On Tuesday, the Managing Director of aerospace supply chain partner IPC Mouldings, Joanne Liddle, was awarded the prestigious Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) by HRH The Princess Royal, at a formal investiture ceremony held at Windsor Castle in recognition of her commitment and services to the aerospace sector in Northern Ireland.
Northern Ireland has long been recognised as a global centre of excellence in aerospace manufacturing, with a proud heritage of engineering innovation and advanced technologies. The sector remains a cornerstone of the regional economy, supporting thousands of highly skilled jobs, driving exports, and positioning Northern Ireland as a world leader in high-value manufacturing.
Through her leadership at IPC Mouldings, Joanne has played an important role in strengthening this reputation. Her strategic vision has supported the growth of precision engineering and advanced manufacturing capabilities that serve aerospace and other demanding sectors, reinforcing Northern Ireland’s standing on the international stage.
Congratulating Joanne on her MBE, Alan Henning, Chair of ADS NI and Director of Operations at Collins Aerospace, said: “Joanne’s MBE is extremely well deserved. She’s been an outstanding advocate for Northern Ireland’s aerospace sector and a valued voice on the ADS NI Council.
“Her leadership at IPC Mouldings, combined with her dedication to skills development and mentoring the next generation, exemplifies the quality and commitment that makes our industry world-leading. We’re proud to celebrate this recognition with her.”
Brendan McGuigan, Director of Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering at Invest NI added: “I am delighted that Joanne has been recognised for her work within the aerospace sector.
“IPC Mouldings is at the forefront of the industry supply chain, with its engineers manufacturing components for an estimated two million commercial aircraft seats right here in Northern Ireland. Joanne has helped IPC Mouldings to evolve, and the company is now recognised around the world for its products and expertise.”
Joanne’s MBE also recognises her extensive contribution beyond IPC Mouldings. She serves as a Board Member of AEL, a social enterprise dedicated to creating meaningful employment opportunities. As a Steering Group Member of the Manufacturing Task Force (MTF) at Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Joanne helps to shape regional industrial strategy and growth.
In addition, she is also a Member of the ADS NI Council, supporting the advancement of the aerospace, space and security sectors, and a Member of the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry Council, contributing to the wider business voice of the region.
Commenting on Joanne’s MBE, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council Mayor Jackson Minford said: “Joanne is very well deserving of her MBE. She has been a great advocate for the manufacturing industry in Northern Ireland and, in particular, a strong supporter of the Mid and East Antrim area.
“Through Joanne, IPC Mouldings is involved in STEM activities, offering visits to local schools, in addition to placements, intern opportunities and apprenticeship programmes. The company is also part of the Council’s Manufacturing Task Force (MTF) with Joanne at the fore of ensuring the development of initiatives that support our local industry.”
Passionate about developing future talent, Joanne actively mentors young people through Sisters IN, encouraging more young women to consider careers in manufacturing, engineering and leadership. Her commitment to inclusivity and skills development continues to make a tangible difference across the sector.
In recognition of her outstanding contribution to industry, Joanne was also inducted into the Manufacturing NI Hall of Fame in 2025 — a further testament to her impact and influence within UK manufacturing.
Speaking after the ceremony at Windsor Castle, Joanne said: “It is an incredible honour to receive an MBE. I am proud to represent Northern Ireland’s manufacturing and aerospace community. This recognition belongs to the talented teams I work alongside every day and to the wider industry that continues to innovate and compete globally.”
Colleagues and industry partners have praised Joanne’s collaborative leadership style, her focus on sustainable growth, and her determination to ensure that manufacturing remains a vibrant and attractive career path for future generations.
All images credited to IPC Mouldings
