High Wycombe-based Bradbury Tracks, a family-run manufacturer of bespoke curtain track systems, accessed the programme to trial a new digital approach through a funded internship - giving the business the opportunity to explore AI in a practical, low-risk way.

Through Made Smarter’s Digital Internship programme, Bradbury Tracks partnered with University of Southampton master’s student Adam Ahmed-Keyte to develop an AI-powered chatbot designed to support product specification and customer enquiries.

The project enabled the business to test a new technology opportunity that would have been difficult to resource internally, while benefiting from specialist expertise and fresh thinking.

Kris Theophanous, Managing Director of Bradbury Tracks, said:
“The internship allowed us to explore an AI project that we simply wouldn’t have had the capacity to progress on our own. Bringing in someone with specialist AI knowledge gave us a new perspective and helped us start turning ideas into something practical for the business.
“Adam’s placement proved so valuable that we’ve continued working with him as a paid member of the team.”

The Digital Internship programme - part of the wider Made Smarter South East offer - connects manufacturers with university students and graduates, helping businesses access digital skills while developing the future workforce.

For students, it offers valuable hands-on experience, applying academic learning to real-world challenges within industry.

Adam Ahmed-Keyte, who is studying for a master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence at the University of Southampton, said:
“The placement at Bradbury Tracks has given me a great opportunity to build my technical experience and apply what I’ve learned on my course within a real business environment.”

Bradbury Tracks is one of a growing number of Buckinghamshire manufacturers benefiting from Made Smarter South East, which BBF promotes locally to help businesses embrace digital technology and innovation.

Alongside internships, the programme offers fully funded digital roadmaps, leadership training and workforce development support, as well as match-funded grants of up to £20,000 to help manufacturers invest in new technologies.

Bryan Vint, Programme Manager for Made Smarter South East, said:
“One of the biggest barriers for many manufacturers is finding the time and expertise to explore digital opportunities.
“These internships help bridge that gap by connecting businesses with talented students who bring new skills and fresh ideas. Whether it’s AI, automation or improving digital processes, they provide a practical way to move projects forward.”

With demand growing, manufacturers across Buckinghamshire are being encouraged to explore how Made Smarter South East could support their ambitions.

If you’re a Buckinghamshire manufacturer interested in exploring how Made Smarter could support your business, contact the BBF Business Support team at [email protected].