01174 621101
The West of England Aerospace Forum (WEAF) is delighted to announce the first-ever Making a Difference (M.A.D.) industry awards, which will be presented at the prestigious Annual Gala Dinner on Thursday, 28th November 2024. This highly anticipated event, taking place at the stunning Bristol Harbour Hotel, promises to be an evening of celebration, recognition, and networking.
A Significant Event in the Aerospace Industry Calendar
This year’s Gala Dinner is set to be a landmark occasion, bringing together key players from across the aerospace sector. Attendees will have a fantastic opportunity to connect with industry leaders, making it an unmissable event for professionals dedicated to advancing aerospace innovation and excellence.
Introducing the M.A.D. Awards
One of the highlights of the evening will be the presentation of the Making a Difference (M.A.D.) awards. These awards are very people focussed and created to honour the outstanding achievements and contributions of individuals and teams who have made a significant impact within the industry. Nominations are now open and Free to Enter, with submissions already coming in. WEAF encourages all members of the aerospace community to participate and nominate their colleagues.
M.A.D Award Categories
With something for everyone, the WEAF M.A.D award categories are:
- Innovative Team Award in Design, Process, or Systems open to Prime/Teir 1
- Innovative Team Award in Design, Process, or Systems open to SMEs
- The Unsung Hero Award (open to all)
- Sustainability Award (open to SMEs)
- Celebrating Leadership Award (open to all)
Plus, a special award presented by the WEAF team.
Closing date of M.A.D awards – 18th October 24.
A Distinguished Panel of Judges
WEAF is privileged to have assembled a distinguished panel of judges, featuring industry leaders from various sectors of aerospace and academia, including:
- Andrew Thompson Associate of RKC Management
- Professor Sir Iain Gray, Director of Theme (Aerospace) at Cranfield University
- Harriet Wollerton ADS Services Director
- Ian Davies, Business Development Consultant at WEAF
- Bethany Hall, Senior Systems Integration Engineer at GKN Aerospace
- Jim Godman UK National Executive Support at the Safran Group
- Austin Chick, Head of Business Strategy, Leonardo Helicopters /Head of the iAero Innovation Centre
These judges bring vast knowledge and experience, ensuring that the M.A.D. awards will highlight truly exceptional contributions to the industry.
Sponsorship and Support
WEAF is proud to have the backing of prominent Gala Dinner sponsors who share our commitment to industry excellence:
Beagle Aircraft, the headline sponsor, is supporting the Waterlily Project*, a cause close to the heart of the team at Beagle. A percentage of Gala Dinner ticket sales will be donated to this worthy cause.
Sandler Training, our Gold Sponsor, emphasising their dedication to professional development and leadership within aerospace.
SKF UK, our Silver Sponsor, further demonstrates their support for the aerospace sector.
Why Attend?
The WEAF Annual Gala Dinner is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of innovation, leadership, and the future of aerospace.
By attending, you will enjoy:
- A prime opportunity to network with industry leaders and decision-makers.
- A platform to celebrate the achievements of industry professionals.
- An evening of fine dining and inspiration at the fabulous Bristol Harbour Hotel.
For more information and to book your ticket, please visit the WEAF website: WEAF Annual Gala Dinner
About WEAF
The West of England Aerospace Forum (WEAF) is the leading aerospace and advanced manufacturing/engineering trade association, committed to supporting the growth and success of the industry. Through networking, collaboration, and innovation, WEAF plays a key role in driving the future of aerospace in the UK.
Of last year’s annual gala dinner Phill Mason, Business Development Director of Kingfield Electronics Limited said:
“It was an absolute pleasure attending the WEAF gala dinner. The event was impeccably organised, showcasing the best of what our industry has to offer. The atmosphere was vibrant, the networking opportunities were invaluable, and the speakers were truly inspiring. I found the event not only enjoyable but also incredibly beneficial for fostering new connections and insights in our field. Further to this, as a member of the WEAF board I give 10 out of 10 to the team for orchestrating such a fantastic evening”.
The event promises to be more than just a celebration; it’s an opportunity for the industry to unite and recognise the extraordinary contributions of those who are driving innovation and excellence in aerospace. The inaugural Making a Difference awards will shine a spotlight on the remarkable achievements within the aerospace community. It’s a chance to not only network with peers and industry leaders but also to honour the individuals and organisations that are truly making a difference.
The fabulous event is open to all in the industry and not limited to the WEAF membership. Join in with the 2024 Annual Gala Dinner to celebrate those who are truly making a difference in the aerospace industry.
* The Water Lily Project is a Christian charity that is passionate about supporting and empowering women across Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole areas and helping them back to independent living. For more information on the Waterlily project please visit:
https://waterlilyproject.org.uk
For media enquiries, or for information regarding sponsorship of the M.A.D awards, please contact: events@weaf.co.uk
