Skills & Education | 11
Campaigning for timber sector education, training and skills development
ATTENDS TIC HUB EVENT IOC’S ROYAL PATRON The latest IOC Timber Industry College Hub event was held at Exeter College
• Neil Summers from the American Hardwood Export Council, who shared perspectives on sustainable
global forest resources and the international timber industry.
• John Bailey, from Benbow Group – NAS, who offered personal insights on career opportunities in the
shopfitting and interiors industry.
• Ed Suttie, from the BRE, who presented on new developments in the construction industry.
• Samantha Barnes, from Historic England, who discussed conservation work and the importance of
Above: Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Gloucester, Royal Patron of the IOC, attended the Timber Industry College Hub event PHOTO: EXETER COLLEGE/ROB COOMBE
Exeter College hosted the Institute of Carpenter’s (IOC) latest Timber Industry College (TIC) Hub event, in the presence of Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Gloucester, Royal Patron of the IOC. The gathering on March 27 marked the final milestone in a series of events that have connected industry leaders, educators, and aspiring carpenters and joiners across the UK. The royal visit and the success of this event highlighted Exeter College’s commitment to preparing students for rewarding careers in the timber industry, while promoting sustainable practices that will shape the future of construction and forestry.
The event opened with a welcome from John Laramy, principal and chief executive of Exeter College, who stressed the importance of fostering links between education and industry. Geoff Rhodes, IOC president, then set the scene, emphasising the role these events play in supporting the next generation of professionals. The event featured a line-up of industry expert
speakers and practical demonstrations by students, and covered key themes such as sustainable forestry, the evolution of timber in construction, and the variety of employment pathways in the trade. Speakers included:
• Nick Boulton, from Timber Development UK (TDUK) and Trussed Rafter Association, who explored UK raw
material supply, sustainability, and the green agenda.
• Roly Ward from MEDITE/SMARTPLY, who discussed MDF and OSB production and technical
developments.
Supporting the Confederation of Timber Industries’ (CTI) Skills & Education initiative
the heritage sector.
Students participated in interactive workshops, showcasing cutting-edge woodworking techniques. Axminster Tools, Reisser UK, CITB, and IOC also provided hands-on displays. The event also gave students direct access to potential employers and industry mentors, bridging the gap between education and real-world career opportunities. The IOC Mentoring Champions initiative was a central theme, reinforcing the importance of experienced professionals guiding the next generation of carpenters and joiners. This event was the culmination of the latest series
of 10 IOC TIC Hub gatherings, which have taken place over the last two years. These events have successfully provided woodworking learners and apprentices with crucial industry insights, career guidance, and direct engagement with professionals from the timber sector. Looking ahead, the IOC is dedicated to supporting its members and new starters coming into the sector, while strengthening the vital links between industry and education. The IOC TIC Hub events have laid a strong foundation for continued collaboration, helping to secure the future of skilled workers in the carpentry and joinery sectors. ■
For further details on the IOC and future events, please contact: Website:
www.instituteofcarpenters.com Email:
info@instituteofcarpenters.com
www.ttjonline.com | May/June 2025 | TTJ
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