EDITORIAL ROUNDUP

Made Smarter launches peer network

Made Smarter North West has launched a new peer-to-peer network that aims to
accelerate digital adoption among SME manufacturers. The Digital Champions Network
brings together businesses that have engaged with Made Smarter’s adoption programme,
including graduates of its Leading Digital Transformation and Leading Change for Digital
Champions programmes.
The initiative will connect employees actively engaged in digitalisation, from the top floor to
the shop floor, at different stages of technology adoption. In-person and online events will
take place throughout the year that enable participants to share learning and experiences,
thus forging long-lasting connections.
More information www.madesmarter.uk

GE Aerospace signs net-zero charter

GE Aerospace has signed the Defence Aviation Net Zero Charter set out by the UK’s Ministry
of Defence (MOD). Scott Keating, regional GM – sales & business development for European
defence and systems at GE Aerospace, says: “This marks a significant step forward in our
efforts to collaborate and share best practices with our partners. It will help ensure that
defence aviation positively contributes to the UK Government’s net-zero ambitions and the
Royal Air Force’s aspirational goal to achieve net zero by 2040.”  
Shaun Harris, director support and chief engineer at the Royal Air Force, adds: “Defence
aviation must be able to retain its ability to operate globally, to defend the UK and its allies
in a changing climatic environment, while also significantly reducing our own carbon
emissions.” 
More information www.geaerospace.com

70 new jobs in Galway

Fastening solutions specialist PennEngineering is expanding its operations in Galway, a move that will create 70 new jobs over the next five years. The €14m expansion project, which involves the construction of a new building, includes a state-of-the-art technology and training centre, testing laboratories and a customer experience centre. The new jobs will span a variety of roles that include manufacturing, engineering, training and more.

PennEngineering’s expansion project has support from the Irish Government through IDA Ireland. Estimates suggest the work will be complete by January 2025.

More information www.pemnet.com/eu/

Bowers promotes Ryan Kingswell

Bowers Group has appointed Ryan Kingswell as the company’s new director of sales, marketing and service. In his new role, Kingswell will unify the sales, marketing and service teams at Bowers – an integration that will enhance service by centring on the needs of customers. He will also explore new markets and opportunities for upcoming products. Most recently, Kingswell served as the company’s UK and Ireland sales manager, focusing on driving sales growth and building strong relationships with customers and colleagues. His experience and understanding of the business have prepared him well for his new role.

More information www.bowersgroup.co.uk

Schuler under new management

Martin Drasch will become the new CEO of press manufacturer Schuler when he takes up his new position on 1 October 2024. Since 2018, the 49-year-old has been CEO of multinational engineering company Manz AG, which employs around 1400 people. Drasch built up the Mobility & Battery Solutions division there and initiated a co-operation with companies such as Dürr and Grob on the topic of a ‘turnkey battery factory’. The mechanical engineering graduate previously worked as chief operating officer (COO) at Manz and in various management positions at Eisenmann.

More information www.schulergroup.com