July-August 2021

NEWS New analysis from EngineeringUK has shown 14.5% of those working in engineering are female, which is an increase from 12% as reported in 2018. The latest data is taken from the Labour Force Survey Q3 2020 shows that the proportion of women working in engineering has increased over time both proportionally and in absolute numbers, outpacing the rate seen in the wider workforce. Further detailed analysis from EngineeringUK will be included in research due for publication in autumn 2021. However, early analysis reveals that the number of women working in engineering occupations has risen from 721,586 in Q2 of 2016 to 906,785 in Q2 of 2020. This represents a 25.7% increase in women in engineering occupations and compares to a 4.6% rise in the number of women in the overall workforce within that same period. Altogether, 14.5% of those working in engineering occupations in Q3 of 2020 were women. Encouraging Dr Hilary Leevers, chief executive of EngineeringUK, says: “It’s encouraging to see nearly 200,000 more women working in engineering over the last 4 years – something for us to celebrate on International Women in Engineering Day. Nevertheless, the fact that women represent only 14.5% of those working in engineering is a serious concern. “Women make up half the population, but we draw on such a small proportion of their talent – we, and the engineering sector as a whole, need to work harder to drive change. “Engineering is a varied and stimulating career of enormous societal value. We need to ensure that it’s a career choice that’s accessible and attractive to the next generation of young people, for their own life chances and to create the diverse and insightful workforce needed for the UK to thrive.” New data suggests increase in number of women working in engineering 14 HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS July/August 2021 www.hpmag.co.uk R&G Fluid Power Group, a UK Fluid Power Solutions specialist serving a wide range of industries, has been named as one of the 50 fastest growing companies in the North West of England. The prestigious Ward Hadaway North West Fastest 50 Awards, in association with the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, celebrate growth, innovation, and the commercial achievements of North West businesses. Based on financial data filed with Companies House, the list ranks the 50 best performing privately-owned companies which have consistently increased turnover whilst remaining profitable. R&G Fluid Power Group was ranked third following successful growth through multiple acquisitions and substantial infrastructure investment across the group of companies. Since 2017, R&G Fluid Power Group has added carefully selected businesses to the group. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, R&G has been able to expand through acquisition – adding Scunthorpe based FluidAir Power Ltd and Hull based Norman Walker (Machinery) Ltd. A further key factor in the group’s growth has been the successful trading and collaboration on joint projects between group companies. The Fastest 50 list is being published as usual after a decision by the organisers to continue to celebrate these successes despite the impact of the pandemic, in an attempt to continue to motivate and inspire those operating in the North West business community. Tremendous achievements Paul Johnson, executive partner of Ward Hadaway’s Manchester Office, says: “Congratulations to R&G Fluid Power Group and every company in the Ward Hadaway North West Fastest 50 for 2021 for their tremendous achievements. “This year’s Fastest 50 list, as always, boasts many management teams with an unwavering passion to succeed who have created high growth, profitable businesses. It’s this spirit, and the business success that it creates, that we are delighted to celebrate, particularly this year during such a challenging time for businesses.” Chris Ford, managing director of the R&G Fluid Power Group, adds: “It is fantastic to be ranked third in the Ward Hadaway 2021 North West Fastest 50 List. This is brilliant recognition for our teams in all our businesses who are driven and who work exceptionally hard to grow the R&G Fluid Power Group. “Thank you to everyone who plays their part in our continued success and congratulations to the other companies on the list, we are thrilled to be part of the business community driving success in the North West.” R&G Fluid Power Group ranks third in Ward Hadaway North West Fastest 50 for 2021