#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/dHPWZJQa

The 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
insights
Ginger Gardiner
(CompositesWorld) – Chairing a fiery
sustainability debate
Marcy Offner – Industry legend on communication
and growth
NEOM – Visionary perspectives on The Line and
future construction in Saudi Arabia

And 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 Matters

Hardy 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 Evening

On 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/eftymWec

YouTube Episode:
https://youtu.be/bhdGXsR1qtg