Debbie McDade, Managing Director of Advanced Rework Technology (A.R.T.), has been named one of the winners in the Influential Women in Business Awards 2025, an initiative recognising leadership and achievement across the UK industry.
This marks the second consecutive year Debbie has been acknowledged by the awards, which highlighted her contribution to the electronics sector and her long-standing commitment to advancing high-quality technical training.
With more than 20 years’ experience in electronics manufacturing and education, Debbie has been instrumental in strengthening professional standards and ensuring that IPC training reflects the realities of modern production environments.
Debbie said: “I’m honoured to receive this recognition, particularly in an industry where women still remain under-represented at senior and technical levels. Throughout my career, I’ve focused on strengthening the quality and consistency of electronics manufacturing by ensuring training is practical, standards-driven, and relevant to modern production environments. Supporting people as they build their skills and progress in their careers has always been central to my work, and it’s rewarding to see that contribution recognised. I hope it encourages more women to consider technical roles and leadership paths within the electronics sector.”
As Managing Director of one of Europe’s longest-established independent IPC Certification Centres, Debbie oversees A.R.T.’s strategic direction while remaining directly involved in programme delivery as an IPC Master Instructor Trainer (MIT). Her work includes active participation in global standards development. She currently chairs several IPC European committees, contributes to international working groups, and has previously served as vice chair of both the IPC Technical Activities Executive Committee (TAEC) and the IPC Training Program Advisory Committee (V-TPAC).
A.R.T.’s leadership team also includes Director John Vickers, a qualified Master IPC Trainer. Together, they guide the company’s training and consultancy services for manufacturers, OEMs and service providers across the electronics supply chain, helping organisations maintain consistency, compliance and robust quality practices.
