SBUK’s MD: A champion for industry and future generations
Tania Cooper MBE has reacted with humility and a focus on community after being awarded the Outstanding Contribution prize at the 2024 Tees Businesswomen Awards.
Tania, the managing director of Steel Benders UK, believes the honour she received at Sedgefield’s Hardwick Hall reflects her dedication to uplift the engineering industry and future generations.
Her commitment to giving back to the community is evident by her actions.
As Chair of the North East STEM Foundation, she spearheads initiatives that break down barriers to education and strengthen ties between schools and industry.
She is also a driving force behind the creation of a new technical college on Teesside and is a mentor for the Entrepreneurs’ Forum.
Jane Turner Award
It was with those in mind that she was proud, and surprised, to collect the Jane Turner Award For Outstanding Contribution – named in memory of the much-loved former pro vice chancellor at Teesside University and the prime mover behind the awards.
“I’m honoured to be recognised in a room where so many other people have achieved so much,” she remarked. “There are so many deserving women to choose from, who all have outstanding contributions. To be chosen for this award is a genuine honour.”
She added: “By winning an award like this, it elevates the work that the industry and Steel Benders UK are doing across the region through engagement with STEM subjects.
“Collectively we are trying to encourage and engage in the industry for future generations, so this award isn’t for me it is for all of those other people out there driving forward in similar areas with that passion.”
Burning desire
Tania, holder of an MBE for services to international trade and business, has a burning desire to make a difference.
She said: “There is joy and pleasure in doing what I am doing for the industry because I firmly believe in giving back. It is a responsibility I feel I want to have because when you reach a stage in your career, the bandwidth is there to help people.
“There are various paths to success and every path is different. It is about tuning into your own path and making it as successful as you can – and that is my message for others today.”
* For more information about Steel Benders’ services check out steelbenders.co.uk