Three Cumbrian women on a mission to boost gender balance, are in the running for top awards in the nuclear industry.

Angie Dean and Cathie Hunter from the Women in Nuclear Cumbria (WiN) team are finalists for the Mission Possible award for their work to build networks in Cumbria.

Amanda McKay, of Balfour Beatty, is up for Champion of the Year for her work to inspire and encourage others within the nuclear industry.

The women are working with WiN UK to improve the representation of women in leadership while engaging with the public on nuclear issues.

Claire Gallery-Strong, chairwoman of WiN Cumbria, said: “I cannot think of three more deserving nominees than Angie, Cathie and Amanda.

“They are each a formidable force striving to create gender balance in our county.”

WiN UK launched a dedicated Cumbria branch on International Women’s Day in May to recognise the part women have to play in the county’s nuclear sector.

It has become a powerful community of local organisations and individuals working together to achieve gender diversity within the Cumbrian workforce.

With over 100 members, it hosts training, mentoring services while building valuable networks in the area.

“They have made it their mission to ensure we progress in creating an inclusive and fair environment that helps attract, retain and build a diverse workforce of the future, for Cumbria and the UK,” said Claire.

“Amanda is one of our most inspiring advocates, not only as a powerful role model and successful leader, but also as an active ambassador and mentor, devoting her time to the next generation of nuclear professionals.”

“I am proud to work with them as part of the WiN Cumbria community, and extend my congratulations and good luck wishes to each of them.”

Currently, only 22 per cent of the UK’s nuclear industry is female, and this number declines significantly at senior levels, statistics that WiN UK is working to change.

The awards will be announced at the annual WiN UK conference in London on January 30.