We are pleased to announce that Dr Kate Barclay has received an MBE in the New Year’s Honours list to reflect her contribution to education and skills.
Kate is a chartered chemical engineer, fellow of the Institution of Chemical Engineers, and a highly valued board member at IfATE ever since our launch in April 2017.
She has over 30 years’ experience in the pharmaceutical industry across both advanced commercial manufacturing and early clinical research and development.
Previously Kate was Chair of the Life Science and Industrial Sciences Trailblazer, developing multiple apprenticeship standards across STEM industries with responsibility for delivering apprenticeship reform at a national science industry level.
Her early talent programmes in Science and Engineering have received numerous awards and national recognition by professional bodies, industry partnerships and diversity champions.
Kate has a passion for developing STEM talent through all routes, is a board member of North Hertfordshire College and volunteers as a STEM ambassador in local secondary schools.
She also sits on the advisory board of the Institute of Technical Skills and Strategy.
Jennifer Coupland, IfATE’s chief executive, said: “It is wonderful to see Kate’s drive and passion for improving lives through technical education recognised so publicly.
Kate is an inspirational leader in her field – and she is a shining example of how an individual can make a huge difference.
“I am personally grateful to Kate for the considerable ambition, expertise and dedication she has brought to her role as an IfATE board member for the best part of a decade.”
“It is great to see the world of apprenticeships recognised by the King, and well done to all of those who have been honoured today!”
Dr Kate Barclay, said the honour was a wonderful surprise, and that it has been a pleasure to serve on IfATE’s board:
"Playing a leading role in apprenticeships and technical education across England has been a real privilege, a huge personal challenge and powerful learning experience that I hope means there are many, many more opportunities for people to progress into meaningful careers.’’
‘‘I have a passion for opportunity and believe that your background, characteristics, and previous experiences should play a positive part in the contributions you make and definitely not be a barrier.
“As a biochemical engineer and sector leader I’ve enjoyed the diverse governance challenges across professional and technical education reform, continually ensuring the employer voice is central to the development of high-quality standards and fostering collaboration across sectors.’’