NEMA: Aerospace Innovation Engineered in Rochdale

Posted by on 9 Sep 2026

From precision engineering to next-generation aerospace technology, NEMA is helping put Rochdale on the global advanced manufacturing map.                                             
                                                                                                                         
For almost 70 years, NEMA has been designing and manufacturing precision-engineered components from its Rochdale base. Today, the company is recognised as one of the UK’s leading specialists in high-performance aerospace electric motors, electromechanical actuators, integrated motion control systems and precision rotating machinery, supplying customers across the global aerospace and defence sectors.

Its engineering expertise spans the design, development, testing and manufacture of brushless DC motors, permanent magnet motor technology, high-speed electric machines, magnetic bearing systems, servo actuation, power electronics and intelligent control systems for safety-critical aerospace applications. From concept development and prototyping through to qualification, production and aftermarket support, NEMA provides customers with complete engineering solutions that help bring advanced aerospace technologies into service with confidence.

The business has developed expertise in electrification technologies that support the aviation sector’s transition towards more-electric and hybrid-electric aircraft, helping customers improve efficiency, reduce weight, increase reliability and lower environmental impact. Its technologies are deployed across a wide range of aerospace applications, including flight control systems, environmental control systems, propulsion, power generation and specialist defence platforms.

NEMA’s journey reflects the strength of Rochdale’s advanced manufacturing sector, combining decades of engineering excellence with a culture of innovation, collaboration and continuous investment.

Innovation driven by research and development

Innovation is embedded throughout NEMA’s business.

Working alongside customers, universities and government-backed innovation programmes, the company develops solutions to some of the aerospace sector’s most complex engineering challenges.

Recent research and development projects include high-speed electric propulsion systems for future aircraft, advanced magnetic bearing technology that enables frictionless, oil-free operation in demanding aerospace environments, next-generation motor and drive systems, and sustainable aircraft technologies designed to reduce fuel consumption, emissions and maintenance requirements.

Many of these projects are delivered through collaborative programmes with organisations including Innovate UK and the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI), enabling innovative ideas to progress from research into commercial application.

This commitment to research and development ensures NEMA remains at the forefront of aerospace innovation while supporting the UK’s transition towards cleaner, more efficient aviation technologies.

Turning innovation into commercial opportunity

Building on its engineering expertise, NEMA recently launched NEMA Systems Ltd, expanding its capabilities to deliver fully integrated aerospace motion control solutions.

Developed in collaboration with leading researchers at the University of Nottingham, the new business combines advanced electronics, control systems, software integration and precision manufacturing to provide customers with complete engineered systems rather than individual components.

The launch represents a significant milestone, strengthening NEMA’s position within global aerospace supply chains while creating opportunities for future growth, inward investment and high-value employment in Rochdale.

Supporting Rochdale’s innovation economy

NEMA is exactly the type of business helping shape the future of Rochdale’s economy.

Its work closely aligns with the ambitions of Atom Valley, Greater Manchester’s flagship innovation cluster, bringing together world class research, advanced manufacturing, materials science and sustainable technologies across Rochdale, Oldham and Bury. It offers a unique combination of development land, business space, skills investment and innovation facilities, with the potential to create up to 20,000 high quality jobs.

With internationally recognised engineering capability already established within the borough, businesses like NEMA demonstrate that Rochdale is not simply attracting future investment - it is already home to companies delivering world-leading innovation today.

Investing in people

Alongside investment in technology, NEMA continues to invest in skills.
The company has developed a strong apprenticeship programme, nurturing the next generation of highly skilled engineers while helping to address the wider skills challenges facing UK manufacturing.

By creating rewarding technical careers and investing in future talent, NEMA is helping ensure Rochdale retains the engineering expertise needed to support the industries of tomorrow.

A global business with Rochdale at its heart

Although its products support aerospace programmes around the world, NEMA remains proudly rooted in Rochdale.

Its continued investment in research, technology, people and manufacturing capability demonstrates the confidence that innovative businesses have in the borough and reinforces Rochdale’s growing reputation as a centre for advanced engineering excellence.

For Rochdale, NEMA represents far more than a successful manufacturer. It exemplifies the innovation, technical capability and collaborative approach that are driving the borough’s economic growth and strengthening its position as one of the UK’s emerging hubs for advanced manufacturing.

As Atom Valley gathers momentum and the innovation ecosystem continues to expand, businesses like NEMA are helping ensure Rochdale’s future is being engineered here.

Think you know Rochdale? Think again.

Behind many of Rochdale’s manufacturing businesses are world-leading technologies, global supply chains and pioneering research that are shaping industries across the globe.

NEMA is one of many innovative companies demonstrating why Rochdale is fast becoming a destination for advanced manufacturing, engineering excellence and industrial innovation, and why businesses, investors and research partners are increasingly looking to the borough as a place where innovation is designed, developed and delivered.

Looking to grow your business?

NEMA’s success demonstrates what is possible when ambitious businesses combine engineering excellence with innovation, collaboration and the right support. Whether you’re an established manufacturer, an innovative SME or an investor exploring new opportunities, Rochdale offers the environment, expertise and partnerships to help your business succeed.

The Rochdale Development Agency (RDA) works with businesses at every stage of their growth journey, providing tailored support to help companies innovate, secure investment, access funding opportunities, develop skills, find commercial premises and connect with research partners and supply chain networks. Through initiatives such as ATOM Valley and the Sustainable Materials & Manufacturing Centre (SMMC), businesses can also benefit from a growing innovation ecosystem designed to accelerate productivity, collaboration and sustainable growth.

If you’re looking to grow, innovate and thrive in Rochdale, we’d love to hear from you.

Get in touch with the Rochdale Development Agency at info@investinrochdale.co.uk to discover how we can help your business unlock its next stage of growth.