Hinkley Supply Chain engagement officer Loretta Browne has won a prestigious international award in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the nuclear sector.
Loretta was named as the Women in Nuclear (WiN) Global Honorary award-winner for her commitment to the nuclear industry through her voluntary work with WiN.
Loretta, who lives in Axbridge, with her partner Chris and young son Aidan, is a founding member of WiN in the UK and has volunteered with the organisation for more than eight years, currently as its director of fundraising and partnerships.
The award citation states: “Loretta has been a committed member of WiN Global for over eight years and has made significant contributions to the organisation’s mission and vision. We celebrate her dedication and drive.”
WiN has representatives in 145 countries worldwide, with the UK branch formed in 2014 to encourage more women into the industry and to improve the representation of women in leadership.
Loretta said: “I am absolutely delighted to be given this recognition by WiN Global for my efforts in supporting WiN.
“Working with the WiN UK team to help drive change in the nuclear industry is fun and rewarding and I would urge everyone to get involved in WiN however they can to make this a more inclusive and diverse industry.”
Loretta was nominated for the award by WiN UK President Lynsey Valentine who said: “Loretta has been the heartbeat of WiN for eight years and despite many personal challenges, including a change of career path and the birth of her son, she has remained committed to WiN and contributed so much more than could be listed here. She would be a truly deserving recipient of this award.”
Loretta’s role with the Hinkley Supply Chain is to engage with existing Hinkley Point C contractors to support their procurement activities and to promote regional suppliers. She is also a business development consultant and a chartered engineer and has worked in the nuclear and defence industries for 20 years.
Emma Rawlings, Executive Director of Somerset Chamber of Commerce, which runs the Hinkley Supply Chain, congratulated Loretta on her win and said it was much deserved: “We are all thrilled for Loretta as she is absolutely committed to working in the nuclear sector and supporting women of all ages and from all backgrounds.
“It’s so important the nuclear industry isn’t seen as a male-dominated environment as there are so many opportunities for women right here on our doorstep at Hinkley Point C.”
