Institution news
This recognition highlights the impact they have made in the UK’s industrial, defence and rail sectors. Their dedication, not only to their professions but also as tireless advocates for engineering, has earned them this royal recognition.
Matt Garside, newly elected President of IMechE, praised the triple awards:
“Collectively as an Institution we are incredibly proud that the King has honoured Peter, Giles and Bridget for their exceptional contributions to engineering. Their drive, ambition and dedication is reflected in both their careers and unwavering support for the Institution as well as the wider engineering profession. They possess the qualities that make engineering one of the most trusted professions in our ever-changing world.”
Peter Flinn, who was elected as IMechE’s 136th President in 2021, has had a career marked by innovation and influence. Known for his work bridging industry, government, and academia, Peter played a key role in commercialising new manufacturing technologies. He was instrumental in launching the Manufacturing Technology Centre in Coventry and later took on pivotal roles at the High Value Manufacturing Catapult and the Aerospace Technology Institute, helping to drive forward the UK’s advanced manufacturing capabilities.
Giles Hartill, currently Chief Technologist at AWE Nuclear Security Technologies, has made his mark in the defence sector. Since joining the industry in 2003, Giles has steered cutting-edge research and development, helping to shape the future of UK nuclear security. As a Past President of IMechE in 2023, he has championed engineering excellence and inspired future generations of engineers.
Bridget has had a distinguished career in the rail industry and is currently a Principal Infrastructure Engineer at the Rail Safety and Standards Board. In addition to being elected to the Trustee Board in 2021, Bridget has served as Chair of the Railway Division and is actively involved in the Railway Challenge competition for young engineers.
Commenting on her award, Bridget said:
“I am delighted to have been awarded this honour. The rail industry is a great place to work, and I would like to recognise the support and encouragement given to me by a large number of colleagues over the years. The IMechE Railway Challenge is a superb opportunity for young engineers to develop their skills in a supportive environment, and I thoroughly enjoy being involved.”
On hearing of the honour, Giles said:
“I always wanted to make a difference in whatever I committed myself to, and I have been incredibly fortunate to do so with the help of so many amazing people who have supported me throughout my life-long learning journey in engineering—both at the Atomic Weapons Establishment and more broadly with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers.
I am incredibly thankful to the friends and colleagues who nominated me, and I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition from the King.”
Peter commented:
“I always wanted to be an engineer and have worked in the profession for well over fifty years. I am extremely pleased to have received this recognition from the King which makes it all worthwhile. Thank you to those who put me forward.”
MBE stands for Member of the Order of the British Empire. It is an honour bestowed upon individuals who have made significant contributions or achievements, particularly within their communities.