The value of creating a stronger careers routeThe North East Automotive Alliance strongly supports the Government’s landmark education overhaul, which introduces early-access technical pathways for 14-year-olds to elevate vocational training alongside traditional academic routes. As the designated manager of the North East Local Skills Improvement Plan (NELSIP), the alliance views this policy as a vital structural shift to directly address acute engineering and advanced manufacturing skills shortages across the region. The NELSIP 2026–2029 identifies workforce resilience, social inclusion and the creation of clear vocational pathways into employment as key regional priorities. NELSIP calls for stronger technical pathways, greater employer engagement, increased access to level three to eight technical skills and closer collaboration between schools, colleges, universities and employers to ensure every young person can access opportunities that lead to meaningful careers. Paul Butler is chief executive of the North East Automotive AllianceWant your business, product or service to be seen regionally and nationally?