ADS manager for Northern Ireland Leslie Orr is passionate about
helping member companies within the region's aerospace, defence and
security industries to survive and thrive in the global downturn.
How did you get your start in aviation?
As a 16-year-old school RAF Air Cadet, I remember being strapped into
a glider at Lossiemouth air base in Scotland. Fear grew as the "bungee"
rope attached to the front of the glider was stretched by the launch
winch. As the tension in the rope was cracked up it was like that moment
of trepidation at the start of a roller-coaster ride. Then the pilot
released the tail hook and we launched. There was rush, g force
and amazing wind noise, then we were up, the rope was released and as we
glided there was silence, peace and the thrill of flight.
What does your job at ADS NI involve?
The aerospace, defence and security industry is a major contributor
to the Northern Ireland economy, with more than 8,000 employees. Major
firms like Bombardier, Thales, B/E Aerospace and RFD Beaufort have
substantial operations in Northern Ireland and there is a very strong
SME base of design and supply chain companies. The industry is supported
by world-class research centres at Queen's University and the
University of Ulster.
My role is to help grow the sector, to provide member value. This
involves working closely with government and particularly Invest NI. It
involves business development, delivering business events, international
business leads and contacts. It involves bringing the sector together
to help form clusters. It also involves promoting business improvement
and quality excellence through programmes such as SC21 (Supply Chains
for the 21st Century). Read more...
(Photo: ADS Northern Ireland)
Recent Comments