By info@ico28.com 
Professor John Woodward’s has been recognised for his work developing the new North East Space Skills and Technology (NESST) centre. He is the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (International) at Northumbria University where the £50 million centre is based.
North East
Specifically, he wins the Business Person of the Year title in this year’s North East Business Awards.
“I’ve described NESST to many people by saying we used to build ships on the Tyne and now we’re going to build spaceships,” said Woodward at the awards. “For me, this perfectly describes the natural evolution of the region’s industrial base towards the new industries of the future.
“NESST is a huge collaborative effort which will play an essential role in launching the UK as a space superpower, reaping huge benefits the North East on every level. I am delighted that NESST has been so well received by the region’s business community, and I am equally delighted to accept the award on behalf of everyone involved in NESST.”
His work involves local and national government, regional, national and international industry bodies. Basically, driving the development of the centre.
NESST
NESST, involving a partnership with the UK Space Agency and Lockheed Martin UK Space, will create around 350 jobs and inject £260 million into the North East economy over the next 30 years. Its based on Northumbria’s city campus in Newcastle.
The centre plans to bring together industry and academia to collaborate on international space research and technological developments. It also aims is to catalyse the wider development of the UK space sector in the North East region.
The North East Business Awards celebrate “the best in innovation, entrepreneurship, technology and creativity”. They highlight the people and businesses making a difference in the region.
See also: UKSA backs Northumbria University for FSO CubeSats
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FAQ
1.Who is Professor John Woodward?
Professor Woodward is a key figure in the UK’s space industry and was recently awarded the “Business Person of the Year” for his leadership in developing the NESST Centre at Northumbria University.
2.What is the NESST Centre?
The NESST Centre is a £50 million project aimed at advancing space research and skills in the UK. It will focus on innovation in satellite communications, space weather, and space-based energy.
3.What does the NESST Centre aim to achieve?
It aims to bridge the gap between academia and the space industry, creating a hub for cutting-edge research and development while supporting over 350 jobs.
4.How will the NESST Centre benefit the UK economy?
It is projected to contribute £260 million to the local economy over the next 30 years.
5.Why was Professor Woodward honored?
He was honored for his pivotal role in bringing the NESST Centre to life, fostering partnerships with major organizations like the UK Space Agency and Lockheed Martin.
6.What role will the NESST Centre play in space education?
It will offer training programs to cultivate a highly skilled workforce, positioning the UK as a leader in space research and innovation.
7.What is the long-term vision for NESST?
NESST aims to become a global center for space technology, significantly enhancing the UK’s competitiveness in the global space economy.