Derbyshire-based Acres Engineering has joined calls for more women to pursue careers in manufacturing and engineering, echoing the message of this week’s Ada Lovelace Day event at the Houses of Parliament, which highlighted the vital role women play in shaping the sector’s future.
Representatives Alison Parker and Helen Rose attended a breakfast reception at Westminster, hosted by Jodie Gosling MP for Nuneaton on behalf of the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) and Lloyds Banking Group.
The event brought together female role models, business leaders and policymakers to discuss how the UK can reach the “35 by 35” ambition – 35% of manufacturing roles held by women by 2035.
Acres Engineering is already taking practical steps to help achieve that goal through its People First Pledge – a long-term commitment to creating opportunities, building skills and supporting social mobility in engineering.
The pledge underpins the company’s investment in apprenticeships, internships and local school engagement to inspire future engineers from all backgrounds.
Alison Parker, co-owner at Acres Engineering, said: “Representation matters – in leadership, in the workforce and in the stories we tell about industry. Manufacturing can only thrive if it reflects the diversity of the communities it serves. We’re proud to add our voice to the call for more women to see engineering as a place where they can belong and build long-term careers.”
She added: “Events like Ada Lovelace Day are powerful reminders that inclusion isn’t just about fairness – it’s about securing the future of British manufacturing. As a Derbyshire SME, we want to show that you don’t have to be a global corporation to make a difference.”
Acres also used the Westminster event to encourage other organisations to sign the Armed Forces Covenant. The company proudly holds the Gold Award under the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, demonstrating its wider commitment to inclusivity, opportunity and social value across the engineering community.
