Exeter College was honoured to host the Institute of Carpenter’s (IOC) latest Timber Industry College Hub event, graced by the presence of Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Gloucester, Royal Patron of the IOC. This landmark gathering marked the final milestone in a series of events that have connected industry leaders, educators, and aspiring carpenters and joiners across the UK.

Royal Endorsement

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 presence of HRH The Duchess of Gloucester underscored the necessity of equipping the next generation with the skills and knowledge required to excel in this essential trade.

Industry and Education: A Powerful Partnership

The Exeter College event opened with a warm welcome from John Laramy, Principal and Chief Executive of Exeter College, who stressed the importance of fostering links between education and industry. Geoff Rhodes, President of the IOC, then set the scene, emphasising the vital role that these events play in supporting the next generation of skilled professionals.

The event featured a lineup 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. Darren Murrish (CITB) provided an insightful overview of the employment landscape and career opportunities, while Dave O’Connor (Exeter College) shared a college perspective on how industry partnerships help shape student futures.

Key Highlights of the Event:

Leading professionals from across the timber sector provided in-depth insights into sustainability, technological advancements, and employment trends. Speakers included:

• Nick Boulton (Timber Development UK & Trussed Rafter Association), who explored UK raw material supply, sustainability, and the green agenda.
• Roly Ward (Medite/SmartPly), who discussed MDF and OSB production and technical developments.
• Neil Summers (American Hardwood Export Council – AHEC) shared perspectives on sustainable global forest resources and the international timber industry.
• John Bailey (Benbow Group – NAS) offered personal insights on career opportunities in the shopfitting and interiors industry.
• Ed Suttie (BRE) presented on new developments in the construction industry.
• Samantha Barnes (Historic England), who discussed conservation work and the importance of the heritage sector.

Students participated in interactive workshops, showcasing cutting-edge woodworking techniques for the Duchess and attending guests. 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.

Celebrating Success and Looking Forward

This event was the culmination of the latest series of ten IOC Timber Industry College Hub gatherings, which have taken place over the last two years at Lincoln College, Building Crafts College (Stratford, East London), West Suffolk College, Neath Port Talbot College (Wales), UHI Inverness (Scotland), New College Durham, Leeds College of Building, Newcastle & Stafford College Group, Northampton College, and Exeter College. These events have successfully provided woodworking learners and apprentices with crucial industry insights, career guidance, and direct engagement with professionals from the timber sector.

Geoff Rhodes, President of the IOC, reflected on the impact of the initiative:

“The IOC Timber Industry College Hub events have been a tremendous success, offering students across the UK an invaluable glimpse into the future of the timber industry. These hubs have demonstrated the power of partnerships between colleges and businesses, and Exeter College was the perfect venue to mark the conclusion of this national initiative.

“We are honoured to celebrate this milestone at Exeter College with our Royal Patron, The Duchess of Gloucester, and are already planning our next series of college events, which will continue our journey around the UK.”

John Laramy, Principal and Chief Executive said:

“Hosting this final IOC Timber Industry College Hub event has been an incredible honour for Exeter College and for me personally, as I started my career in the construction industry. I am delighted that we have been able to support this event.

“This initiative has provided our students with invaluable industry connections, hands-on experience, and insight into the future of sustainable timber and construction. 

“The presence of Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Gloucester further highlights the importance of equipping the next generation with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in this essential trade. 

“Strong partnerships between education and industry is key to our success and we will continue to ensure our learners are prepared for rewarding careers in carpentry and joinery.”

The success of the Timber Industry College Hub programme would not have been possible without the support of CITB and Timber Development UK (TDUK), whose collaboration has ensured that students receive relevant, industry-driven insights to help shape their careers.

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 Timber Industry College 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:

Institute of Carpenters
Website: www.instituteofcarpenters.com
Email: info@instituteofcarpenters.com