A New Regional Branch to See in the New Year
The turn of the year saw the first of what we hope will be several exciting regional branch announcements this year: we’re thrilled to introduce a significant addition to the Institute of Corrosion (ICorr) family – the Wales and South-West Regional Branch.
This new regional branch is set to host its inaugural event and Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 21st March 2024, marking a significant milestone in our continuous effort to expand our reach and impact across the UK. You’re all welcome to attend – read on for more information.
Reaching Out to a Region of Diverse Industries
The Wales and South-West region is home to a diverse range of business sectors, from aerospace, chemical plants, and construction products to energy production, inspection and analytical services, oil and gas, petrochemicals, renewables, and steel and metal manufacturing/recycling.
This diversity not only underlines the economic vibrancy of the region, but also highlights the need for greater knowledge, experience, and collaboration to overcome the complex corrosion challenges that these industries face.
In recognition of this, the Wales and South-West Regional Branch has been established with a clear mandate to develop and share knowledge regarding corrosion and its prevention, fostering a collaborative environment that brings together industry and academia.
Uniting Industry and Academia
The branch is also ideally positioned to bridge the gap between the region’s diverse industries and leading universities. This synergy is aimed at not only sharing existing knowledge, but also sparking new ideas and innovation for corrosion prevention. By doing so, the branch is set to become a pivotal force in both the practical and creative aspects of corrosion management.
A Focus on Future Engineers
A crucial aspect of the regional branch’s mission is the development of future generations of corrosion and materials engineers.
Through targeted presentations from industry professionals and academics, the branch aims to address local industry needs and challenges within the broad subject of corrosion. Moreover, the branch is committed to promoting learning and sharing experiences among experts within the region, thereby enriching the professional community.
Yearly Programme of Events
The branch has ambitious plans to define a yearly programme of events that includes:
- Meetings
- Guest visits
- Speakers
- Workshops
- Roadshows
Not only will these present ideal opportunities for industry professionals to broaden and deepen their professional networks, but we also aim to engage undergraduates, schools, apprenticeship programs and colleges, in our goal to encourage interest in corrosion and its prevention from a wide audience.
Your Invitation to the Inaugural Event and AGM
The first official event and inaugural AGM promises to be a landmark occasion. Scheduled for 21st March from 12 pm to 2 pm with lunch provided, the event will feature presentations on Microbiologically Induced Corrosion – a critical topic given its impact across several sectors represented in the region.
Speakers include Director of Consultancy Services at R-TECH Sarah Bagnall and Dr Gareth Williams, Consultancy Services Manager of ECHA Microbiology, whose insights will be invaluable.
The event will also include a laboratory tour, providing attendees with a unique opportunity to see corrosion science in action.
Register Now to Join Us
Located at R-TECH Materials, Testing House, Kenfig Industrial Estate, Margam, Port Talbot, SA13 2PE, this event is not to be missed.
Registration will close on Monday, 18th March.
If you are interested in attending or becoming part of this forward-looking and vibrant new regional branch, please reach out to us at swchair@icorr.org for further information.
A Note from the ICorr President
ICorr President Stephen Tate is enthusiastic for the future of this new branch, saying, “The establishment of the Wales and South-West Regional Branch of ICorr is a testament to our commitment to advancing the field of corrosion science and engineering.
“Through this new branch, we look forward to fostering a community of professionals and academics who are dedicated to tackling corrosion challenges and contributing to the sustainable development of the region’s industries. I’m convinced that its membership will be instrumental in making a lasting impact in the field of corrosion prevention.”