Following the success of last year’s awards, WEAF is aiming for more nominations and more recognition for South West businesses. With new award categories and a new venue, WEAF hopes to see this event go from strength to strength.

The awards are free to enter and are open to everyone working in the industry. The six award categories are:

1. Best Engineer Award – for all engineers in the industry;


2. Lifetime Achievement Award - new for 2018, for a venerable contributor to the industry, perhaps still in work or retired;


3. Best Young Aerospace Entrant – for the best apprentice or newly graduated;


4. Best Small Company Contribution – new for 2018, celebrating the impact on the sector of a small or medium seized company, or one of its employees;


5. ‘Going the Extra Mile Award’ – for excellent customer service;


6. Aerospace Media Award – for the best short film celebrating the industry.

The winners will be selected by an independent panel of recognised experts from across the region’s aerospace and defence industry.

The awards evening will be held under the wings of Concorde at Aerospace Bristol on 27 June 2018, where the cream of the South West aerospace sector will join forces to honour the winners.

Simon Young, chief executive of WEAF, said: “Last year the awards demonstrated that the South West has the people and companies to remain at the forefront of the aerospace and defence industries, not just in the UK but globally. I’d encourage anyone involved in the sector to apply – let’s not hide our talents under a bushel.

“After last year’s success, we are looking forward to seeing and celebrating the fantastic engineering and business expertise in the region. Despite uncertainty in the macro-economy, the South West continues to lead the way in aerospace engineering and manufacturing, all thanks to the talent and dedication of its companies and their staff.

“These awards are a celebration and recognition of their efforts throughout the year that are enabling the South West aerospace industry to grow. There are no limits to the number of nominations so good luck to everyone!”

Places are also still available for the upcoming WEAF annual conference on the 28th of February at Ashton Gate, Bristol. Anyone interested should visit www.weaf.co.uk/events/2018-weaf-annual-conference-exhibition-2

www.weaf.co.uk