Manufacturing Technologies Association appoints new President

The Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA) has appointed Stewart Lane as its new President.

Currently Renishaw’s Head of EMEA Business Development, Lane will champion the MTA’s mission to represent and advance the interests of UK manufacturing technology companies in his new role. He will work closely with the government, industry and research institutions, building on the legacy of outgoing President Tony Bowkett.

Lane has set out a clear vision and set of priorities for his term, including strengthening the industry’s voice by enhancing the collective influence of MTA members in policy discussions on regulation, trade and innovation.

He will also focus on skills and talent development, nurturing technical expertise, apprenticeships and workforce training across the sector.

Other priorities include championing the adoption of next-generation manufacturing technologies such as additive manufacturing, digital tooling, metrology and automation, as well as promoting export growth and raising the international profile of UK manufacturing technology companies.

Sustainability is another key part of his vision, with Lane aiming to drive sustainable practices, build supply chain resilience and foster innovation aligned with net-zero objectives.

“I am deeply honoured to accept the presidency of the MTA at what is a critical time for UK manufacturing. The sector faces both significant challenges and opportunities,” said Lane.

Lane brings over 30 years of experience in the industry, including 25 years at Renishaw. Outside the company, he has contributed significantly to the wider UK manufacturing sector. He is a past board member of the West of England Aerospace Forum (WEAF) and joined the MTA Board in 2016, where he became Chair of the MTA’s Education Committee and its representative on the Board of CECIMO, the European Association of Manufacturing Technologies.

In recent years, a key focus for Lane has been supporting the growth of additive manufacturing (AM) both within Renishaw and across the wider industry. Until recently, he was Chair of both AMUK and CECIMO’s European AM Committee. He continues to represent the UK internationally, working alongside fellow MTA Board member Marcus Burton and MTA CEO James Selka.

“Stewart brings to the role an exceptional breadth of experience across the technology spectrum. Having served on our Board since 2016, his understanding of both the technical and strategic dimensions of manufacturing positions him well to guide the Association forward,” said Selka.

www.mta.org.uk