The Advance Award for Advanced Manufacturing has this year gone to Adam Gilmour, CEO of Gilmour Space Technologies.

The award recognises Gilmour’s entrepreneurial streak, co-founding and operating one of Australia’s new wave of space start-ups which compete with other global rocket manufacturers and launches. Gilmour’s low-cost hybrid rockets support Australia’s growing satellite industry, and in the past have partnered with the University of Southern Queensland to develop new rocket technology including space-grade composite materials.

The Advance Awards acknowledge those Australians whose work is making an impact around the world, and span technological innovation to social impact, healthcare, and the arts.

“We can all feel very proud that Australia produces many exceptional leaders and trailblazers who are making a significant impact around the world,” said Advance chairman, Yasmin Allen.

While Australia can remain focussed on the endeavours of those who remain within Australia, the network of Australian expats around the world provide global connections for local businesses, and for those who do return, a wealth of knowledge about international markets.

“It’s critical that our expatriate community remains strongly connected to Australia while they live and work overseas. We want to recognise and support their contribution and help resettle them when they are ready to return to Australia,” said Allen.

The winners of the Advance awards are selected by a judging panel of renowned Australians, and the 200 nominations that rolled in for this year’s awards came from over 28 countries.

“Through Advance events, academic ties, business networks, and mentoring programs, we’re creating a global network of Australians. We want to promote their skills and knowledge which in turn builds Australia’s reputation internationally,” said Allen.