufacturing. Our strategic location is fundamental to sustaining growth and driving future success."

 

Interview with: Andy Carroll, Managing Director
Interview date: 19th June 2024

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