NEPIC’s 20th Industry Awards spotlight talent across the process sector

NEPIC’s 20th Industry Awards spotlight talent across the process sector (Image : Supplied)

More than 300 industry leaders attended NEPIC’s 20th Annual Industry Awards hosted at Hardwick Hall Hotel. The event celebrated the outstanding achievements of the companies and individuals who make up the processing industries in the North East of England. 

Joanne Smith, NEPIC's CEO, said: “Tonight is a celebration of the people who make this cluster exceptional, the apprentices, engineers, scientists, operators and leaders who keep this region moving forward.” 

The evening’s keynote speaker, Andrea Pearson of FUJIFILM Biotechnologies and a former Young Achiever Award winner in 2014, reflected on the lasting impact the honour has had on her career. Andrea said the recognition played a key role in her development, adding: “Three things, very personally: it increased my confidence, strengthened my credibility and widened my network.”  

The winners for the 2026 Apprentice Awards, sponsored by Alpek, were Joseph Jackson of Mitsubishi Chemical, Omar Gother of Alpek Polyester UK Ltd and Milly McGhee of Durata UK Ltd. 

In the Young Achiever category, sponsored by EDF Energy, Charlotte Murray of px Limited, Mitchell Moor of ConocoPhillips, Bryony Larsen of Sembcorp Energy UK and Michael Riseborough of Sembcorp UK were all recognised. 

The Outstanding Contribution Award, sponsored by SABIC, was given to Stephen Beedle of TÜV Rheinland Group. Stephen has built a distinguished 35-year career within the process industries. Upon receiving his award, Stephen said: “It was a bit of a surprise, I wasn’t expecting it. It feels nice to win an award, but it’s not why I do the work; I do it because I want to make a difference!” 

Pennyman Primary Academy was awarded the Primary School Environmental Award, sponsored by NZT Power. With their award prize money, the school plans to establish a pupil-led ‘Green Team’ to launch two interconnected projects: enhancing school-wide recycling efforts and creating a dedicated outdoor wildlife learning area. 

This year’s Apprentice Employer Award, sponsored by Wolviston Management Services Ltd, went to CF Fertilisers Ltd. 

Sembcorp Industries Ltd were awarded the Communities and Reputation Award, sponsored by Costain Group PLC.

The Innovation Award, sponsored by px Group, was given to Assentech Sales Limited. 

The final award of the evening, the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Award, sponsored by TeesREP (MGT Teesside), was awarded to EDF Energy – Hartlepool Power Station.