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.
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’Conner (Exeter College) shared a college perspective on how industry partnerships help shape student futures.
