We are delighted to announce the winners of the 2024 Cranfield Manufacturing and Materials Alumni Awards.
These awards recognise the exceptional achievements of our manufacturing and materials alumni while showcasing the global impact of Cranfield University.
Meet the 2024 Distinguished Manufacturing and Materials Alumni Award Winner
Dr Simon Bourne (PhD in the School of Mechanical Engineering 2000)
Chief Technology Officer at ITM Power
With over 20 years of experience, Simon’s career has been marked by his deep knowledge of ultrasonic testing and his unwavering commitment to innovation. Since joining ITM Power in 2002 as a Research Manager, Simon’s impact has been profound. His leadership in research and development, as well as in product and sales functions, has been instrumental in shaping the company’s core technology. His efforts culminated in the successful realisation of ITM’s electrolyser platform, a breakthrough in the hydrogen energy sector.
Simon’s outstanding contributions include the delivery of two flagship projects: the world’s first PEM Power-to-Gas system in 2013 and Europe’s largest PEM electrolyser at Shell’s Energy and Chemicals Park in Wesseling, Germany. These pioneering projects underscore his forward-thinking approach and his dedication to the global energy transition.
Before joining ITM, Simon honed his technical expertise as a Project Engineer at Sonatest and as a researcher at the Ministry of Defence. His extensive knowledge and leadership in sustainable technologies have established him as an influential figure in clean energy and a speaker at global conferences.
Simon has played a pivotal role in advancing sustainable energy solutions through the design and manufacturing of cutting-edge electrolysers. His visionary work continues to shape the future of clean energy, setting new benchmarks for innovation and sustainability.
Meet the 2024 Excellence in Achievement Award for Recent Manufacturing and Materials Graduates Winner
Leith Chouaieb (MSc Aerospace Manufacturing 2018)
Business Integration Manager in Airbus UK’s Supply Chain Department
Leith has driven digital transformation initiatives, leading a team to deploy cybersecurity activities across Airbus UK’s Broughton plant. He has managed a complex project across programmes (A330, A320 and A350) and departments (Manufacturing Engineering, Information Management, Industrial Maintenance). Leith also works to break down silos within Airbus UK, supporting a workforce of 350 people across two major plants. His scope continues to grow as he takes on additional responsibilities, including acting as the risks and opportunities manager and ethics and compliance representative.
In 2023, Leith served as the Master of Ceremony for Airbus’ inaugural Artificial Intelligence event in Toulouse. His leadership in this international setting demonstrates his broad influence and growing expertise in advanced aerospace technology.
Leith is dedicated to fostering the development of future generations of aerospace professionals, with a passion for mentoring to level the playing field and promote Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in the workplace. He has maintained strong ties with Cranfield University, regularly engaging with students through career fairs, mentoring, and guest presentations.
In 2023, Leith was named in The Manufacturer Top 100 in three categories: Digital Transformer, Unsung Hero, and Young Pioneer. Additionally, he was shortlisted as a "Rising Star" by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport UK (CILT) and the Supply Chain Excellence Awards.
