News: Rotherham MD recognised as a hero of UK manufacturing

Lisa Pogson, the managing director of Airmaster in Rotherham has been named in The Manufacturer Top 100 for 2025. Now in its 12th year, this prestigious programme recognises the most dynamic and inspiring individuals driving the future of UK manufacturing.

Airmaster are experts in mechanical services and maintenance and works nationwide from its base at Swallownest with big-name clients like Not on the High Street and Morgan Sindall Group.

Now in its 12th year, The Manufacturer Top 100 scours the length and breadth of the nation to find the 100 most dynamic leaders and innovators in manufacturing, nominated by The Manufacturer’s audience, the industrial community and judged by a panel of industry leaders, academics and manufacturing associations.

Lisa’s inclusion on this year’s list celebrates her decades-long contribution to the built environment sector and her tireless work championing sustainability, skills development, and inclusive leadership. Selected by a panel of industry leaders, academics, and key sector bodies, the list honours individuals making a profound impact across Net Zero, Digital Transformation, Innovation, and Leadership.

Lisa brings nearly 40 years of cross-disciplinary experience, having worked in architectural practice, quantity surveying, structural engineering, and construction before joining Airmaster. Over the past 30 years with the company, she has led its evolution into a values-driven, forward-thinking building services specialist. Under her stewardship, Airmaster now delivers intelligent heating, cooling, plumbing, and ventilation solutions and became an employee-owned trust in 2021, completing the buyout of its founders in 2024.

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A lifelong learner, Lisa holds an MSc in Management (Resources) from Sheffield Hallam University and was part of the inaugural UK cohort of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Programme in 2016. She is a passionate advocate for continuous development, having established Airmaster’s first apprenticeship programme in 2000, with that apprentice now serving as the company’s Operations Director. Airmaster has proudly held Investors in People accreditation for over 20 years, and Lisa continues to promote talent development across the sector.

Beyond Airmaster, Lisa is an energetic champion for industry engagement and community impact. She has served as a STEM Ambassador for over 16 years, supporting initiatives such as STEMazing, The Work-wise Foundation, and the Women in RACHP group. She is also Chair of Trustees at the children’s literacy charity Grimm & Co and acts as an Enterprise Advisor, reinforcing her belief in creating accessible pathways into technical and professional careers.

Lisa’s work as a leader of SMEs and local industry has also been widely recognised. She made history as the first female president of the combined Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce, serving for three years, and has been a Freeman of The Company of Cutlers of Hallamshire since 2014 — a reflection of her deep commitment to regional economic growth.

“I’m truly honoured to be recognised in The Manufacturer Top 100,” said Lisa Pogson. “This award is a testament to the brilliant people I work with, the supportive network I’ve built over the years, and my belief that great leadership means lifting others as you rise. Manufacturing in the UK is full of unsung heroes — and I’m proud to stand alongside them.”

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News: Sky’s the Limit for Barnsley & Rotherham’s Business of the Year

It proved to be a night to remember for South Yorkshire’s business community which came together to celebrate their achievements and reflect on the success they have enjoyed over the past 12 months at the Barnsley and Rotherham Business Awards.

During a glittering evening at the Magna Science Adventure Centre, the Barnsley and Rotherham Business Awards, sponsored by Barnsley College celebrated the achievements of all elements of South Yorkshire’s business community: from apprentices and new business owners taking the first steps in their chosen vocation, to organisations that have gone above and beyond the call of duty to deliver truly outstanding work in the fields of growth, people development, customer service, sustainability and community impact.

Hosted by TV presenter Amy Garcia, the event saw over 540 guests from across South Yorkshire’s business community come together to celebrate their achievements over the past 12 months. However, the night belonged to Parkgate-based Sky High Tree & Ground Maintenance Services Ltd, which was chosen by judges to be a worthy winner of the highly coveted title of Business of the Year.

Since founding the business with little more than a pair of hedge trimmers and a dream of working outdoors in 2014, founder Luke Hammill has seen his company grow into a successful multi-million-pound venture, which employs 30 full-time members of staff. Today, the company successfully works on behalf of housebuilders, local authorities and some of Britain’s largest construction companies, where the company is responsible for developing community green spaces throughout the UK.

Under Luke’s leadership, Sky High Tree & Ground Maintenance Services Ltd has enjoyed significant year on year growth, with turnover rising from £1 million to £3 million within the past 12 months alone. As a direct result, the company has invested significantly in new plant machinery, staff training as well as investing back into the communities they serve by working closely with armed forces charities to help veterans forge new careers upon returning to civilian life.

Cateegory winners on the saw three other Rotherham-based companies receive accolades, with education recruitment specialists Trust Education being named as Start-Up of the Year, Equans securing the People Development Award and the Manvers-based Mace Group being crowned best large business.

Barnsley-based winners saw Wombwell-based Cranswick Convenience Foods secured the Community Impact Award in recognition of its commitment to supporting a wide range of good causes in Barnsley and across South Yorkshire, whilst Barnsley College’s innovative Carbon Literacy Project, as well as work undertaken to reduce carbon emissions across its sites, was rewarded with the Sustainability Award.

Barnsley FC Community Trust secured the title of Charity of the Year in recognition of its transformative work in the field of education, health, social inclusion and sports participation. The trust, along with highly commended charities Weston Park Cancer Charity and Age UK Rotherham all received cash prizes to support their work in South Yorkshire.

Longstanding businesses Electrical Safety UK, Barnsley Hospice and Brearley & Co Accountants were presented with salutes to business in recognition of their 20, 30, and 40-year service respectively, whilst Barnsley-based JC Snell and White’s Bakery both celebrated their 90th anniversaries in 2024 – a combined total of more than 270 years’ service to South Yorkshire’s business community.

The important contributions made by charitable organisations were also recognised on the night, with Barnsley FC Community Trust securing the title of Charity of the Year, in recognition of its transformative work in the field of education, health, social inclusion and sports participation. The trust, along with highly commended charities Weston Park Cancer Charity and Age UK Rotherham all received cash prizes to support their work.

Individual awards presented saw Leo Lewin (Affinity 2020 CiC) awarded the title of Apprentice of the Year, whilst Alicia Hewitt (Secure Power Limited) was crowned as Businessperson of the Year. A Special President’s Award was also given to Chris MacCormac, Chief Executive of the Morthyng Group, in recognition of their transformative work within the education sector.

In a heartfelt tribute which looked back at his 30 year career, Chris was honoured for his nearly 30 years of leadership and dedication towards education and community support. Chris started his career a youth worker in 1980, before going to transform Morthyng into a leading national training provider, which has helped thousands from disadvantaged backgrounds. He retires after a distinguished career and was celebrated for his lasting impact on the local community.

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Luke Hammill, Managing Director, Sky High Ground Maintenance, said: “It has been an incredible year for our business. Winning the title of Business of the Year, securing the Growth Award as well as being highly commended in the Businessperson of the Year category is something that I feel incredibly proud to have achieved.

"When I set up the business ten years ago, never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that the company would grow and scale in the way it has done, and I feel very honoured that our efforts have been recognised in this way by the judges. I left school with no formal qualifications at all, and I hope the success I’ve enjoyed since starting my own business goes to show that with the right work ethic and determination, anything is possible.

"Having the right people to support you is key. I’d like to give a massive thank you to each and every person of my Sky High team, especially my partner Danielle who has been with me on every step of this amazing journey.

"Businesses play a vital role in shaping the local and regional economy. From the outset, I’ve always wanted my business to be a force for good: we undertake a wide range of community projects, from supporting local schools to breaking down barriers towards employment by giving veterans a chance to rebuild their lives after leaving the armed forces.

"Of course, we’ve got no intention of resting on our laurels. One of the reasons we joined Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber was because of the work it undertakes to create opportunities for its members within local supply chains. We’re hoping to work more closely with the Chamber in the years to come to bring these plans to fruition, which in turn will not just create more opportunities for our business but grow the local and regional economy.”

Mattthew Stephens, President, Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber, added: “Over the past 12 months there has been some incredible work delivered by businesses of all sizes across South Yorkshire. I would like to congratulate each and every business who supported this year’s event. The standard of entries was exceptional, and every organisation that was shortlisted, highly commended and winners on the night should feel incredibly proud of their achievements.

"Collectively, members of Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber employ more than 70,000 people across South Yorkshire. The success of events like our business awards helps to showcase and celebrate the achievements of our incredibly diverse business community – from start-ups taking the very first steps on their business journey to longstanding businesses, which have collectively devoted 270 years of service to our local communities, and despite many businesses preparing themselves for challenging times, at least in the short term, the Chamber will continue to offer support, advice and campaign on behalf of South Yorkshire businesses to ensure their voices are heard.”

Full list of winners:

Salute to Business

Electrical Safety UK – 20 years
Barnsley Hospice – 30 years
Brearley & Co Accountants – 40 years
JC Snell Ltd – 90 years
White’s Bakery – 90 years

President’s Award:

Chris MacCormac – Morthyng Vocational College

Most Promising New Business

Winner: Trust Education
Highly commended:
Grassroots Sports Academy Ltd
Morgan Wills & Trusts
Shortlisted:
AHJ Wills and Estates
Empress Building & Ballroom

Apprentice of the Year Award

Winner: Leo Lewin – Affinity 2020 CiC
Highly commended:
Ateeb Mughal – Equans
Joshua Turver – Gala Tent
Shortlisted:
Aiden Ellis – Osborne Technologies Limited
James Stretton – Equans

Business Growth Award

Winner: Sky High Tree & Ground Maintenance Services Limited
Highly commended:
Airmaster
M R Machine Knives
Shortlisted:
Trust Education
Wayv

Business Community Impact Award

Winner: Cranswick Convenience Foods
Highly commended:
Glu Recruit
MAKE YOUR MARK UK
Shortlisted:
Home Instead Sheffield & Barnsley
MWAY Communications Ltd

Commitment to People Development

Winner: Equans
Highly commended:
IT Desk (UK) Ltd
Secure Power Ltd
Shortlisted:
Home Instead Sheffield & Barnsley
SMH Haywood & Co

Excellence in Customer Service

Winner: Glu Recruit
Highly commended
IT Desk (UK) Ltd
MED-EL UK Ltd
Shortlisted:
Rotherham Insurance Brokers
Signum Facilities Management Ltd

Sustainability Award

Winner: Barnsley College
Highly commended:
Equans
instantprint
Shortlisted:
Hydrov Ltd
KCM Waste Management Ltd

Charity of the Year

Winner: Barnsley FC Community Trust
Highly commended:
Age UK Rotherham
Weston Park Cancer Charity
Shortlisted:
Cathedral Archer Project
Rotherham Hospice

Businessperson of the Year

Winner: Alicia Hewitt - Secure Power Ltd
Highly commended:
James Biggin - Steel City Marketing Ltd
Luke Hammill - Sky High Tree & Ground Maintenance Services Limited
Shortlisted:
Mark Smith - MAKE YOUR MARK UK
Rob Shaw - Glu Recruit

Large Business of the Year

Winner: Mace Group
Highly commended:
Equi Trek
instantprint
Shortlisted:
Boohoo Group Plc
Equans

BR Chamber Awards website

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News: Employees become beneficiaries of an Employee Owned Trust at Airmaster

At the beginning of July, Airmaster based in Rotherham, transitioned to be owned by the employees, establishing an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT).

Airmaster, who work nationwide from their base at Swallownest with big-name clients like Not on the High Street and Morgan Sindall Group, and has a turnover around £9m with 35 staff.

Founder, Richard Pogson and Director, Tony England were looking to realise some of their investment. The directors spent a considerable amount of time evaluating how best to ensure their successful firm continues to thrive and expand, when the time comes for them to exit the Company, and the decision to transform the business was taken. The solution was to create an Employee Ownership Trust. This is where the directors sell a majority share of the business and employees take a controlling interest.

Lisa Pogson, Managing Director said: “Airmaster is a family-feel business with a close-knit team, the ethos of Employee Ownership was already there. We are delighted to become an Employee Ownership Trust and reward the staff for their commitment to the company. We have seen the success of other employee-owned businesses locally; established ones such as Gripple, who I visited as part of a Connect Yorkshire springboard session and Karen Mosley and HLM Architects, who transitioned 6 months before Airmaster.

"We spoke to a number of others that had been through the process, as well as the South Yorkshire Ownership Hub (part of the South Yorkshire LEP) and The Employee Ownership Association, throughout the process, to get the best outcome for our team.”

Gareth Campbell, Contracts Director, added: "We are going through a phase of growth with lots of exciting opportunities; this gives us a great foundation to continue to grow the business whilst giving something back to the team that make that possible.”

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The Board consists of Chairman, Tony England; Managing Director, Lisa Pogson; Contracts Director, Gareth Campbell; supported by a great Senior Management team such as Senior Contracts Manager Ross Blackwood and Finance Manager Andy Benson, looking to grow and evolve, with the rest of the staff, growing the business that has gone from strength to strength for almost 30 years.

Richard and Tony said “We were made aware of the different types of EOT schemes, some of which include a financial commitment from the staff. However, it was important, to us that our employees would benefit from the scheme without incurring any financial burden.”

The Board of Trustees has an independent Chair, corporate finance specialist Margaret Ferris, Founder and former Director, Richard Pogson joins the Board of Trustees alongside Design Engineer, James Dawson who represents the employees on the Board.

Steve Vickers of Hart Shaw accountants and Matt Ainsworth of Knights Solicitors advised the Directors on the deal.

Margaret Ferris, Chair of Trustees said “I’m delighted to be involved with Airmaster, a company I have known for a number of years. The Employee Ownership Trust feels to be a really positive step for the culture of the business and into the next exciting of the company’s development. I look forward to going on this journey with them.”

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News: Airmaster promote former apprentice to director

Rotherham-based mechanical services company Airmaster, RAC Contractor of the Year, have just promoted former apprentice Gareth Campbell to contracts director.

Airmaster, who work nationwide from their base at Swallownest with big-name clients like Not on the High Street and Morgan Sindall Group, and has a turnover around £9m with 35 staff.

Almost 100% of the Airmaster workforce have been apprentices in their careers, including founder director Richard Pogson and five of his six senior management team. Contracts director Gareth Campbell, became Airmaster's first apprentice in 2000 when chairman Tony England joined to enable the next phase of growth.

"I joined Airmaster at 16 years old. I couldn't wait to put my school years behind me and start using a hammer and any powered machinery I was able to get my hands on!" remembers Gareth (pictured, centre). "Airmaster supported me to get on and encouraged fast learning and getting "stuck in", which has taken me from tool-passer to contracts manager and now director. With hard graft, I'd say anyone has the opportunity to move their career forward at Airmaster. Coupled with great people, it is what makes it a fantastic place to work."

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Lisa Pogson, managing director at Airmaster, said: "We are all really proud of Gareth. 19 years ago he was an apprentice, now via different roles and learning the key aspects of the business, he has become one of our directors. What a great achievement for him- it just goes to show that hard work, dedication to quality and the expertise our team of brilliant staff offer all our clients really does pay off.

This week is National Apprenticeship Week which is coordinated by the National Apprenticeship Service and is designed to celebrate apprenticeships and the positive impact they have on individuals, businesses and the wider economy.

Lisa added: "I started as an apprentice, so did most of our management team and staff. We are totally behind apprenticeships and as a company are heavily involved in many education initiatives from literacy in primary schools to STEM career choices in secondary schools and at University. We are delighted Gareth has been part of our successful growth. His recent promotion has also opened up an opportunity for an estimator and contracts manager so we are committed to continued expansion and "growing our own" wherever possible."

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News: All change in chamber boardroom

Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce is celebrating a record year of success after all three areas of the member-led organisation recorded significant growth during the past twelve months.

The impressive performance of the organisation was shared with members at its AGM which saw the organisation post its best financial results since the Barnsley and Rotherham Chambers merged in 2007.

Driven by a growing membership and increased demand for training amongst local businesses, the Chamber saw membership numbers rise to 1,152, as well as recording a 90% membership retention rate. The hard work of the membership team saw them shortlisted at the British Chamber of Commerce Awards for Excellence in Membership Services.

At the recent AGM, chief executive Andrew Denniff also welcomed a number of new appointments to the Chamber's Board. Tricia Smith of the Source Skills Academy; Glen Banks of Kinspeed and Frank Kler of Learning Curve Group were appointed as non-executive directors.

This year will see Lisa Pogson of Airmaster enter into the final year of her presidency, and during the meeting her successor was confirmed as business consultant Mark Broxholme who has spent much of his career working in the Steel Industry, before launching Swallow Consultancy in 2016.

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Both Andrew and Lisa also paid tribute to longstanding director Gareth Owen, who stepped down from his role with the Chamber at the AGM. A well-known member of South Yorkshire's legal community, Gareth spent more than 34 years working at Sheffield-based Keeble Hawson, and has acted as a member of Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber's Member Representation Council since 2009 and been a non-executive director since 2010.

Andrew Denniff, chief executive of Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber, said: "For the first time in the history of our Chamber, when the board meets again, there will be more women sitting around the table than men. I think this speaks volumes about how far we have come as an organisation. Over the past twelve months we have seen all areas of our business enjoy significant growth and this is largely due to the efforts and dedication of our staff and Chamber members who have given up their time to support our work through our member representation council and working groups.

"As Britain heads towards uncertain economic times, the need for support and representation for local businesses has never been greater. Despite the uncertainty posed over the implications of Brexit, it is clear that growing numbers of business owners across the region are turning to the Chamber for advice and support."

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News: Airmaster wins contractor of the year award

Rotherham-based mechanical services company Airmaster has won a coveted industry award, recognised for setting the benchmark for the industry.

Based at Swallownest, Airmaster design, install and maintain bespoke, energy efficient heating and air conditioning systems for a range of market sectors.

The RAC Cooling Industry Awards were held at the Park Lane Hilton in London where over 600 of the refrigeration and air conditioning industry elite came together for a night of recognition and celebration of the sector's achievements.

Airmaster, who work with big-name clients like Not on the High Street nationwide, impressed judges to be named the Contractor of the Year.

The judges said: "We found this year's entries to be of an exceptional standard, but in the end, it was Airmaster who took the laurels for its holistic approach to the business of cooling. The judges particularly liked the company's enthusiasm for accreditation and the work Airmaster is doing for skills- in schools, in apprenticeships, in real "lifelong learning" and in promoting women in refrigeration. Airmaster set the benchmark for the industry."

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Lisa Pogson, managing director of Airmaster who collected the award on the night on behalf of the team of 36, said: "To be told you are the best in the industry at what you do is such a privilege and an honour. We are all thrilled that the hard work, dedication to quality and expertise our team of brilliant staff offer all our clients.

"Our customer service is key; from commercial clients, manufacturers and educational teams to fit out contractors, retail and facilities teams, right across to domestic customers – that service now been recognised nationally. This award comes hot on the heels of our business development manager, Ian Fisher, being chosen from over 130 national entrants as one of 40 UK role models for the construction industry, so we are celebrating our exceptional team twice now."

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News: Airmaster's Ian is a role model for construction industry

Airmaster's Ian Fisher been chosen from over 130 national entrants as one of 40 UK role models for the construction industry.

Based at Swallownest, Rotherham, Airmaster is a leading mechanical services company where Ian is the business development manager.

As a UK Construction Week role models, he will be speaking at a host of nationwide events, writing thought leader articles for the industry magazine and taking part in the new student outreach programme. Under this initiative, role models will go into colleges and schools in the coming months to talk to students and teachers at key stages of their education to explain what inspired them to choose construction as a career and bust any myths around the image of construction.

UK Construction Week is the UK's largest built environment event; bringing together 35,000 construction professionals and 650+ exhibitors at the NEC Birmingham in October. It has launched a new initiative for 2018 to help the sector compete for talent. It will do this by taking industry role models and elevating their profile in a nationwide publicity campaign.

Airmaster are themselves a multi award-winning business, currently shortlisted as a finalist in the RAC Cooling Awards, and work with clients like Not on the High Street all over the UK.

Ian grew up on a council estate in Sheffield and left school with just a decent grade in Maths. His first job was as an air conditioning apprentice and he joined Airmaster 15 years ago as maintenance manager. His current role sees him look out for new business opportunities and better working practices at the forefront of renewable technology, enabling Airmaster clients to have a lower carbon loading and more future proof business.

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Ian Fisher, business development manager at Airmaster (pictured), said: "In my first job, I was fortunate to be trained in-house by some very talented engineers and was invited to join Airmaster as maintenance manager. The company invested in me to the extent I have now become a STEM, air conditioning and construction industry ambassador.

"My roles have included committee member at the Institute of Refrigeration, giving technical talks to college students already studying air conditioning UK-wide, and also working with groups of school students, introducing them to the wide range of career opportunities in our industry.

"The best part of my job is my ambassador role, being face to face with young people at events like the annual regional Get Up To Speed day at Magna, school job fairs, "Dragons Den" style presentations and conducting mock interviews. I always seem to find that one young person who cares about the environment and knows about global warming - the one with a genuine interest in what I am saying who could go on to make a difference in the world with a career in our industry.

"I must be enthusiastic - my own son Charlie joined Airmaster as an apprentice and has now completed his NVQ Level 3 in Air Conditioning. I couldn't be more proud of him."

Lisa Pogson, managing director af Airmaster, nominated Ian for the award. Lisa said: "The words I hear about Ian Fisher most are "enthusiastic" and "inspiring", including from head teachers in the schools he goes into such as a recent Head in Milton Keynes, where Ian spoke at the Women in Refrigeration event, and recently at Aston School locally in Rotherham where we are based.

"He is such a great role model for young people. Despite starting his working life with few qualifications, he has worked very hard to gain tough industry qualifications like TM44 Energy Assessments, and his energy, charisma and supportive character have ensured his success.

"He really champions the team and is brilliant at problem solving to help others with his constant stream of new ideas. He is a loyal and valuable member of the team who Ian tells it like it is - he really encourages students like at our Get Up to Speed STEM careers events where hordes of students gather around our stand in large groups to hear Ian's journey and love of his subject and industry."

Airmaster website
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News: Chamber marks International Women’s Day

Over 100 business women and men from across South Yorkshire attended the Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce's Women in Business event to celebrate International Women's Day.

Supported by the Chamber, the group meet regularly to come up with ideas and opportunities for creative, inspiring and interactive ways for women to network, learn, signpost and share with each other.

Sponsored by Airmaster, Berneslai Homes, Rotherham Together Partnership, Zeun Digital, Picture Perfect Photography and Mitsubishi Electric, highlighted the achievements, challenges and role of women in both a personal and professional capacity.

Speakers included several female business leaders from across the region including author and mental health advocate Kathryn Littlewood; award-winning managing director of Thermotex Chloe Watmore; Gulliver's managing director Julie Dalton and Chamber president Lisa Pogson. The clear message was that women can do anything, be anything and achieve anything.

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Julie Dalton, mother of two and managing director of Gulliver's Theme Parks (pictured, right), said: "It was a real pleasure to be asked to speak for Women in Business at their annual International Women's Day event. The day was brilliant, celebrating and reflecting on the contribution women make to the community through business. I am very pleased to say most of our senior leadership team at Gulliver's consists of women - not because we have cherry picked - but because they were the best candidates and most qualified for the job."

Among the presentations female entrepreneurs and their children hosted "Sofa Chats" inspired by the Listening Project and developed by the BBC and National Archives, which explored the life of working mums from both sides. These included Rotherham-based Grimm & Co founding director Deborah Bullivant and her son Luke Dale; filmmaker and entrepreneur Nuzrath Al-Baqir and her daughter Nabeela Mowlana and Graywoods founder Deborah Lockwood and her daughter Danielle.

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This year's theme was #PressforProgress, which marks the 100th anniversary certain women got the vote following the passion and determination of the Suffragette movement. The event highlighted how the role of women changed after this landmark decision and what, if anything, the role of women would be now should this shift in politics not have happened.

Jackie Freeborn, chair of Women in Business and co-host of International Women's Day (pictured, left), said: "This is the third year we have held an International Women's Day event and each year it becomes bigger, better and more passionate. All the Chamber's Women in Business events aim to help business women across Barnsley and Rotherham by providing support through collaboration to ensure they can grow and develop.

"The real success of the event was to find how guests felt inspired, uplifted and motivated after hearing moving, funny and truly inspirational stories from our guest speakers and hosts.

"I would like to say a huge thank you to every single person who joined us to help celebrate International Women's Day. We are already making plans for our 2019 event!"

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News: Celebrating women in engineering

RNN Training has showcased its success stories in its support for the recent International Women in Engineering Day.

The annual event was set up by the Women's Engineering Society (WES) to focus on engineering and technical roles for young women, and celebrate the achievements of women engineers.

The training provider, which is part of the RNN Group, is committed to encouraging women into the engineering profession and picked out former Rotherham College mature student, Lisa Pogson, as a great advocate for women in engineering.

Lisa studied for a HND in Business & Finance and is now joint managing director of Airmaster Air Conditioning based in Swallownest, and president of the Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce.

Lisa, who has worked in the construction industry for most of her working life, said: "I'm passionate about encouraging more females into STEM roles and studying at Rotherham College really helped advance my career in the field.

"Through rich storytelling and highlighting role models young women can relate to, I believe we can help inspire more to pursue a career in engineering."

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RNN Training also highlighted the success of Ellie Chandler who became the first woman to work in the engineering maintenance team at HMP Moorland.

Starting her working life providing operational support at Doncaster Prison, Ellie was looking for the opportunity to progress further when she applied for an Engineering Apprenticeship with AMEY, a company that provides engineering maintenance.

Ellie (pictured) explained: "Our role is to make sure that the environment is safe and this could range from small jobs to a "smash up" where a prisoner has gotten angry and broken things. In those situations we'll go to a job immediately and carry out repairs."

Ellie also spends time at Rotherham College to support her practical learning, and takes part in a small tutorial group.

Offering her advice for other women who are considering a career in engineering, Eliie added: "Go with an open mind, and don't be worried just because it's a male dominated industry. If you think you'd enjoy it, just do it and you'll be absolutely fine."

Philip Sayles, deputy principal of the RNN Group, which includes RNN Training, said: "It's the job of training providers, teachers, colleges, universities and parents to work together and educate young people about what's involved in a career in engineering.

"It's not solely about maths and physics, but about project management and being creative. It is also vital to solving the problems that the country and world are facing today.

"An engineering course at one of our colleges is the perfect start to any young person's engineering career, whether they desire to progress on to a Higher Education course at college or university or go straight out into the industry."

RNN Training website
Airmaster website

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News: Women in Business celebrate

Winning business women who scooped major awards in 2016 inspired all at a festive event staged by Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber's Women in Business working group.

Supported by the chamber, the group meet regularly to come up with ideas and opportunities for creative, inspiring and interactive ways for women to network, learn, signpost and share with each other.

Lisa Pogson, the first female president of the Chamber (pictured, back row, right), told the group's annual Christmas lunch it was a privilege to be with so many outstanding women.

She said: "Really inspirational young leaders, entrepreneurs and professionals, who also happen to be caring women, are all shaping the success of this region and many are with us today. I am so very proud to lead them."

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Over 70 attended the event at Whitley Hall, a record for the annual event. They included Michelle Bailey, of Active Response Security, 2016 BR Awards Business Person of the Year, Sheffield City Region's renowned supporter of young entrepreneurs Jill White, WIB Athena Awards recipient, and Rotherham's Lord Mayor, Cllr Lyndsay Pitchley.

Leaders of the Chamber's charity of the year, New Life Foundation for disabled children, were presented with £317 from the day's raffle. WIB's Christmas charity, Sara's Flowers and Teas, gratefully received donations of gifts, warm clothes and sleeping bags and Food in Crisis Rotherham received food donations which will be handed to homeless local people over the festive season.

Forthcoming WIB events include Women, Work & Motherhood at Grimm & Co in Rotherham town centre, on January 31, 5pm, when former High Sheriff Julie Kenny CBE and other successful women will be accompanied by a son or daughter and enter into an honest dialogue about the reality of being the child of a career mother.

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News: Chamber elects new president

Lisa Pogson of Rotherham-based Airmaster Air Conditioning Ltd has officially become the president of Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce.

"Unlike America, we can elect a female president," joked outgoing president Paul Jagger MBE at the Chamber's AGM this week. The appointment marks the first woman president since the merger of the two chambers.

Lisa joined the chamber as a member in 2011, and has since become a member of Representation Council, Chair of the Chambers Audit & Finance Committee and also an active member of the Women in Business group. She was named as president elect at the end of 2015. A former Rotherham College student and lecturer, Lisa is a STEM ambassador, promoting engineering to the future workforce, and is heavily involved with innovative Rotherham-based literacy charity, Grimm & Co.

Based at Swallownest, Airmaster design, install and maintain bespoke, energy efficient heating and air conditioning systems for a range of market sectors. In 1992, turnover was £80k – now turnover is £12m.

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At the event, hosted by Aston Hall Hotel, Pogson gave thanks to members of the board and staff at the chamber for their support, now and going forward.

Lisa Pogson, president of Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce, said: "I've been thinking about what the focus will be for the chamber and what my legacy will be but I haven't got a clue! In the last few months we've had Brexit, a new Prime Minister and now Trump. My head is in a spin!

"One thing I want to focus on is confidence. Confidence in our businesses and exports, confidence in our skills and confidence in the long term investment in property. I also want to celebrate balance, the importance of women on boards, our young people and continued collaboration."

Andrew Denniff, chief executive at Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce said. "I am delighted that Lisa has been appointed our President and I look forward to working closely with her over the next two years, during what will be an exciting time for everyone here at the Chamber."

The focus for the chamber is likely to follow on from the work done under past president Paul Jagger in his two year tenure - a continued focus on members, infrastructure in the region (such as HS2 and broadband) and the South Yorkshire chambers responding to the Sheffield city region and devolution.

The new president was welcomed by the Mayor of Rotherham at the event supported by NatWest.

Also at the event Anne Wilson MBE from Numill Engineering and Mark Broxholme, now of Swallow Consulting, were named as non-executive directors of the chamber with Broxholme joining Mathew Stephens of Quest Property in becoming vice-presidents.

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News: Airmaster takes aim at £10m turnover

Airmaster, a full mechanical services provider based at Swallownest in Rotherham, has made changes to its top tier as it aims to power through the £10m turnover mark.

Airmaster design, install and maintain bespoke, energy efficient heating and air conditioning systems for a range of market sectors.

As founder Richard Pogson steps away from the company he founded in 1992 to pursue his interests in house and car projects, resources director Lisa Pogson becomes joint managing director with former operations director Mark Staniland.

Richard's co-director Tony England also steps down to spend more time in France.

The firm expanded into new premises, a converted pub, in 2011, which enabled growth in all departments, most prominently contracts and administration.

Lisa Pogson, President Elect at the Barnsley Rotherham Chamber and a founding member of their Women in Business group is delighted to be at the helm as Airmaster's growth accelerates at a colossal pace.

Lisa said: "Our turnover target was £7m this year, but we have already smashed £9.5m. We now have 40 staff and our numbers are growing almost daily. We're currently looking for a site supervisor in the South and more field engineers shortly."

Joint MD Mark Staniland puts the growth down to engaging with the government's sadly defunct Growth Accelerator programme and numerous successful bids for million pound contracts.

Mark said: "A typical Airmaster job now ranges from £700k to £1.8m. We have attracted big national names like Morgan Sindall Group, Oktra and Area Squared.

"We are still growing our maintenance team and increasing contracts. Next year in our 25th anniversary year, we aim to break £10m."

Most recent team members include project engineer Michael Archbould, from Aston. He joins Airmaster with ten years of experience at York-based multinational Shepherd Engineering Services and a stint as site supervisor at Sheffield University's AMRC.

Hallam graduate, mechanical design engineer James Dawson of Kelham Island had been looking for a mechanical design engineer role for a year before he was introduced to Airmaster through a local recruiter's graduate programme.

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News: Chamber confirm president elect

Lisa Pogson of Rotherham-based Airmaster Air Conditioning Ltd will become Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce's president next year.

Paul Jagger MBE was appointed as president for a two year term of office this time last year, with Lisa Pogson appointed as a new vice-president.

Following November's annual general meeting, the chamber has confirmed Airmaster's resources director as president elect who will become Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce's President during Autumn 2016.

Lisa joined the chamber as a member in 2011, and has since become a member of Representation Council, Chair of the Chambers Audit & Finance Committee and also an active member of the Women in Business group. A former Rotherham College student and lecturer, Lisa is a STEM ambassador, promoting engineering to the future workforce, and is heavily involved with innovative Rotherham-based literacy charity, Grimm & Co.

Based at Swallownest, Airmaster design, install and maintain bespoke, energy efficient heating and air conditioning systems for a range of market sectors. In 1992, turnover was £80k – now turnover is £5m.

Lisa said: "As president elect, I aim to continue to raise the profile of the Chamber locally. I am very proud to represent our members and show the positive role of women on Boards."

Andrew Denniff, chief executive at Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce, added: "I am delighted that Lisa has committed to becoming our president in 2016 and her unanimous appointment as our "president elect" at the recent AGM reflects the high regard our members have for her. I look forward to working closely with her over the next few months, during what will be an exciting but challenging time for everyone here at the chamber."

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News: Chamber appoints new president

Paul Jagger MBE has been appointed as president for a two year term of office at Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce, with Lisa Pogson of Airmaster Air Conditioning appointed as a new vice-president.

Jagger was appointed pro-chancellor of the University of Bradford in April 2006 and chair of its council from August 2006. He became Chair of the corporation at Thomas Rotherham College in July 2013 and is also a councillor on Stocksbridge Town Council.

He was educated in Halifax and served an apprenticeship as a plumber in Halifax in the early 1960s. He went on to study Contemporary History and Politics at Salford University in the 1980s.

He was regional secretary of the Trades Union Congress for Yorkshire and the Humber for 19 years until October 2005. He was also the president of Sheffield Chamber of Commerce in its 150th year during 2006/07.

Paul is the vice-chair of the Committee of University Chairs, chair of the Consultative Council of UCAS and is vice-chair of the national negotiating team at UCEA, for the University sectors pay and conditions. He is also chairs the employers' panel at NEST (National Employers Savings Trust).

Lisa Pogson, resources director at Airmaster Air Conditioning Ltd based at Swallownest, Rotherham, was made the newest board member at the Chamber of Commerce in February.

Airmaster design, install and maintain bespoke, energy efficient heating and air conditioning systems for a range of market sectors. Lisa also sits on the Retail Sector Forum for the Sheffield City Region Local Enterprise Partnership and is a pro-active member of the Chamber's Women in Business group.

The appointments were confirmed at the eighth AGM of the chamber, where it was also confirmed that Helen Jaggar of Berneslai Homes and Matthew Stephens of Gateway Plaza Ltd were elected as new board members.

Andrew Denniff, chief executive at Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce, said: "I am delighted with all the new appointments and look forward to working with them and the rest of the Board in continuing our recent progress and looking forward with enthusiasm to the future.

"I would also wish to place on record my own personal thanks to former president Chris MacCormac, who after many years of service, is standing down from his position as a director and board member."

Lisa and Paul are pictured either side of Immediate Past-President Owen Gleadall.

Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce website

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News: Airmaster backs Grimm Rotherham literacy project

Airmaster, a leading energy efficient heating and cooling company, is supporting Grimm & Co, a new Yorkshire literacy charity based in Rotherham.

Based at Swallownest, Airmaster design, install and maintain bespoke, energy efficient heating and air conditioning systems for a range of market sectors.

Grimm & Co, based in Rotherham town centre and working around the region, aims to unlock imaginations, engage, enthuse and inspire children and young people in the literary arts. Rothbiz featured the innovate project and its aims to create a fantastical retail destination in Rotherham to inspire children to work without knowing they are working, and increase participation in literacy projects through a creative writing and mentoring centre.

Airmaster's resources director Lisa Pogson has joined the board of the charity. She said: "I met Deborah Bullivant, who is director at Grimm & Co, on the women in business group I help lead at Barnsley and Rotherham Chamber, when she had just started raising funds for the charity and forming local links. It all connected to the community, helping with literacy, reading and learning which has been so important on my own journey, so I immediately felt compelled to help in some way. Deborah is an amazing lady and before I knew it I was on the charity board, volunteering!"

The idea for Grimm & Co. was inspired by the Dave Eggers' 2008 TED Talk on people engaging with local schools, the work of 826 Valencia that he established in San Francisco (a Pirate Supply Store), and the Ministry of Stories in London (Hoxton St. Monster Supplies).

In its first 18 months, Ministry of Stories engaged over 1,000 volunteers, worked with over 5,000 local children and young people to produce writing of all forms, and attracted donations from more than 1,000 individuals.

Backed by innovation charity, Nesta, the organisation is working with a handful of associate projects with the aim of identifying strong candidates to open new pilot chapters of the initiative. Ultimately, the team wants to see a Ministry of Stories in every community that can support one.

Lisa added: "Every study into literacy shows it has a massive effect on people's life chances. It cannot be right that last year, English 16 to 24 year olds came 22nd out of 24 countries measured for literacy levels by the OECD. It is vital that children enjoy reading – reading for pleasure is more important than either wealth or social class as an indicator of success at school. Yet I hear from the Reading Agency only 40% of England's ten year olds have a positive attitude to reading - a tide this project aims to turn.

"Airmaster is also collecting items for the Apothecary, the shop that will help to sustain the Grimm & Co writing centre, for which we have exciting plans afoot this year."

Grimm & Co. is currently recruiting for volunteers and commissioning artists on a freelance basis to undertake a range of projects. 

Airmaster website
Grimm & Co. website

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News: Chamber appoints new board member

Lisa Pogson, resources director at Airmaster Airconditioning Ltd based at Swallownest, Rotherham, has been confirmed as the newest board member at the Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce.

Airmaster design, install and maintain bespoke, energy efficient heating and air conditioning systems for a range of market sectors. Lisa also sits on the Retail Sector Forum for the Sheffield City Region Local Enterprise Partnership and is a pro-active member of the Chamber's Women in Business group.


Commenting after her nomination was accepted unanimously at a recent Chamber Council meeting, Lisa (pictured) said: "I hope that my passion and commitment that I have focussed on our own business can be reflected in my new role with the Chamber. Here is a real opportunity for me to help shape and influence the local economy and see it grow and prosper. The role of the Chamber is crucial and how we all respond to the opportunities in the months ahead is critical to the regeneration of the region's economy."

Andrew Denniff, chief executive of the Chamber, added: "I am delighted with Lisa's appointment and I am sure I speak on behalf of the Board that we are all looking to working with her over the next few years, during what will be a key period for many businesses within our region."

The Chamber's latest AGM also confirmed the appointment of Paul Jagger of Thomas Rotherham College as president elect, with TRC's chair of governors is set to succeed into the position during November 2014.

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