New Talent Inspiration Programme of the Year 2026

This award recognises a programme that has used innovative or different means to successfully attract new talent into the engineering and manufacturing sector.

Winner: Babcock PSO Programme 

Babcock PSO Programme is a bold initiative creating accessible entry routes into engineering for people from diverse backgrounds. Designed to address urgent workforce needs while widening opportunity, it combines inclusive hiring, targeted training and partner collaboration. The programme has strengthened resilience, opened long-term career pathways and influenced recruitment practice across the sector.