Thirteen Yorkshire and Humber manufacturing leaders have been recognised in Make UK's new 130 Honours, celebrating people shaping the future of UK manufacturing.

The Yorkshire and Humber honourees showcase the region's manufacturing strength, spanning global engineering, advanced materials, research and specialist production.

Among those recognised is Chris Rea CBE, Founder and Managing Director of Rotherham-based AES Engineering, for his leadership in engineering, sustainability and net zero. Through his Betterworld Solutions initiative, Rea has also championed the role businesses can play in accelerating progress towards net zero.

Paul Stockhill, Managing Director of Doncaster-based precision engineering company Agemaspark, is recognised for his engineering leadership and commitment to developing the next generation of manufacturing talent. Alongside his role at Agemaspark, he supports young people through his work with Doncaster University Technical College.

Amanda McLaren DL, Managing Director of Bradford-based AW Hainsworth, is recognised for combining the heritage of one of Britain's longstanding textile manufacturers with investment in modernisation, people and sustainability. Her leadership has helped the business embrace digital and automation technologies while continuing to develop its workforce.

Andy Richardson, CEO of Sheffield-based Special Melted Products, is recognised for driving growth and investment at a specialist manufacturer producing high-integrity steels and nickel-based superalloys for critical industries including aerospace, civil nuclear and energy.

Harriet Bean, Senior Process Chemist and Quality Coordinator at BASF in Bradford, is recognised for her work developing more sustainable, lower-hazard polymer processes, while also championing women in STEM and engineering apprenticeships.

The initiative was launched on National Manufacturing Day, in partnership with Barclays, to mark Make UK’s 130th anniversary by recognising 130 people across England and Wales whose leadership, expertise, innovation and commitment are helping to shape the future of UK manufacturing.

Their stories come at a time when the sector continues to face difficult trading conditions, but manufacturers remain resilient and optimistic about the future. Barclays’ latest Business Prosperity Index found that 94% of manufacturers are confident about the future prosperity of their business over the next 12 months.

However, this confidence must be matched by action to tackle the skills gaps that could hold back businesses’ ability to invest, innovate and grow. Make UK research shows that 99% of manufacturers believe access to skills will shape their future growth plans, while half say skills shortages are their biggest barrier to growth.

With around 47,000 manufacturing vacancies still unfilled across the UK, according to ONS figures, and almost two-thirds of manufacturers planning major investments in digitalisation and AI technologies, attracting and developing the next generation of talent will be critical to the sector’s future.

Against this backdrop, National Manufacturing Day provides an opportunity to showcase the breadth of careers and opportunities available in modern manufacturing, inspiring young people, communities and future employees to consider a career in the industry.

Dawn Huntrod, Region Director – North of England at Make UK, said: "Yorkshire and the Humber has a proud manufacturing heritage and remains one of the UK's most important industrial regions. The people recognised through the 130 Honours demonstrate the innovation, expertise and leadership that continues to drive manufacturing forward across the region.

"National Manufacturing Day is about showcasing the opportunities available within modern manufacturing and inspiring the next generation of talent. Our 130 Honours initiative complements that by recognising the people whose skills and commitment are helping shape the future of the industry."

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds MP said: “Today is a chance to celebrate the people who make the things that make Britain great.

“A stronger manufacturing base means more good jobs in every part of the country, which is why our Industrial Strategy is backing our world-class manufacturers.

“I’d absolutely encourage young people, parents and teachers to visit a local manufacturer and see for themselves the rewarding opportunities available up and down the country.”

Tom Horton, National Head of Manufacturing, Transport & Logistics, Barclays, said:
“We are proud to partner with Make UK to support the 130 Honours initiative and to join them in celebrating some of the industry’s great leaders on National Manufacturing Day. Manufacturing is at the heart of the UK economy, powered by skilled people, innovative businesses and resilient supply chains that keep the country moving. Recognising the sector’s contribution is both important and well deserved.”

Yorkshire and Humber Honourees

Chris Rea OBE, Managing Director, AES Engineering (Rotherham)
Paul Stockhill, Managing Director, Agemaspark (Doncaster)
Amanda McLaren DL, Managing Director, AW Hainsworth (Pudsey)
Harriet Bean, Senior Process Chemist and Quality Coordinator, BASF (Bradford)
Matthew Barton, Managing Director, Bensons Panels (Normanton)
Louise O'Brien, Managing Director, Greyhound Box (Leeds)
John Cook, former CEO of Groupe Atlantic (Kingston-upon-Hull)
Rachel Lewis, Owner and CEO, IQ Engineers (Leeds)
Ben Wilson, Managing Director, MPM (Leeds)
Richard Paxman OBE, CEO, Paxman Coolers (Huddersfield)
Andy Richardson, CEO, Special Melted Products (Sheffield)
Jonathan Bray, Senior Sector Engagement Manager for Defence & Space, AMRC (Sheffield)
David Baggaley, Economic Development Programme Lead, Leeds City Council (Leeds)

More information and the full list of winners can be found here.