Industrial Technology Systems Joins Chemicals Northwest

Industrial Technology Systems Ltd (ITS) has become a member of Chemicals Northwest, the industry-led cluster support organisation, which drives strategic and long-term development for the region’s chemistry-using industries.

Formerly the North West Chemical Initiative and re-branded in 2004, Chemicals Northwest is based in Runcorn, Cheshire, at the heart of the UK’s largest chemical manufacturing region, encompassing in excess of 430 manufacturing sites with more than 43,000 skilled professionals.

It works in partnership with chemical manufacturers and users, as well as specialist service suppliers such as ITS, universities, higher and further education institutions, and training providers.  It has close links with the Royal Society of Chemistry, Institute of Chemical Engineers, Chemical Industries Association, Department for Business, Enterprise & Regulatory Reform, Department for Education and Skills, and UK Trade & Investment.

Chemicals Northwest is funded by the North West Development Agency.  It echoes the Chemistry Leadership Council’s vision by identifying its principal activities as equipping the current and future workforce with 21st century skills, and advancing sustainable working methods for future development, through resource efficiency, continuous improvement and understanding legislation, whilst also raising the industry’s profile and highlighting innovation.

ITS will be able to access a wide range of benefits through its membership, benefiting from Chemicals Northwest’s major participation in key industry forums such as the Chemicals Sector Skills & Productivity Alliance (SSPA), North West Science Council Chemicals sub-team, the Northern Liaison Group of chemical cluster organisations from Yorkshire & Humber, North East and Scotland, as well as key advisory boards.

The organisation has recently been successful in attracting funding for two projects that will substantially benefit the region’s companies:  the REACH Regional Integrated Support Programme, which offers subsidised information and services to over 100 firms, and the Plant Improvement Forum, which will offer PICME expertise to industry at an affordable price.