The Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC) is proud to celebrate two of its own — Emma McKenna, Head of Sustainable Manufacturing, and Dr. Lauren McGarry, Senior Engineer — who have been named finalists in the 2025 Northern Ireland Women in Tech Awards.  

Recognised for their ground-breaking work and leadership in manufacturing innovation, both women exemplify AMIC’s mission: enabling Northern Ireland’s industrial future through advanced technology, sustainability, and talent development. 

Championing Sustainability: Emma McKenna 

Shortlisted for the Green Impact Award (sponsored by Danske Bank), Emma McKenna leads AMIC’s sustainability strategy and the development of programmes that help manufacturers across Northern Ireland transition to a low-carbon, high-value economy. With a background in innovation policy and circular economy, Emma brings over a decade of experience from roles including Head of Net Zero at Innovate UK Business Connect. Her work has supported national-level climate strategies, launched multi-million-pound innovation funds, and shaped award-winning city-scale sustainability projects. 

“I’m honoured to be recognised for work that is deeply collaborative by nature,” said Emma. At AMIC, we believe that embedding sustainability at the heart of manufacturing isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s where the most exciting innovation is happening. This nomination is a reflection of the collective effort to build a greener, more competitive future for Northern Ireland.” 

Engineering the Future: Dr Lauren McGarry  

A finalist in the One to Watch in the Future category (sponsored by BT), Dr Lauren McGarry is a PhD-qualified aerospace engineer whose expertise in robotics, digital twin technology, and machine learning is helping transform the future of advanced manufacturing. Her research has been supported by global leaders such as Hexagon and has gained the interest of an aerospace multinational company, and she has made key contributions to Thales' Connected Reconfigurable Factory (COREF) project. 

At AMIC, Lauren is not only driving technical innovation but also leading the organisation’s expansion into the growing UK space sector. She was instrumental in launching Northern Ireland’s first Space Enterprise Lab and in showcasing AMIC’s capabilities at the UK Space Conference. 

“It’s a huge privilege to be named among the finalists,” said Lauren. From robotics to space, I'm passionate about innovating and using technology to solve real-world problems. I am equally passionate about making sure the next generation feels empowered to do the same.” 

Celebrating Excellence at AMIC 

These nominations are a proud moment for AMIC, underscoring the centre’s commitment to enabling innovation that matters — through world-class engineering, sustainability leadership, and the advancement of women in technology. 

“Emma and Lauren represent the very best of what we stand for at AMIC,” said Sam Turner, CEO (AMIC). They are not only leaders in their fields but also role models shaping what the future of advanced manufacturing can look like — collaborative, inclusive, and future-focused.”