Meet the Industrial Technologies KTM

The Innovate UK KTN Meet the Industrial Technology & Manufacturing Team article series is an opportunity to find out more about the specialists within the team, and how they can help you find funding competitions as well as support you in developing your technology and organisation’s capabilities.

This month, Sven Knowles, Industrial Technologies Knowledge Transfer Manager (KTM) at Innovate UK KTN, shares what his work involves.

What does your job role involve?

“I focus on networking with organisations to explore ways Innovate UK KTN can support them, help businesses to discover valuable funding opportunities, and facilitate the creation of collaborative partnerships. I assist organisations in technology areas including power electronics, motors/generators, high frequency electronics (including 5G), high frequency communications, all of which have verticals in industrial technology, manufacturing, satellite communications, radar, agri-tech, off highway mobility, robotics, and 5G communications.”

What does a typical day/week look like at KTN?

“Understanding new innovative technologies and the opportunities they may bring to the UK is my top priority. I regularly speak with Power Electronics, Machines and Drives (PEMD) companies that are involved with the Driving the Electric Revolution programme to see how their technology can be developed and scaled throughout the country and globally.”

What’s your biggest priority at the moment?

“My biggest priority is to support industrial partners that are working on power electronics, motors/generators, and future aircraft technologies to develop UK supply chains, capitalise on their innovation, and drive forward net zero solutions that benefit everyone.”

What upcoming technology advancements/innovations are you excited about in your sector/industry/area of work?

“Providing specialist advice that enables organisations to build innovative technologies as well as futuristic systems to electrify the UK and reduce carbon emissions.”

Tell us about something exciting you’re working on?

“Working on the Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund (ISCF) Driving the Electric Revolution Challenge to develop Power Electronics, Machines and Drives (PEMD) technologies. This programme represents an investment of up to £80 million over 4 years and is set up to help UK businesses seize the opportunities presented by the transition to a low carbon economy.”

What is your previous work experience?

“I previously worked as a Technology Analyst for several Venture Capital investors.”

Contact us

Make sure to visit the manufacturing as well as industrial technology sections of the Innovate UK KTN website to find out more about how the team can support your business.