Over 300 guests gathered at Cedar Court Hotel in Huddersfield, on Friday 17th April to celebrate five decades of excellence in skills development for the UK textiles and advanced manufacturing sector.
An industry-owned, not-for-profit training provider at the heart of the UK’s textile manufacturing sector has marked 50 years of shaping the industry’s workforce with a landmark awards ceremony.
The Textile Centre of Excellence (TCoE) hosted its 50th Anniversary Awards Ceremony on Friday 17th April at the Cedar Court Hotel, bringing together over 200 business leaders and distinguished guests, alongside 100 apprentices and learners recognised for their achievements.
Founded in 1976 during a period of significant transformation in British manufacturing, TCoE has played a pivotal role in sustaining and strengthening the UK textiles and advanced manufacturing sector. The organisation is uniquely industry-owned by more than 100 fashion and textile manufacturers across the region, ensuring its training remains directly aligned with real-world employer needs and the realities of modern production.
Over the past 50 years, TCoE has trained more than 6,000 apprentices and supported tens of thousands of individuals through professional and specialist courses, helping to develop the skilled workforce behind one of the UK’s most historic and globally recognised industries. From new entrants to experienced professionals moving into technical and leadership roles, its impact spans every stage of a career.
Shahban Aziz, Managing Director of the Textile Centre of Excellence, said:
“Reaching our 50th anniversary is a proud milestone for everyone connected to TCoE. What sets us apart is that we are owned by industry, for industry – working in partnership with more than 100 employers to develop the skills the sector needs, both now and in the future. This celebration was about recognising the people behind that success – our learners, our employer partners and the wider manufacturing community. Their achievements are what the evening was all about.”
He continued:
“Looking ahead, the Textile Centre of Excellence is accelerating its impact through an ambitious programme of growth, building on partnerships with organisations including Bentley Motors to expand apprenticeship provision and grow its membership base across the UK textile sector. At the same time, new collaborations with leading universities will create clear progression routes into higher education while supporting innovation in advanced and sustainable textiles. With a strong focus on Industry 5.0, the Centre is also introducing training in artificial intelligence, digital manufacturing and smart technologies to help businesses remain competitive, alongside continued investment in employer-led provision and green innovation – ensuring skills, sustainability and technology remain central to the sector’s future.”
Based in Outlane, Huddersfield, the not-for-profit organisation delivers apprenticeships in textiles, advanced upholstery and laboratory technician roles, alongside Skills Bootcamps, leadership and management training, health and safety courses and wider industry engagement programmes.
With 50 years of industry expertise behind it, the Textile Centre of Excellence continues to expand its provision, strengthen employer partnerships and develop the skilled workforce needed to support the UK’s Industrial Strategy and global competitiveness. As demand for skills, innovation and sustainability grows across the manufacturing sector, TCoE remains focused on developing the next generation of talent and supporting the long-term resilience of UK textiles and advanced manufacturing.