#204 International Composites Summit: Introduction with Gemma Hardy during Advanced Engineering 2025

The International Composites Summit (ICS) enters a new era – and the industry is watching.In an exclusive conversation, Ilkay Özkisaoglu sat down with Gemma Hardy, Managing Director of The Fluency Business Group and the driving force behind ICS, to discuss what makes the 5th edition of ICS (2–3 December 2025 at The Drum Wembley) a strategic turning point for the global composites community.“ICS came straight out of Covid in 2021,” Hardy recalls. “We’re now moving to Wembley for our fifth edition – a bold step that reflects our ambition to create a truly international platform.”Hardy emphasizes that ICS is leaner, more agile, and laser-focused on industry needs:“We’ve moved away from big stands. This year, it’s all about equality and interaction – curated pods, high-level content, and networking that matters.”What’s on the Programme?More: https://lnkd.in/dHPWZJQaThe ICS Conference Forum is the intellectual heart of the summit, tackling critical challenges and opportunities across the composites value chain. Expect strategic presentations, provocative panels, and global voices, including:Chris Skinner (Owens Corning Composites) – Strategic Marketing & R\&D insightsGinger Gardiner (CompositesWorld) – Chairing a fiery sustainability debateMarcy Offner – Industry legend on communication and growthNEOM – Visionary perspectives on The Line and future construction in Saudi ArabiaAnd yes, automation and AI take center stage:Ilkay Özkisaoglu will chair the panel “Are We Automating People Out of Composites – or Not?”This discussion promises to be one of the most polarizing sessions of ICS 2025, exploring how digitalization and machine learning are reshaping skills, processes, and the human role in manufacturing.Why ICS MattersHardy is clear: “The UK has a significant part of the global supply chain. ICS is about putting the UK on the map while connecting international OEMs, Tier 1s, and innovators. It’s a hub for collaboration and growth.”The venue, The Drum at Wembley, offers world-class facilities and festive vibes:“Imagine discussing composites under glass ceilings with Christmas lights outside Wembley Stadium,” Hardy says. “It’s going to be magical.”Don’t Miss the Networking EveningOn 2 December, join the ICS Networking Event at The White Horse, Wembley – just steps from the summit venue.Limited to 100 tickets, this relaxed evening includes a welcome drink and festive Christmas buffet – the perfect way to unwind and build connections before the year ends.👉 Secure your spot now✅ Final Call: Register for ICS 2025 and be part of the conversation shaping the future of composites.🎟 Free entry for the summit | Register here https://lnkd.in/eYZSTiPB🍽 Networking Dinner | Book your ticket https://lnkd.in/eftymWecYouTube Episode: https://youtu.be/bhdGXsR1qtg