The University of Warwick recently welcomed representatives from the National Federation of Builders (NFB) for a focused visit highlighting cutting-edge research, skills development, and innovation in sustainable construction and advanced manufacturing.
Hosted by Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG), University of Warwick, the visit brought NFB guests including National Chair Mark Wakeford and Board Director Rob Wright to key research facilities across campus, including the International Manufacturing Centre (IMC) and the Advanced Materials Manufacturing Centre (AMMC). The visit showcased Warwick’s leadership in decarbonisation, construction innovation, and the future skills required within the UK’s built environment sector.
The delegation was welcomed by John Bleasdale, Associate Head of Philanthropy, before participating in a series of presentations led by senior academics and engineers, including:
Professor David Greenwood, CEO, WMG High Value Manufacturing Catapult & Professor of Advanced Propulsion Systems
Dr Russell Hall, Principal Engineer
Shubham Sharma, Principal Engineer – Circular Economy & Sustainable Manufacturing
Helen Ure, Head of Skills Centre
During the presentations, Warwick experts briefed NFB representatives on current research into low-carbon construction technologies, sustainable materials, and the development of future-ready manufacturing processes. Discussions also explored pathways for collaboration to support industry-wide net-zero ambitions and skills transition.
The visit included guided tours of major research laboratories, such as:
- The Centre for Imaging and Metrology, showcasing advanced diagnostic and measurement capabilities
- The Advanced Steel Research Centre
- High-temperature processing, characterisation, microscopy, and non-destructive testing (NDT) laboratories
- These facilities represent some of the UK’s most advanced environments for materials innovation and next-generation manufacturing research.
Speaking about the visit, NFB Chair Mark Wakeford said “It was a great opportunity for members of the National Federation of Builders and CE Midlands to see firsthand the facilities and the support that Warwick Manufacturing Group could offer the construction industry. Whilst businesses may not think that universities are an obvious point of support, two things were very evident. The first was the range of support that Warwick University could offer. When our working environment is changing so rapidly, it is very useful to have experts who can provide unusual support in technical and training arenas. The second was their focus on both large and smaller companies. After their success in supporting the automotive supply chain, it was heartening to see the university’s recognition that the vast majority of construction businesses are small, with different needs and their appetite to help. All who came on the tour left impressed and aware of the resilience on offer.”
The University of Warwick and NFB will continue exploring opportunities to partner on innovation, workforce development, and applied research that supports the UK’s transformation toward cleaner, smarter, and more resilient infrastructure.
