Training Fundamentals: A New Way to Learn, Connect and Experience the Industry

Gone are the days of boring fundamentals events where learning meant sitting in a room from start to finish, watching slides on a screen and counting down to the next coffee break. With Training Fundamentals, IWMA is introducing a new way of delivering core industry knowledge – combining structured learning, hands-on experience, and valuable networking opportunities.

The concept behind Training Fundamentals is simple: take key areas of the wire and cable industry and give each one a full day to itself. Each event will focus on a specific topic area – for example, “Wire Rope Manufacture and Application Fundamentals”, “Non-ferrous Wire Drawing and Stranding Fundamentals”, “Ferrous Wire Rod Fundamentals”, and many more – allowing delegates to fully immerse themselves in that subject rather than skimming across multiple themes.

Each event is dedicated to a single area of the industry, such as non-ferrous wire drawing and stranding, taking delegates back to basics and working through the full range of core topics within that discipline. It supports both experienced professionals seeking a refresher and those moving into a new technical area.

But this isn’t confined to the classroom. One of the most exciting elements of the scheme is the chance to see theory brought to life. Delegates will spend the morning learning and then head into the factory environment for tours hosted by IWMA member companies – turning knowledge into something you can see, hear and experience first-hand.

To ensure Training Fundamentals is accessible to as many people as possible, the events will also offer a hybrid attendance option. Those unable to attend in person will be able to join remotely from their home or office, ensuring they can still benefit from the learning experience.

Following each Training Fundamentals event, delegates will be invited to complete a short questionnaire. Upon completion, they will receive a certificate confirming their participation, which can be shared with employers as evidence of professional development.

And because learning doesn’t stop when the sessions end, every Training Fundamentals event includes an evening networking gathering as part of the ticket price. It’s the perfect chance to relax, continue conversations from the day, and connect with peers from across the industry.

The first two Training Fundamentals events will launch early 2026, and this is just the beginning. We’re excited to build on this new format, breathe fresh life into a long-standing event, and create training experiences that are practical, engaging, and genuinely valuable for the wire and cable industry.