The Managing Director of IPC Mouldings has officially been recognised for her commitment and services to the aerospace sector in Northern Ireland.

Joanne Liddle received an MBE during a formal investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle on Tuesday, March 10.

It comes after she was named on the 2026 King’s New Year Honours list.

Through her leadership at IPC Mouldings, the Larne woman has played an important role in strengthening Northern Ireland’s reputation as as a global centre of excellence in aerospace manufacturing, with a proud heritage of engineering innovation and advanced technologies.

Managing Director of aerospace supply chain partner IPC Mouldings, Joanne Liddle, has been awarded the prestigious Member of the Order of the British Empire by HRH The Princess Royal. Photo: supplied

placeholder image — Managing Director of aerospace supply chain partner IPC Mouldings, Joanne Liddle, has been awarded the prestigious Member of the Order of the British Empire by HRH The Princess Royal. Photo: supplied

Congratulating Joanne on her MBE, Alan Henning, Chair of ADS NI and Director of Operations at Collins Aerospace, said: "Joanne's MBE is extremely well deserved. She's been an outstanding advocate for Northern Ireland's aerospace sector and a valued voice on the ADS NI Council.

"Her leadership at IPC Mouldings, combined with her dedication to skills development and mentoring the next generation, exemplifies the quality and commitment that makes our industry world-leading. We're proud to celebrate this recognition with her.”

Brendan McGuigan, Director of Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering at Invest NI added: “I am delighted that Joanne has been recognised for her work within the aerospace sector. IPC Mouldings is at the forefront of the industry supply chain, with its engineers manufacturing components for an estimated two million commercial aircraft seats right here in Northern Ireland. Joanne has helped IPC Mouldings to evolve, and the company is now recognised around the world for its products and expertise.”

Joanne’s MBE also recognises her extensive contribution beyond IPC Mouldings. She serves as a Board Member of AEL, a social enterprise dedicated to creating meaningful employment opportunities.

Support for local industry

As a Steering Group Member of the Manufacturing Task Force (MTF) at Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, she also helps to shape regional industrial strategy and growth. In addition, she is also a Member of the ADS NI Council, supporting the advancement of the aerospace, space and security sectors, and a Member of the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry Council, contributing to the wider business voice of the region.

Commenting on Joanne’s MBE, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council Mayor Jackson Minford said: “Through Joanne, IPC Mouldings is involved in STEM activities, offering visits to local schools, in addition to placements, intern opportunities and apprenticeship programmes. The company is also part of the Council’s Manufacturing Task Force (MTF) with Joanne at the fore of ensuring the development of initiatives that support our local industry.”

Passionate about developing future talent, Joanne actively mentors young people through Sisters IN, encouraging more young women to consider careers in manufacturing, engineering and leadership.

In recognition of her outstanding contribution to industry, Joanne was also inducted into the Manufacturing NI Hall of Fame in 2025.

Speaking after the ceremony at Windsor Castle, she said: “It is an incredible honour to receive an MBE. I am proud to represent Northern Ireland’s manufacturing and aerospace community. This recognition belongs to the talented teams I work alongside every day and to the wider industry that continues to innovate and compete globally.”