Conference for regional business leaders

Telford College is to host a major conference for regional business leaders on electrification and sustainability.

The event, being run in association with WMG University of Warwick, Telford Business Board, and Telford & Wrekin Council, will be held at the college’s Wellington campus on Thursday June 22.

Running from 4.30pm until 7pm, it will include presentations from a series of high-profile guest speakers, plus information displays, and a question-and-answer panel.

There will also be an opportunity to sign up for a new Telford Electrification Network Group (TenG) – designed to keep delegates connected and networked, and build on some of the debates that will be kick-started at the conference.

To reserve a place at the event, log onto www.eventbrite.com/e/electrification-sustainability-business-leaders-conference-tickets-620836868787

Organisers say it is an opportunity to join chief executives and business leaders in the manufacturing, engineering and sustainability sectors for insights into the future of electrification and sustainability.

Confirmed speakers include Professor Robin Clark, (dean of WMG and director of education), Professor David Greenwood (head of industrial engagement and chief executive of High Value Manufacturing Catapult,) and Dr Benjamin Silverstone (director of WMG skills centre).

More speakers and panellists are due to be announced over the coming weeks, covering topics such as future staff skills, grant opportunities, how electrification will impact on business, and creating sustainable manufacturing.

Janet Stephens, deputy chief executive at Telford College, said: “We’re really excited to be hosting this major conference, providing an innovative platform to discuss the challenges facing the economy, and bringing a leading university to Telford to support local businesses.”

Telford & Wrekin Council cabinet member, Councillor Lee Carter, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Telford College, WMG University of Warwick and the Telford Business Board for this important event.

“As a council, we are committed to creating a sustainable and vibrant community for our residents and businesses and aspire to achieve the goal of borough neutrality by 2030. This event will provide an excellent platform for business leaders to learn more about these crucial topics centred around a sustainable future and share their own experiences and ideas.

“We look forward to seeing many of our region’s leading manufacturing, engineering and sustainability businesses represented at this event, and to working with them to build a more sustainable and prosperous future for our community.”

Dr Silverstone said: "This event provides an excellent opportunity for business in and around Telford to see what opportunities there are to support their future aspirations. We are very pleased to be partnering with Telford College to commit to the future of the area."