What is an IfM Masterclass?

The Institute for Manufacturing (IfM) Theatre share insights from the University of Cambridge on key challenges and opportunities in manufacturing and engineering. Across two days, sessions explore sustainability, innovation, industrial safety, digital skills, and diversity & inclusion.

As the Knowledge Partner for Smart Manufacturing Week 2025, IfM hosted a series of sessions providing practical approaches to tackling industry challenges—whether it was shaping strategy, improving sustainability, or developing future skills.

Topics included the journey to net zero, the future of industrial safety, the role of digital skills in SMEs, and how to foster inclusive leadership in manufacturing.

IfM Agenda at Smart Manufacturing Week 2025

Loading

Why Attend?

Through discussions with your peers, and guided by an IfM Industrial Practitioner, you will have the opportunity to explore and work through challenges in a supportive and open environment.

Our Industrial Practitioners have extensive expertise in supporting organisations across many sectors, and so are ideally placed to answer any questions you have and unpick the problems you are facing.

Disclaimer:

Each IfM Masterclass is organised by IfM Engage at the IfM, University of Cambridge, and is free to attend as part of the Smart Factory Expo at Smart Manufacturing Week. The IfM’s mission is to manufacture a better world through the impact of our research, education and practice activities in the manufacturing community. To support this objective, we are only accepting bookings from manufacturing and technology organisations for the Masterclasses - we will not be accepting bookings from consultants.

Author Tim Minshall at #SMW25

Your Life Is Manufactured, a new book by Tim Minshall, Head of the Institute for Manufacturing (IfM), is now available. In a fascinating exploration of the manufacturing world, Tim illuminates the complex and often unseen journeys of the products that shape our daily lives.

Described as 'Fascinating' by The Times and 'Well-observed and enjoyably written' by the Financial Times, this book provides an exploration of how manufacturing has shaped our world and can hold the key to a sustainable and equitable future.

Attendees met Tim onsite at Smart Manufacturing Week!

book

Spotlight Session: Women in Manufacturing - Inspiring Inclusive Leadership

Discover how inclusive leadership can transform the manufacturing sector by attracting and retaining diverse talent while driving business success. This insightful session, hosted by the Women in Manufacturing UK initiative, brings together a panel of industry experts, academics, and practitioners to explore practical strategies for fostering a truly inclusive workplace.
IfM WiM