NWAA PlaneTalk Summer 2025

PLANE TALK

SUMMER 2025

Cyber Security: sound advice is here

Also: Success stories | Future proofing aerospace manufacturing | Upcoming events

By Paula Gill NWAA Chief Exec’s summer statement

CONTENTS

As we embrace the summer months, the aerospace sector continues to soar to new heights, driven by innovation, collaboration, and resilience. The North West Aerospace Alliance stands at the forefront of this dynamic industry, championing progress and ensuring our region remains a powerhouse for aerospace advancements. In this edition of Plane Talk, we celebrate the incredible strides made by our members in pioneering sustainable aviation, enhancing supply chain capabilities, and driving cutting-edge technologies. From breakthrough manufacturing techniques to strategic partnerships shaping the future of flight, our network remains unwavering in its commitment to excellence. Looking ahead, we will be focusing the next quarter on funding opportunities that will enable growth and development for our members. Through our key events, BIG 4 and AGP Rate Readiness in June , we aim to give our members a platform to engage with major Primes, asking critical questions about timeframes for ramp-up and upcoming industry opportunities . Will we see you in Paris? On 16th June , the Paris Airshow opens at Le Bourget, and I look forward to personally visiting your stands, connecting with members, and discussing the future of aerospace. For those walking the floor, I encourage you to visit the NWAA/ Oxley Group stand at H170 in the UK Pavilion , as we test the event in preparation for 2027 , where we hope to host a multi- member stand . Keep your options open— this could be a prime opportunity to showcase your capabilities in Paris ‘27 with NWAA.

During the show, we will also be collaborating with DBT on the UK Supplier Discovery Tours , which many of you have already submitted capabilities for. With top-tier customers including Airbus, Boeing, Embraer, and more , I wish all participants the best of luck and look forward to sharing the success stories that emerge from these engagements. As we move into early July , our focus will turn to innovation and technology —key drivers of competitiveness in aerospace. I am pleased to invite you to our ATI Technology Insight Day , where we will host a focused Aerospace Innovator Bootcamp . This event will bring together technology specialists to share Technology roadmaps and funding opportunities for businesses seeking to advance their technological innovation capabilities in the sector. I encourage you to explore the pages ahead, where you’ll find insightful perspectives, industry updates, and success stories that reflect the strength and ambition of our alliance. Together, we propel the North West’s aerospace sector towards a future defined by ingenuity and progress. As always, I would like to thank you for your continued support and engagement, and I look forward to working alongside you as we chart the course for the next chapter of our industry’s success.

02 Chairman’s statement

03 New members

You said. We listened.

04 Member News

14 Meet the team

15 Meet the board

16 NWAA Annual Ball 2025

Best regards,

Paula Gill NWAA Chief Exec

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Member News

Airframe Designs creates full-scale 3D-printed torpedo mock-up for major defence contractor

Aerospace leader Airframe Designs has been working with a global prime defence contractor to create a full-scale 3D-printed mock-up of a torpedo- style weapon using polymer additive manufacturing.

The audit required the organisation to assess environmental issues relevant to its operation including waste management, use of resources and efficiency. Airframe Designs continues to grow its specialisms in producing highly complex components to some of the largest aviation, defence and space organisations worldwide. Recent projects undertaken by the company include the integration of new systems into heavy lift drone platforms, conceptual design at a platform level for new uncrewed air- systems, test rig and tooling for electric vehicle propulsion systems and most recently the design and analysis of operator consoles for a special mission aircraft.

The mock-up provides a physical and accurate visual representation of the artifact to help the customer evaluate the loading- unloading of the store to a new delivery platform. In creating the mock-up design, ready for additive manufacturing, the team at Airframe Designs assessed the critical aspects of feasibility, accessibility and safety but also introduced stiffening features to ensure the mock-up could be handled with sufficient rigidity. Jerrod Hartley, CEO of Blackpool-based Airframe Designs, said: “Working with our partner, we created this mock-up in a very short lead time to ensure they had what they needed when they needed it. “We thrive on providing bespoke solutions engineered and crafted specifically to help our customers reduce their project lead times and improve their cost-effectiveness.” The 2.7 metres-long mock-up was designed by highly experienced engineers using computer-aided design with low-cost material and rapid prototype printers to create a lightweight, robust structure with the relevant torsional stiffness and overall robustness. Large sections of the mock-up were printed using a Builder Pro large format 3D printer and toughened PLA material, with the final sections built on a Stratasys Fortus 450mc industrial FDM machine using ASA thermoplastic. Using different printers and material systems enabled the project to progress at pace whilst aligning technologies with the complexity of parts. Meanwhile, Airframe Designs recently proved its commitment to environmental management and continual improvement by successfully achieving the prestigious ISO 14001 certification.

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Member News

Growth continues at AMS with new staff, new machines and upcoming events

Finally, AMS is pleased to share we are sponsors at this year’s TCT 3Sixty Event at NEC, Birmingham from 4-6th June 2025. We look forward to seeing as many of you there as possible to discuss what we are currently up to in more details and possible ways to collaborate as AMS continues to grow from strength to strength and enhance our capabilities.

It has been a busy time at Additive Manufacturing Solutions in Burscough, Lancashire. We have welcomed two new members of staff who we are thrilled to have on board. This includes Ian Marsh, Senior AM Engineer and Isaac Ashcroft, Apprentice AM Engineer. Ian comes with a wealth of experience in the field of AM and will be supporting the growth of the business with a particular focus on our powder capabilities, test lab and AM production. Isaac will be starting university in September on a degree apprenticeship and will be supporting across the full AM process.

The Electroform 300 in operation (Courtesy AMS/Holdson)

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Hyde Aero Products A Hyde Group Holdings Company

In addition to new staff, we have a new machine coming on board which we are delighted with. We have acquired an Electroform electrochemical polishing machine from Holdson Limited, Skelmanthorpe, UK. The Electroform is used for the post-processing of metal additively manufactured parts, providing an efficient and sustainable solution to achieving smooth uniform surfaces, without impacting intricate geometries. The Electroform offers a controlled and repeatable method of material removal and enables the polishing of internal channels and complex shapes that would otherwise be difficult to reach using conventional methods. Robert Higham, Director and CEO of AMS, said, “We were thoroughly impressed by the results achieved during the initial trials with Electroform. Bringing this technology in-house opens up new possibilities for us to enhance surface quality, reduce processing times, and meet the high standards our clients expect. This investment aligns perfectly with our commitment to continuous improvement and sustainability.” Pictured is Isaac Ashcroft and Ian Marsh (AMS)

@NWAerospace

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Member News

Are you aware of the new Cyber Advisor scheme?

Many members of the North West Aerospace Alliance (NWAA) are undoubtedly familiar with Cyber Essentials, the UK Government’s cyber security certification scheme introduced in 2014, aimed at helping micro, small, and medium companies, charities, and other organisations become cyber secure through the implementation of five basic cyber security measures. Last year Cyber Essentials celebrated its first 10 years of operation. The scheme has been unbelievably successful with over 200,000 organisations certifying between 2014 and 2024.

knowledge regarding Cyber Essentials, but also for their soft skills in being able to work with such organisations when providing guidance and consultancy. It is must also be said that the Cyber Advisor scheme not only aims to raise the quality of the guidance given but also aims to elevate the professionalism of those engaged in providing that guidance.

According to the UK National Cyber Security Centre’s Annual Review, over 44,000 Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus certificates awarded in 2024 alone, a 16% increase on the previous year. But how many readers are aware that there is a new dimension to Cyber Essentials in the form of the Cyber Advisor scheme? What is the Cyber Advisor scheme? The Cyber Advisor scheme, developed by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), is designed to give organisations confidence that their chosen service provider is providing reliable cyber security advice and practical support for the implementation of Cyber Essentials. Why has this happened? It has long been recognised that many organisations struggle to meet the requirements of the Cyber Essentials standard by themselves and often need help from external bodies, but that the quality of this external advice can vary considerably, especially since there are many organisations who provide guidance for Cyber Essentials yet are not Cyber Essentials certification bodies themselves. Consequently, Cyber Advisors are not only chosen for their technical ability and

Why choose Bergerode Consulting as a Cyber Advisor?

Bergerode Consulting is the leading Cyber Essentials certification body in NW England and is a Cyber Advisor and a NCSC Assured Service Provider for the delivery of Cyber Essentials. We are also a CAA ASSURE cyber audit body and a BSI Associate Consultant for ISO 27001 and ISO 22301. Since 2018 Bergerode Consulting has certified hundreds of organisations across the UK, Europe, and North America to Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus. Bergerode Consulting works with organisations of all sizes in many activities including defence, engineering, manufacturing, health care, and service providers. As a Cyber Advisor and a NCSC Assured Service Provider Bergerode Consulting can be relied upon to provide

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low-cost and effective solutions for the implementation of Cyber Essentials for NWAA members.

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Member News

Top 10 considerations when searching for a bolt-on acquisition in the aerospace industry

administrative functions, reducing overhead costs, leveraging combined customer base and optimising production processes. 9. Management team and employee expertise It’s important to assess the quality and expertise of the target company’s management team too. Retaining key talent can be crucial for a smooth transition and ongoing success as well as maintaining business continuity and achieving strategic goals. Assess the skills and expertise of the current management team and identify any gaps.

outline how the acquired company will be integrated into your existing operations, including timelines, key milestones, and responsible parties. A strategic, effective plan will ensure a smooth transition and minimise disruption, especially for complex aerospace projects. 4. Cultural compatibility One of your main considerations should be the cultural fit between your company and the target. Cultural misalignment can lead to integration challenges and negatively impact employee morale and productivity. Consider the target’s core values and missions, leadership style, and communication practices, as well as whether they line up with your own. 5. Financial capability You’ll need to ensure that you have the financial resources to support the acquisition and subsequent integration. This includes considering the costs of the acquisition and, potential synergies as well as any, unexpected expenses, and the impact on your overall financial health, with a focus on aerospace-specific financial considerations. 6. Market position and growth potential Evaluating the target company’s market position and growth potential is crucial. You should look for companies that can provide access to new markets, customer segments, or technologies that can drive growth to help you gain a competitive edge in the aerospace industry. 7. Regulatory and legal considerations Be aware of any regulatory or legal issues that may arise from the acquisition. This includes competition and market laws, industry-specific regulations, and potential liabilities, particularly those relevant to aerospace standards and certifications. 8. Synergy realisation Identifying and quantifying potential synergies from the acquisition can help you to assess if the business is the right fit. These may include cost savings, revenue enhancements and operational efficiencies that can be achieved by combining the two companies. Examples include consolidating

Expanding through acquisitions — also known as a ‘buy and build’ approach — can be an effective growth strategy for businesses operating in the aerospace sector. It allows your business to acquire new customers, enhance capabilities, adopt innovative technology, access new markets, and create strategic synergies. When searching for bolt-on acquisitions under a buy and build strategy, there are several key factors to consider to ensure successful integration and value creation. Here, Mairead Platt in the Brabners corporate team explains the top ten things you need to consider when searching for your next acquisition target in the aerospace sector.

10. Monitoring and measuring success

You should also aim to establish metrics to measure the success of the acquisition and ensure that it delivers the expected value and benefits. This includes tracking KPIs such as financial performance, integration progress, and achievement of strategic objectives, with specific metrics relevant to aerospace operations. Talk to us By carefully considering these factors, you can increase the likelihood of a successful bolt-on acquisition that enhances your company’s growth and competitive position in the aerospace industry. Our corporate team has an impressive track record of supporting acquisitive businesses with their strategies and transactions. Plus, as the only UK law firm with dedicated deal advisors we can even support you with identifying and making contact with your acquisition targets. This unique offering gives you access to the best possible financial and legal advice in one cohesive place. If you’re considering a buy and build strategy or need support with an acquisition, talk to us by giving us a call, sending us an email or completing our contact form.

1. Strategic fit It’s key to make sure that the target company aligns with your long-term vision and goals — whether it’s expanding your product line, entering new markets, or enhancing technological capabilities. The acquisition should complement your existing operations, products, or services within the aerospace industry. 2. Comprehensive due diligence It’s wise to conduct thorough due diligence to understand the target company’s financial health, market position, and potential risks. This includes evaluating its customer base, technology, and operational capabilities to understand the true value and any hidden liabilities. 3. Integration plan Developing a clear and detailed integration plan will set you up for success. This should

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@NWAerospace

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Member News

Brookhouse delivers the full treatment Brookhouse Aerospace has opened up its surface treatment capabilities in response to increased demand across the aero-structures sector.

aircraft programmes”, says Matthew Rossiter, CEO at Brookhouse Aerospace. “Demonstrating that we have immediate capacity to deliver exceptional levels of performance on speed shop and standard lead times, quality and sustainability, will help to retain this key capability within the UK.” High demand for surface treatment expertise is increasingly leading to extended lead times and a reduction in the range of solutions available to the market. From its ISO9001 accredited and NADCAP certified treatment facility, Brookhouse now offers its full range of flaw detection, anodising and finishing treatments – including less widely available legacy options and sustainable alternatives – within market- leading turnaround times. “Lead time, quality and price were most important to us when looking for a new treatment house”, said Paul Bowker, Quality/Technical Director at Apel Limited. “From day one, working

with Brookhouse has been a seamless process all round. Orders are fulfilled on-time, internal processes are efficient and the right paperwork is provided. Plus, the team are great to work with – showing a high level of flexibility and attention to detail throughout.” Specialising in aero-structure composites, fabrication, machining, treatments and engineering, Brookhouse Aerospace expanded in 2024 with the addition of a brand-new 41,000 sq ft manufacturing facility and head office, to support long-term growth plans.

Recent capacity surveys undertaken by Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) have highlighted that additional surface treatment capacity is needed across the supply chain to support upcoming civil and military aircraft programmes. To deliver increased capacity to the market, Brookhouse has realigned its surface treatments production capabilities, which previously were dedicated solely to treating its own manufactured parts, to offer expertise to the wider supply chain.

Surface treatment capability at Brookhouse Aerospace

“Our focus is on maximising the scope of an underutilised capability to support the ramping up of future

Surface treatment production line at Brookhouse Aerospace

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Member News

Hybrid additive machine concept

Further testing In testing, the concept has proven it to be as capable as expected. The company are currently working on producing example test pieces and looking to move to the next stage with R&D projects of real-world products to trial manufacture, and funded R&D projects to investigate ways to manufacture new products that can’t be machined from billet. If you think you have a use case for this technology, then we would be happy to talk to you. The next step We are also looking to place the prototype machine in an R&D or manufacturing facility and find a machine tool OEM or partner to help develop the concept further and take this new and innovative machine design to market.

Using inverted workpiece and horizontal milling spindle configuration for efficient swarf clearing, the hybrid process allows near net shape metal deposition for minimal material removal and wastage, saving raw material and tooling costs. The design of the machine allows the design and manufacture of highly complex components to be printed and machined in multiple stages, to a finished product, machined in areas that can’t be reach by conventional methods from billet, on a single platform with no additional set ups. The advantage in using this approach means that new components can be designed around a completely flexible manufacturing process, with high deposition rates and minimal material removal. The design also facilitates repair operations on existing components such as casings and blisks, where material can be added, measured, machined and measured again on the same platform in a single set-up.

Effective CNC Solutions Ltd have developed and patented a new concept hybrid 5 axis Metal Additive Mill-Turn machine tool. Using a 3-axis bed mill format with a 2-axis trunnion table to manipulate the workpiece in 5-axis around fixed position spindle, turning turret and WAAM additive head stations. Controlled by the powerful Siemens - Sinumerik One - CNC, a bespoke tool probing system from Renishaw, the latest WAAM CMT material deposition system from Fronius and a 6 axis robot arm for tool changing, the machine is designed with Aerospace and defence manufacturing as the central market to manufacture components in excess of 800mm diameter or 600mm cube.

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Member News

Improving cost savings with Castrol Hysol SL 45 XBB

Concentrate usage was also reviewed and then subsequently optimised throughout the trial period. Outcome The customer was extremely impressed with the results of the trial. Castrol Hysol SL 45 XBB delivered a preliminary 73% total cost reduction. In comparison to the competitor fluids in the trial, it maintained the lowest concentration – with 4% for machined aluminium and 8-10% on all other materials. Castrol Hysol SL 45 XBB eliminated all dermatitis concerns, biological odours, and additive usage within the trial – whilst still observing a 53% reduction in fluid usage and a 35% improvement in tool life. Advice To discuss your industrial lubricant needs or to see what we can do for you. Contact Kernow Oils us on 01736 757 002, email at info@ kernow-oils.co.uk or visit our website. We take a look at a renowned aerospace and bearing manufacturer in the USA. This case study focuses on moving their milling and turning operations over to Castrol Hysol SL 45 XBB cutting fluid following high additive usage, skin concerns, increasing odour issues, poor tool life and high fluid consumption. Over the agreed trial period, Castrol Hysol SL 45 XBB gave a cost reduction of 73%, whilst eliminating dermatitis concerns, extending tool life by 35%, and improving consumption by 53%. Read the case study summary to see how moving to Castrol Hysol SL 45 XBB achieved these figures.

Sector | Industrial Sub-sector | Aerospace

Application | Milling (general machining), Turning (general machining) Product | Castrol Hysol SL 45 XBB

Background A major aerospace and bearing manufacturer in the USA approached Castrol seeking a replacement cutting fluid to improve total operational costs within their milling and turning operations. They were also experiencing operator skin concerns, biological odour, and high additive usage – alongside poor tool life and high fluid consumption. We recommended a switch to Castrol Hysol SL 45 XBB. The customer was very impressed with the results over the agreed trial period, observing a total cost reduction of 73%, whilst eliminating all dermatitis concerns, extending tool life by 35%, and improving consumption by 53%. Challenge The customer is a renowned aerospace and bearing manufacturer based in the USA. They approached Castrol seeking a replacement cutting fluid for their milling and turning operations. The customer was using a competitor product, and was experiencing several issues. They were struggling with high operational costs, poor tool life and part quality, high concentration and consumption levels, and operator skin issue concerns. To make an informed decision, the customer decided to conduct a year-long trial of

various selected cutting fluids to identify one that would best improve their total operating costs. The minimum fluid requirements were aerospace approval, global availability, and semi-synthetic chemistry. Castrol were compared against several other competitor products, and they were tested by machining materials including inconel, stainless steel, stellite, titanium, tungsten, and aerospace aluminium. Solution After consideration of the trial requirements and a survey of the customer’s plant, it was determined that Castrol Hysol SL 45 XBB would be the best choice for their process – a one-stop solution. It is a high- performance, soluble metalworking fluid which is formulated without boron, formaldehyde- releasing agent and chlorine. It contains an additive package that helps to enhance machining performance and surface finish. It also provides good product stability which helps to lower the overall operational costs. After being provided with a comprehensive fluid control plan, to effectively monitor and maintain the coolant systems. In addition, machining operations were closely monitored on titanium, inconel, tungsten, and stellite – keeping a close observation on noted improvements in both part quality and tool life.

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Member News

Research and Development (R+D) - Success story

We have worked closely on their R+D claim/journey recently and look forward in continuing a successful relationship with the Brookhouse team. Vault Consultancy, offer businesses, tax efficient ways to reduce corporation tax, protect assets, offer tailored tax planning and can potentially help reduce running costs in a volatile economy. For a free business health check or to find out more, Contact Scott on 07824 887896 or email info@vaultconsultancy.co.uk

We had the pleasure of visiting Brookhouse Aerospace’s new facility, Simon Smith (Business Development Director) showed us round and explained some of their plans for the future. The new facility is very impressive and will create more jobs and make the work flow more streamline.

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@NWAerospace

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Member News

Future-proofing aerospace manufacturing: Why upgrading to SICK’s microscan3 is a smart move

Let’s make the transition easy Upgrading doesn’t have to be complicated. LC Automation is here to help. We can help to assess your existing laser scanners, recommend the best upgrade solution, and support a seamless transition to the latest safety technology. Call LC Automation on 01254 685900 to discuss your upgrade options and ensure your aerospace manufacturing facility is ready for the future.

machine downtime, or enhance productivity, this state-of-the-art solution is designed to meet the needs of advanced aerospace production environments - and it saves space too! Why now is the right time to upgrade As part of the Aerospace supply chain, you can’t forget about safety, efficiency, and compliance for a moment. Relying on outdated safety equipment puts that at risk and increases operational vulnerabilities if legacy systems fail.

Is your safety equipment keeping up?

As safety regulations evolve, UK aerospace manufacturers face increasing pressure to ensure their production environments meet the latest standards. Legacy equipment, like the SICK S3000 safety laser scanner, has been a reliable industry staple, but now it’s time for an upgrade. SICK’s next generation microScan3 and nanoScan3 safety laser scanners offer superior protection, operational efficiency, and compliance with modern safety demands. But with change comes questions; how do you ensure a smooth transition? That’s where we come in. LC Automation’s team of experts specialise in safety and automation, helping aerospace manufacturers future-proof their operations. Next-generation safety for aerospace manufacturing The microScan3 isn’t just a replacement for the S3000, it’s a technological leap forward. Whether you need to protect workers, prevent

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By upgrading, you’ll benefit from:

Enhanced workplace safety in line with evolving industry standards Improved machine uptime and efficiency with smarter, adaptable systems Future-ready automation that supports ongoing digitalisation initiatives

Lancashire-based Green Shield Group install cutting-edge solar wall at Addison Group as part of the group’s wider CSR strategy

with Positive Planet to successfully measure and reduce the firm’s carbon footprint as well as a number of other initiatives including a shift to solar energy and the install of low level and quiet wind turbines, to supplement the businesses self-supply energy consumption when solar isn’t available in the winter months. Green Shield Group’s latest installation is supporting this green initiative and is contributing an additional CO2 saving of over 24,000kg per year for the business. The Solar PV installed on their south facing wall utilises a bespoke mounting system, with 100% of the generated energy usable direct on site by Addison Group.

Renewable energy providers Green Shield Group (GSG) have announced an award- winning solar wall project at Addison Group, their third project focusing on solar wall technology within the aerospace and manufacturing industry. Addison Group, based in Lancashire appointed Green Shield Group to deliver a 70.98 kWp roof and wall solar PV system saving the business an additional £10,000 in energy costs on the first year and supporting Addison Group’s wider sustainability strategy whilst also providing a return on investment on this unique installation within seven years. Addison Group has developed a CSR strategy over the last 12 months partnering

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Member News

Wallwork spotlights increases in thermal treatment processing capacity at Paris Airshow

provides a truly one-stop shop. Providing sole supplier responsibility, for heat treatments, vacuum brazing, PVD and bespoke ultra hard/thin coating services. The company has over 50 years of experience, operates from four UK sites, has multiple laboratory facilities, and research and development teams working closely with aerospace component manufacturers across civil and defence. Come along to Hall 1, Stand G-321 – you will find one of the most comprehensive ranges of aerospace thermal processes and hard coating services available from a single supplier. With EN9100, Nadcap, ITAR compliance and many major prime approvals, your components are in safe hands.

The EN9100 certified HIP Centre has been servicing aerospace customers producing metal and ceramic parts that are made from highly loaded materials. These are made by metal additive, powder-metallurgy or cast. By the time of the Paris Airshow, the Wallwork HIP Centre will have also attained NADCAP accreditation. Besides eliminating voids and imparting the required toughness and fatigue resistance, processing at the HIP Centre allows these components to achieve near-net-shape. This often saves aerospace customers further stages of manufacture to reduce production lead times and costs. Being able to provide a stand-alone HIP service or combine it with one or more of the Wallwork Group’s 117 heat treatment processes, is a compelling factor attracting European and international aerospace manufacturing customers. As one of Europe’s largest independent thermal treatment companies, Wallwork

Since the last International Paris Airshow, Wallwork Group, has significantly increased thermal treatment capacity across a range of processes, none more so than €24 million invested in their new HIP Centre featuring Quintus Technologies’ hot isostatic presses. This will be the focus of their stand G-321 in Hall 1. There have also been significant investments in additional plasma nitriding, gas nitriding, deep pit furnaces, a dedicated online customer service portal and much more. The technical team are keen to talk to aerospace manufacturers across Europe, and internationally, who want to easily and cost effectively treat their components. Wallwork opened their new hot isostatic pressing centre at the end of 2023 and a further Quintus HIP is due to start processing customer orders soon. As geopolitical shifts take shape, this provides a timely and much needed increase in European hot isostatic pressing capacity for aerospace manufacturing continuity.

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NWAA team

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Paul Bell Programme Manager

New Chair To be announced soon

Paula Gill CEO

M: 07749 489925 E: paula.gill@aerospace.co.uk

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Jacqui Cumming Business Development Executive

Nichola Burton Operations Manager, Membership, Marketing & Events Manager

Terrie Christie Executive Assistant

M : 07842 445835 E: terrie@aerospace.co.uk

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Natasha Thomas Marketing and Events Assistant

Emma Makin Finance Manager

T: 07530 097899 E: natasha.thomas@aerospace.co.uk

T: 07593 444977 E: emma.makin@aerospace.co.uk

@NWAerospace

plane talk summer 2025

In each issue of Plane Talk, we’ll be talking to one of the NWAA team members. Next up is Finance Manager, Emma Makin. Meet the Team

What’s your role at NWAA and what does a typical day look like for you? Finance Manager – Always start by catching up on emails then it’s the bank reconciliation. After that my calendar looks different everyday depending on where we are in the month. How did you start your career in [industry/field]? It started when I was 18, I applied for a basic admin role at what I thought was a local company, it turned out that I was working for ‘Liberty of London’ where I very quickly moved into Payroll and HR.

What’s your favourite way to unwind after a busy day at work? It’s the gym almost every evening during the week, the odd bike ride if the weather is good. What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone aspiring to be in your position? Be patient, stay focused and never stop wanting to learn. What’s your go-to productivity hack?

If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward What’s one thing you can’t live without in your workspace?

Two screens

How do you like to spend your weekends or free time? Watching the mighty Clarets playing football with the hubby, cycling and the gym If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why? South Pacific Islands, they look out of this world What’s one thing on your bucket list you’ve yet to accomplish?

A to do list – it’s essential!

What do you enjoy most about working at NWAA?

What’s the most challenging part of your job? Changing compliance and economic uncertainty. Who or what inspires you in your work? I think it must be my dad, he’s retired now but served 50 years with the same Aerospace company which is now Safran. What’s your favourite book, movie, or TV show and why? Movie has to be ‘The Sound of Music’ It’s a true story (tweaked slightly) and I love the Alps and Austria. If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why? To be able to fly, so I could fly over Ewood of course 😊 How do you stay motivated and inspired in your work? Focus and set achievable goals. There’s nothing better than ticking off tasks on my to do list. What’s your favourite quote or mantra?

My team, we are all awesome!

What’s a project or accomplishment you’re proud of at NWAA? There’s been so many since I took up this role just over 12 months ago. Taking advantage of the functions of the AI software we use saves so much time and of course it’s efficiency improves day by day. What’s your favourite thing about the [industry/field] you work in? It’s a constant learning curve. It’s fascinating. It’s inspiring to hear speakers from different organisations in the industry sharing their innovation and experiences. What skills are essential for your role? Numeracy, data analysis, critical thinking, communication, organisation, time management, attention to detail and lots of patience. What’s a fun fact about you that most people don’t know? I played field hockey until my mid 40’s at high level, equivalent to the ‘Championship’ in football.

Skiing in Japan, it looks amazing

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Building a Sustainable Future: ESG and Sustainability Workshop Series LinkedIn ( @North West Aerospace Alliance ) and X ( @NWAerospace ) pages for the latest upcoming events and networking opportunities. Save the date If you would like to register for any of our events, please contact membership@aerospace.co.uk for further details. Please regularly check our website www.aerospace.co.uk

Meet the board

New Chair To be announced soon

Paula Gill NWAA CEO

Anthony Hammond Divisional Managing Director (Joint) Hyde Aero Products Ltd

Wednesday 4th June 08:30am – 13:00pm

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NWAA & Aerospace Wales Member Event Tuesday 10th June 08:30am – 16:30pm

Lynne Gillen Export Manager Lancashire Department For International Trade

Ged O’Dwyer Manufacturing Sector Head – Series Programmes UK MBDA Missile Systems

Jeff Cheetham Managing Director Blue Sky Growth Solutions

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NWAA in Partnership with Oxley Group at Paris Airshow 2025

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Aerospace Innovator Bootcamp 10th July 2025

Jon Bridges Executive Director Velocity Composites

Richard Prosser Head of Manufacturing Strategy Air Sector

Beth Owen Head of Logistics & Transport Airbus

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Copy deadlines

Express News Copy deadline: June 19

Prof Melissa Conlon Commercial Director AMRC NW

Nicola Bardsley Managing Director Safran Nacelles Limited

Annette Weekes MBE Vice President & GM Senior Aerospace Weston

Please send all information to membership@aerospace.co.uk

Plane Talk Copy deadline for members wanting to share news in the next edition of Plane Talk

Autumn Copy deadline: August 4

Sara Underwood Business Improvement

Dion Williams Associate Dean for Enterprise

Please send content through as a word document, maximum 500 words. Please include a supporting JPEG image, two maximum, where relevant and a home page website address for a hyperlink.

& Lean Lead Rolls-Royce PLC

& Engagement Lancaster University

Please send all information to nwaa@freshfield.com

@NWAerospace

plane talk summer 2025

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