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Weighty answers for payloads
Lighter connectors contribute to reduced overall system mass, which is particularly important in weight-sensitive applications such as aircraft, satellites and drones, explains John Brunt. Reducing the weight of connectors and cables in applications such as aerospace, electric vehicles (EVs) and space systems is crucial for enhancing performance, fuel efficiency and overall system reliability. Connectors are generally heavier than other components ...
Remove the weakest link: fibre optic connectors
Thomas Mittermeier makes the case for a rethink of connector design using expanded beam technology. Under the umbrella of C4ISR (command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance) the development of sensors in the area of military aircraft is accelerating. The time between sensing and response, in particular, is critical. Whether radar or lidar applications, hyper- and multi-spectral imaging or ...
Innovator of the Year
Winner – Despina Moschou Senior lecturer, University of Bath Dr Moschou has pioneered a major paradigm shift in the electronics manufacturing industry, transforming PCBs into biomedical microsystems, producing the fastest Covid-19 test in the world. Despina’s journey is one of remarkable innovation and entrepreneurship, commented the judges. With 48 published articles, eight patents and projects such as the fastest Covid-19 ...
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Programme of the Year Award
Winner – Academy Achievers The #BeMeDigitalinclusion programme by Academy Achievers empowers under-represented women and girls in STEM and AI. It addresses the digital skills gap, promotes equity, diversity and social mobility through mentorship, technical training and impactful campaigns, and fosters inclusive opportunities for marginalised communities. The judges were impressed by Academy Achievers’ bold, impactful initiative and measurable success. They were ...
Technical Excellence Award
Winner – Fang Tuurnala Senior director of MEMS, SiTime, Finland Fang has built SiTime Finland into the premier facility of its kind in Finland. The judges noted that Fang has demonstrated exceptional leadership in driving forward highly innovative MEMs technology, setting a new benchmark for excellence in the field, adding that the work represents a significant advancement with strong potential ...
Electronics Engineer of the Year
Winner – Rachel Watkins Principal engineer, Vishay Newport Rachel started working for the company in 1995 as an operator and joined the process team in 2004 when she was appointed as technician, rising to process engineer in 2010. She used her experience in dry etch to introduce the 90M trench process at Newport on a completely different toolset than the ...
Woman of the Year – Design Engineer
Winner – Maria Chizalli COO Sfera Labs and HYSCO Maria is an inspirational design engineer and entrepreneur, celebrated for creating a groundbreaking home automation product and founding a thriving organisation. As COO she is recognised as a leader in the tech sector and continues to break barriers and inspire the next generation.
Woman of the Year
Winner – Mateja Lampe Rupnik CEO, Red Pitaya As CEO Marta leads Red Pitaya in delivering open-source tools that empower engineers, researchers and students worldwide, and fosters innovation, collaboration and accessibility to impact industries, academia and underserved regions. Our judges recognised Mateja as a strong leader and outstanding role model. They applauded her resilience in overcoming challenges and her unwavering ...
Unsung Hero in a Leadership Role
Winner – Elizabeth Smithies Senior quality lab manager, Nexperia Elizabeth accepted the opportunity to step up to senior quality manager in a male-dominated semiconductor industry. She led a culture change in her team while retaining talent and expertise, increasing the number of women by 200%. She continues to work across the business with future leaders, championing individuals. The judges felt ...