As an Institute we have always been very keen in supporting our younger members, both students and young professionals, as they begin to consider and seek out career options or commence their professional lives within the sector that CILT covers in its widest sense.

Many of us, the old guard, within this profession stumbled into it by chance without realising what it was and what it offered, but notably many of us have remained because we thrive on the variety of challenges and experiences that we face as practitioners.

You have made an educated and informed choice to study in this profession. The skills and abilities you develop in relation to your course can help lead our industry into new territories and really drive home the importance and the success our sector really does hold.

We have a large, active and energetic group of volunteers and staff that appreciate and fully understand the importance of our student membership base, which equates to approximately 25% of our total membership. You are invaluable to the future and we at CILT are reaching out to you to demonstrate your value, your worth and your importance as the Institute evolves to become a more modern, fresh and relevant professional body.

At CILT we recognise the issues of skills and staff shortages and the need to raise awareness of our sector. It is vital we encourage and promote the industry to our students as it is a thriving and innovative industry that remains fundamental to our society. We need to raise awareness of the wide variety of opportunities that the industry represents and the range of occupations available to ensure we can counter these skills gaps.

I would ask you to recognise the importance you can all play in resolving these challenges and as you move into the profession to be passionate and engaging in supporting what will become your industry.

Becoming and remaining part of the CILT and its community of professionals will work in parallel with your studies to help you develop the industry and support its future developments. 

I look forward to welcoming you to this vibrant industry and to the Institute.