2024 Advanced Engineering keynote speakers announced

The six industry leaders – and 150+ other speakers – will share their expertise and insights on critical industry issues during talks across several different forums. The two-day show will take place at the NEC in Birmingham on 30–31 October 2024.

The first of this year’s keynote speakers, Brian Holliday, is a leading figure in industrial technology and digital manufacturing. As the head of Siemens Digital Industries for the UK and Ireland, he oversees advanced automation, industry software, systems integration, and R&D. He is an expert on productivity, digital manufacturing, and industrial strategy, often contributing to media discussions.

The next speaker Matthew Atkinson, lead research engineer at Jaguar Land Rover, is an expert in automotive engineering, specialising in replacing metallic structures with injection moulded composites. His work focusses on interior mechanical commodities like cockpit, seating, and loadspace features and his innovative approach has earned him multiple patents, including for the Range Rover 18MY Executive Seating.

Next, Shaun Harris CBE is currently director of support and chief engineer at the Royal Air Force. With a distinguished 37-year career in the RAF, Shaun has held numerous leadership roles. His extensive experience spans engineering, logistics, and information warfare. Shaun has served around the world, from the UK and USA to Afghanistan and Iraq.

Also set to speak are Solange Baena, UK lead for the aviation environmental roadmap at Airbus, and Leonie Moffat, laser radar sales account manager at Nikon. Last but most certainly not least is Stefan Lawrenson, senior polymer chemist at Scott Bader, who specialises in sustainable technology and polymer chemistry. His research focusses on enhancing nanoparticles and synthesising eco-friendly materials.

“This year's speaker lineup brings together some of the brightest minds in the industry,” said Alison Willis, CEO of the show’s organiser, Easyfairs UK & Global. “Their diverse expertise will provide deep insights into pressing issues like Industry 4.0, supply chain management and sustainability.

“This lineup highlights the spirit of innovation that Advanced Engineering is all about, and our commitment to fostering knowledge exchange within the engineering community,” concluded Willis. “I’m sure the knowledge and inspiration they'll bring to the event will be of value to all visitors.”

Advanced Engineering brings together industry leaders and professionals to explore the latest innovations across multiple sectors, including aerospace, automotive, defence and security, marine, and more. Attendees can expect presentations on a wide range of topics, from digitally enabled supply chains to advanced propulsion technologies. The full speaker programme will be announced soon.