The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority’s Technology and Innovation Director, Melanie Brownridge, has scooped a prestigious award at the Women in Nuclear Conference in London.
The Women in Nuclear (WiN) Annual Awards recognises those who have gone above and beyond to promote gender balance and diversity across the nuclear sector.
Inspiring role model Prof Melanie Brownridge, won the award for Champion of the Year – which recognises someone who influences their organisation, and the wider industry, to address gender balance.
Melanie, from Cockermouth, who works at the NDA’s offices at Westlakes Science and Technology Park, said: “I’m very humbled to have been nominated by colleagues and to have won this award. It was amazing to receive feedback from colleagues on how the way I work with others has a positive impact.
“I love my job and I’m proud of what I’ve achieved, always by including and working with amazing people with diverse perspectives. I am passionate about flexible working and enabling people to be the best they can be at work and at home – but there is no one size fits all – and as individuals it’s important we recognise and respect that.”
Hugo Herrera, Business Analyst for the NDA, also based at Westlakes, was a finalist in the Ally of the Year category.
Speaking at the annual WiN conference, David Peattie, NDA Chief Executive and new patron of WiN UK, said it was an honour to attend the event and hear so many inspiring stories.
“I would like to congratulate all of the winners and those who were nominated for an award. It is hugely important that we recognise those who go the extra mile to improve diversity.”
“Their passion and determination to ensure we as an industry are making progress really helps the sector attract the right people with the right skills.”
Mr Peattie added: “WiN’s mission to improve the representation of women in leadership not only provides us with skills for the future, but also inspires the next generation of nuclear workers. Well done Melanie, a very well deserved award for your achievements.”
The awards were held during the annual WiN conference in Westminster which this year focused on inclusion and encouraging people to have a voice.
