Where Talent Meets Opportunity: IWMA Wire Education Award Winners 2026

Following the success of the 2024 programme, IWMA is proud to announce the 2026 IWMA Wire Education Award winners, reinforcing its commitment to education, knowledge sharing and future talent development across the wire and cable industry.

Open to professionals aged 18–30 from IWMA member companies, the Wire Education Award gives participants the opportunity to join a structured education and networking programme at wire Düsseldorf 2026, taking place from 13–17 April 2026.

Designed for those new to both the industry and international exhibitions, the programme offers an immersive introduction to the wire show and its global community.

2026 Award winners will benefit from:

• A Meet & Greet event on arrival with fellow awardees and representatives from IWMA
  • Complimentary access to wire Düsseldorf 2026
  • Guided tours and talks from IWMA member companies at the exhibition, covering key ferrous and non-ferrous technologies
  • Guided access to the 2026 ecoMetals Initiative, highlighting sustainability-focused innovations at the show
  • Attendance at the exclusive IWMA member networking event, offering valuable face-to-face industry connections
  • A social evening exploring Düsseldorf’s culture and cuisine
  • A certificate of participation, presented by IWMA and Messe Düsseldorf GmbH at the conclusion of the programme

The award package also includes four nights’ accommodation in Düsseldorf and a contribution towards travel costs.

 

With thanks to all those who submitted nominations, we are delighted to invite you to meet the following awardees from IWMA member companies who each bring a unique perspective, skillset and ambition to the programme:

 

Jamie Fagg – Development Engineer, BWE Ltd
“I work as a Development Engineer at BWE Ltd, where we design and supply continuous rotary extrusion machine lines for aluminium and copper products. My role involves designing and testing machine upgrades, developing tooling and running trials both in-house and on customer sites. I also travel internationally to install new machines and train operators, ensuring the equipment performs at its best.”

Christopher Blampied – Operations Controller, Cable Tapes UK Ltd
“As Operations Controller at Cable Tapes UK Ltd, I oversee the day-to-day production processes including taping, slitting and spooling. My responsibilities include managing customer orders, maintaining stock levels, coordinating logistics and ensuring documentation is completed accurately. I also support the company in maintaining its ISO 9001 quality certification.”

Enise Çevik – Sales Support Specialist, GMM Cable Machinery
“I work as a Sales Support Specialist at GMM Cable Machinery. My journey with the company began as an intern before progressing through engineering and planning roles after completing my Industrial Engineering degree. Today I support the sales team by tracking projects from order to shipment, reviewing contracts, coordinating export operations and managing letter of credit processes.”

Caitlin Kerfoot – Trainee Management Accountant, Pentre Group
“I joined Pentre Group in 2018 as an Accounts Assistant through an AAT apprenticeship scheme. Since then, my role has developed alongside my training, and I have been involved in the implementation and development of SAP within the business. I am now a Trainee Management Accountant and currently completing my CIMA qualification, which I expect to finish in 2026.”

Mathieu Schwoerer – Electronics & Software Engineer, AESA SA
“I work as an Electronics and Software Engineer in the R&D department at AESA SA, developing automated test equipment used to characterise complex data cables. My work focuses on the Metis software platform, system architecture and measurement automation. I integrate instruments such as vector network analysers with switching matrices and electronic control systems to create reliable, high-precision testing solutions.”

Justin Green – Trainee Engineer, Cape Gate (Pty) Ltd
“As a Trainee Engineer at Cape Gate, I have gained valuable experience in automation, production management, maintenance and process improvement within the steel fabrication environment. My work focuses on engineering projects including equipment commissioning, automation development and production improvements aimed at increasing efficiency and expanding manufacturing capabilities.”

Dominic Tasker-Meachen – Apprentice, Bekaert
“I joined Bekaert Doncaster three years ago as an apprentice and have gained experience across several departments, developing a strong understanding of the wire manufacturing process. During my training I have worked in process, technical and production areas, including heat treatment, galvanising, wire drawing and the die shop. This has given me a broad foundation of practical knowledge across the operation.”

 

Reflecting IWMA’s commitment to nurturing talent and supporting professional development, IWMA Insider will share highlights from the awardees’ wire Düsseldorf 2026 journey in future editions of the magazine – look out for updates.

 

Want to know more?

Watch our short video

to hear from previous awardees and get a glimpse of their experience at wire 2024.