AMPTHILL, BEDFORDSHIRE, 22 NOVEMBER 2017 – Three employees at Bedfordshire technology business Lockheed Martin UK have been named in a national report as being among the country’s most influential and inspiring people in manufacturing.

Mark Lawson, Chris Diamond and Rob Naylor all work at the company’s Ampthill site and were honoured in The Manufacturer Top 100 report, launched last week at an exclusive ceremony in Liverpool.

The Top 100 project publicly identifies dynamic leaders and innovators from all over the country, with hundreds of nominations received and judged by an expert panel.

Of the 100 included in the report, 20 are named as exemplars – an honour that was given to environmental test engineer Chris Diamond. Chris was recognised for his drive to push his personal and professional development and his work as an ambassador and mentor for other apprentices.

Chris said: “I’m passionate about UK manufacturing and promoting careers in the industry. It’s critical that the UK aims to be at the forefront of not just technological developments but new means of production and design.

“We need to inspire more young people to engage with science, technology, engineering and maths – they’re the most exciting and dynamic subjects to be involved in, with very clear real-world applications.

“I’m lucky that I get to experience it first-hand at Lockheed Martin and I’m proud that I’m able to pass my enthusiasm on to a new generation. To have that recognised as part of this national award is a great honour.”

Chris was joined on the list by Ampthill colleagues Mark Lawson and Rob Naylor. Mark, head of engineering technical facilities at the site, was recognised as an inspiring leader for his commitment to employee engagement and his support of apprenticeships and work with Bedford College; and CNC machinist Rob was commended for his skills as a technician producing highly complex parts, and his expertise in additive manufacturing and weld robotics projects.

Nick Hussey, CEO, Hennik Group – publishers of The Manufacturer – said: “Projects like The Manufacturer Top 100 play an absolutely vital role, serving to demonstrate the reality of what the highly diverse, well-paid careers available in industry actually look like. The Top 100 list features stories of inspiration, determination, passion and achievement and showcases why it is truly exciting to be manufacturing in Britain.”