An electronics firm in North Wales is set to expand its workforce fivefold and establish a new manufacturing plant, following support from a university-led business scheme.
RAM Innovations, based in Deeside, has outlined ambitious growth plans that will see its staff numbers increase from 11 to more than 60. The company, which specialises in providing services to the global semiconductor and electronics industries, received two grants through Bangor University’s Skills and Innovation Voucher (SIV) Scheme. The SIV project is funded by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund and operates in Gwynedd, Anglesey, and Flintshire.
Peter Green, General Manager at RAM Innovations, confirmed the company’s intention to build on its research and development (R&D) foundations and move towards full-scale production in the coming years. He said: “Our vision is to continue growing the business here in north-east Wales. We have an amazing team, all from this region, who are vital to our success.”
The firm specialises in embedded die packaging (EDP) technology and has a strong focus on advancing sustainable practices, including a commitment to achieving net zero emissions in the near future.
RAM Innovations received one of its SIV grants to conduct academic research in collaboration with the University’s Biocomposites Centre, where the focus was on developing non-toxic resins to embed electronic chips into devices. The second grant funded a three-month graduate internship, which was filled by Lili McDonald Mawdesley, a former Electronic Engineering student from Llanfairfechan.
Lili has since been offered a permanent role as a process engineer with RAM Innovations, marking a successful transition from university to industry. Speaking about her new position, Lili said, “I have really enjoyed my time at RAM Innovations and had always been interested in engineering. To now be in the sector and beginning my career with them is brilliant.”
Peter Green praised the partnership with Bangor University and highlighted the importance of nurturing local talent, especially in a sector where the demand for qualified engineers is high. “We are one of the few remaining engineering R&D firms in the country, so there is scope for us to expand,” he added. “With Lili’s addition to the team, we are on our way.”
The SIV Scheme has proven to be a valuable resource for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in North Wales, providing businesses with fully funded support for research, training, and internships.
Nicola Sturrs, Business Development Manager at Bangor University, said: “This is a great example of how valuable the SIV scheme has been, providing opportunities that lead to employment, while giving businesses the support they need to grow.”
So far, 40 vouchers have been awarded to companies across Gwynedd, Anglesey, and Flintshire. Nicola added, “We are delighted the internship was a success and wish Lili and RAM Innovations the best of luck for the future.”
RAM Innovations’ expansion plans are part of a broader trend in the Welsh electronics sector, where innovation and sustainability are driving growth. The firm’s plans to establish a manufacturing facility in the region reflect its commitment to strengthening its presence in the UK and international markets.
