100 Years of ICI: Teesside – Past, Present & Future

Mark the ICI centenary with industry leaders exploring Teesside's industrial legacy and next century of opportunity. On 7 December 2026, exactly 100 years after the formation of Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI), the Institution of Mechanical Engineers invites you to join a special centenary event celebrating Teesside's extraordinary industrial heritage and exploring the opportunities that will shape its future. Few organisations have left a greater mark on Teesside than ICI. From the development of the chemical and process industries at Billingham and Wilton, to the generations of engineers, scientists, technicians and skilled professionals who helped build one of the world's most significant industrial regions, the legacy of ICI remains woven into the fabric of Teesside today. But this event is about far more than history. As Teesside enters a new era of industrial transformation, major investments in low-carbon technologies, carbon capture, hydrogen, sustainable energy, advanced manufacturing and process industries are once again placing the region at the forefront of engineering innovation. Join industry leaders, engineers, students and members of the community as we reflect on the achievements of the past, examine the realities of today, and explore the opportunities that could define Teesside's next century. Featured Keynote Speakers Karen Askwith Managing Director, Tioxide Materials Limited Scott Taylor Project Director & Advisor, Storelectric Mike Stephen Head of Technical, Northern Endurance Partnership Together, our speakers will provide unique perspectives on Teesside's industrial journey, current transformation and future potential. The evening will conclude with a panel discussion: "Past, Present & Future: What Will Teesside's Next 100 Years Look Like?" To help bring Teesside's industrial heritage to life, Teesside Archives will be exhibiting a selection of material from its significant ICI collection. Holding one of the most comprehensive archives of Imperial Chemical Industries' Billingham and Wilton operations, the collection contains historic photographs, engineering records, plant drawings, reports and documents that chronicle more than a century of innovation, industrial development and the people who helped shape Teesside. Event Programme 16:15 – 17:00 Registration, networking and refreshments 17:00 – 17:15 Welcome and opening remarks The significance of the ICI centenary and Teesside's engineering legacy 17:15 – 18:55 Keynote presentations and panel discussion 18:55 – 19:00 Closing remarks and vote of thanks Why Attend? ✅ Celebrate the 100th anniversary of one of Britain's most influential industrial organisations ✅ Hear from leaders involved in shaping the future of industry, energy and infrastructure ✅ Explore how Teesside is positioning itself as a centre for innovation, decarbonisation and industrial growth ✅ Network with engineers, industry professionals, academics and students from across the region ✅ Be part of a conversation about the next chapter in Teesside's engineering story Who Should Attend? This event is open to: • Engineers and technical professionals • Manufacturing, process and energy industry representatives • Students and early-career engineers • Former ICI employees and their families • Local history and heritage enthusiasts • Anyone interested in Teesside's industrial past, present and future Booking Information Attendance is free of charge, but places are limited and advance booking is essential. Complimentary refreshments will be available, along with dedicated networking opportunities before the event. One hundred years after the creation of ICI, the name may have largely disappeared from Teesside's skyline, but its engineering DNA continues to shape the region's future. Join us as we celebrate a remarkable legacy and explore the innovations, investments and opportunities that could define the next 100 years.