Hi Tech success at MTI 12
Over 300 delegates and 30 exhibitors gathered at the Riviera Centre on Thursday 18 October to take part in the second annual event by the Torbay Hi-Tech Forum – MTI 12.
Delegates at MTI 12 had the chance to network with leading companies from Torbay’s growing Hi-Tech sector and the south west area and learn more about learned more about the economic prospects in the bay.
Following an introduction from Mayor of Torbay, Gordon Oliver, delegates at the event listened to presentations on relevant economic topics from James Clipson - EU Business Engagement Manager in the Technology Strategy Board providing an update on opportunities in the European Market; Tim Jones - Chair of the Heart of the South West LEP talking about how LEPs can support new innovation; Felicity Burch - Economist from EEF Policy Team focussing on driving growth and partnership with industry; John Rubidge - International Sectors and Services Manager, UKTI on world markets; Ewan McClymont - Director of Corporate Development, Bishop Fleming on finance, grants and funding for businesses; Denis Parson - Training and HR Manager at Centrax talking about the proposed South Devon University Technology College and why this is good news for business; and Adam Breeze – The Breeze Strategy, on global opportunities and increasing competition.
In addition to the speaker programme and over 30 exhibitors from the sector, delegates, MTI12 presented delegates with 6 breakout seminars to choose from, on various topics ranging form European funding to social media and digital channels.
Visitors at the Riviera International Centre also tested a helicopter flight simulator, while SEMTA (Sector Skills Council for Science, Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies) and the National Apprenticeship Service had students involved from local schools, colleges and universities to try out their engineering skills by designing prototype models and racing their machines in the arena, which was featured on BBC spotlight.
MTI 12 was organised by the TDA on behalf of the Torbay Hi Tech Forum, and supported by headline sponsor Bishop Fleming and silver sponsors Spirent Communications, Elektron Technology and South Devon College.
