“The next time you are flying, consider this: from economy through to super first class, it’s highly likely that the seat you are sitting on includes parts manufactured in Northern Ireland by IPC Mouldings,” says Joanne Liddle, managing director, IPC Mouldings.
For many companies, this impressive fact would only ever be an aspiration, but for Carrickfergus-based IPC Mouldings, it is the result of over 30 years’ hard work, the output of its talented team, and from nurturing trusted relationships, particularly across the aircraft interiors sector.
Established in 1994, IPC opened with a single injection moulding machine and six employees. Thanks to their expertise and technical knowledge, the company got its big break winning contracts to supply aircraft interior parts for the Skylux, Ambience and Spectrum Seating programmes – the latter which was described as the most successful single aisle seat of its time.
IPC has carved out a reputation as one of the leading providers of injection moulded parts and engineered assemblies and is a long-term strategic growth partner to the global leader in aircraft interiors.
In tandem with its global success, it is committed to retaining the knowledge and skills that exist within the province through training and development of the next generation of engineers.
“Northern Ireland is renowned for the strength of its manufacturing sector, and it’s hugely important that we continue to leverage this success,” Joanne Liddle, managing director of IPC Mouldings, said.
“IPC is passionate about imparting our knowledge and skills to up-and-coming engineers, giving them first-hand experience and exposure to the diverse career paths that manufacturing offers.
“Igniting that spark early will help us recruit and retain the best talent in the future. This is a key objective and a commitment to long-term investment for IPC; it’s aligned to our skills strategy for future growth, and bolstered by our participation in a range of STEM-related activities.”
In addition to organising factory visits for local schools, as well as social enterprises including Access Employment Ltd, IPC offers placement and intern opportunities for Ulster University and Queen’s University Belfast students. It also offers apprenticeship programmes through Workplus and Northern Regional College.
Proactive outreach initiatives have seen successful partnerships established with Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and its successful Manufacturing Task Force and Science Summer School programmes, with the company supporting and attending various events showcasing what it offers prospective employees.
IPC’s positive influence on young people is evidenced in placement student, Ben Middleton, who was shortlisted in the National Undergraduate Employability awards for his contribution during his time with the company, and who now is employed as a manufacturing engineer.
Many long service employees, including Warren Hanley who began his career with the company over 30 years ago, shows the opportunities for progression, while providing new staff members with the benefit of this wisdom and experience.
“We want to play our part in helping NI overcome the current skills shortage, and change the narrative that manufacturing is not an attractive career option,” Joanne says. “This sector offers endless possibilities at all levels, and the opportunity to contribute to the local economy while retaining the region’s proud manufacturing heritage on a world-wide stage.”
With an increase in new contracts, and investment in new machinery and premises on the horizon, the sky is the limit for IPC Mouldings.
For more information, visit www.ipcmouldings.com