Our Founding Story
The Composites Leadership Forum (CLF) was established in 2015 as a strategic response to the growing need for a unified voice and coordinated approach to advancing the UK composites industry. Born from the recognition that collaboration was essential for global competitiveness, CLF brought together industry leaders, academic institutions, and government bodies.
Our founding was driven by a shared vision: to position the UK as a world leader in composite materials technology and manufacturing, creating sustainable economic growth and maintaining the country's competitive edge in advanced manufacturing.
The Need for CLF
Prior to CLF's establishment, the UK composites sector faced several challenges:
- Fragmented industry representation
- Limited coordination between research and industry
- Inconsistent skills development pathways
- Underutilization of composite materials across sectors
- Global competition from established composites hubs
Our Journey
Initial Concept Development
Industry leaders and government representatives begin discussions about creating a unified body to represent the UK composites sector and address fragmentation issues.
Official Launch
Composites Leadership Forum officially launched with founding members from major aerospace, automotive, and materials companies, alongside leading academic institutions.
Strategic Roadmap Published
Release of the first UK Composites Strategy, outlining key growth areas, technology priorities, and investment requirements for the sector.
National Composites Centre Established
Launch of the National Composites Materials Centre as a flagship facility for collaborative R&D, providing state-of-the-art testing and development capabilities.
Sustainability Initiative
Introduction of comprehensive sustainability program focusing on recyclable composites, circular economy principles, and environmental impact reduction.
International Expansion
Establishment of international partnerships and expansion of global reach, positioning UK composites expertise on the world stage.
Strategic Focus Areas
Innovation & Research
Driving cutting-edge research and development in composite materials, manufacturing processes, and applications across multiple sectors.
Skills Development
Building a skilled workforce through education programs, training initiatives, and career development pathways in composites technology.
Industry Growth
Supporting business growth, investment, and market development to strengthen the UK's position in the global composites market.
Governance Structure
Executive Board
Provides strategic direction and oversight for CLF activities and initiatives.
- Chair: Dr. Sarah Chen (Aerospace Composites Ltd)
- Vice Chair: Prof. Michael Roberts (University of Advanced Materials)
- Industry Representatives from key sectors
- Academic and Research Institution leaders
Technical Committees
Specialized groups focusing on specific technology areas and industry applications.
- Materials Development Committee
- Manufacturing Processes Committee
- Sustainability and Recycling Committee
- Standards and Certification Committee
Working Groups
Task-focused groups addressing specific challenges and opportunities.
- Skills and Education Working Group
- Supply Chain Development Group
- International Trade and Partnerships
- Digitalization and Industry 4.0
Our Impact
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main driver behind creating CLF?
The primary driver was the recognition that the UK composites industry needed a unified voice and coordinated strategy to compete effectively in global markets. Before CLF, the sector was fragmented with limited coordination between industry, academia, and government.
How has CLF evolved since its founding?
CLF has evolved from an initial concept to a comprehensive industry body with multiple strategic initiatives. We've expanded our focus from basic industry representation to include specific programs in innovation, skills development, sustainability, and international collaboration.
What are CLF's biggest achievements to date?
Key achievements include establishing the National Composites Materials Centre, developing the UK Composites Strategy, creating industry-wide skills programs, facilitating over £150 million in research investment, and helping grow the UK composites sector by 45% since our founding.
How is CLF funded?
CLF operates through a combination of membership fees, government grants for specific initiatives, project funding from research councils, and income from training programs and events. This diversified funding model ensures our independence and sustainability.
Be Part of Our Continuing Story
Join the Composites Leadership Forum and contribute to shaping the future of the UK composites industry