The Exeter Initiative for Science and Technology held their fifth quarterly event today at Exeter College's new Technology Centre at Monkerton. 110 business leaders gathered for the event, which celebrates the wealth of Science and Technology companies operating in Exeter and its sub-region. Attendees heard from four key speakers who are actively involved in ExIST, a sub-committee of Exeter Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Richard Atkins, Principal of Exeter College spoke about the College's contribution to developing and supporting a 21st Century STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Manufacturing) Workforce as well as giving attendees the opportunity to tour the new facilities.

Richard said, “We were delighted to host today's ExIST event for employers at our brand new Technology Centre at Monkerton, which houses our automotive, engineering and aerospace faculty. Exeter College are keen supporters of ExIST because we have a mutual interest in developing the skills necessary for young people and adults to be able to work effectively in the important and growing STEMM industries here in Devon.”
Richard's presentation was followed by Lewis Jones, Future Quality Obligations and R&D Manager at South West Water, who spoke about the way the company uses science in its day to day working and future planning.

Dave Pike, MD at Graphic PLC was up next, Dave gave an overview of how Graphic PLC have developed their products over their 44 years of trading continually developing printed circuit board technology for a wide range of industries including aviation, medicine and space!

Completing the presentation element of the event was Nick Ames, a Board Member of the Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership and Managing Director of Supacat Ltd. Nick reported on the Growing Funds scheme, which has recently secured funding allowing the first building to take shape at the Exeter Science Park.

Robert McIlwraith, Chair of ExIST said, “We were so fortunate to be able to hold today's ExIST Quarterly event at Exeter College's brand new Technology Centre and to have the benefit of listening to four great presentations. These events make it clear that there is so much excellent work going on in Science and Technology organisations based in and around Exeter who are also at the forefront in product and service innovation.”