Society of Glass Technology Launches Mentoring Programme

The Society of Glass Technology (SGT, www.sgt.org) is pleased to announce the launch of its new Mentoring Programme, a Society-wide initiative designed to support professional development, knowledge sharing, and stronger connections across the global glass community. The programme was formally announced by Professor Angela Seddon, President of the SGT, during the Annual Conference on 7th September 2026. 

The SGT Mentoring Programme will provide members with the opportunity to participate as either mentors or mentees, creating valuable relationships that support career development, technical growth, leadership skills, and professional networking. 

The programme has been developed through collaboration between members of the Society's Early and Mid-Career Committee, Fellows, academics, and industry representatives. 

Unlike many mentoring schemes that focus on a single sector, the SGT programme is open to individuals working across the full breadth of the glass community, including glass science, glass manufacturing, glass engineering, research, design, heritage, education, and the glass arts. The initiative reflects the unique position of an organisation that brings together people from academia, industry, and the creative arts through a shared interest in glass. 

The mentorship programme has received support from:

• University of Nottingham
• University Leeds
• Sheffield Hallam University
• University of Sheffield
• Glass Technology Services Ltd
• Glass Futures Ltd
• FIC UK Ltd

Membership of the Society is open to anyone with an interest or professional involvement in glass, regardless of career stage or location. As a result, the mentoring programme will support both UK and international members, enabling participants to learn from a diverse network of experienced professionals working across different disciplines and countries. 

Speaking at the launch, Professor Angela Seddon said:

“It gives me great pleasure to announce the launch of the Society of Glass Technology’s Mentoring Programme.

“One of the greatest strengths of our Society is the breadth of experience, knowledge and creativity represented across our membership. From glass scientists and engineers to artists, manufacturers, educators and researchers, we have a truly diverse and international community.

“Through this new mentorship programme, we are aiming to strengthen the connections between generations of glass professionals, enabling experienced members to share their knowledge and insights while supporting others in their personal and professional development.”

The initiative forms part of a broader effort within the Society to increase engagement with students, early-career professionals, and emerging leaders throughout the international glass community, such as the new professional development workshop programme established by the Society's Early and Mid-Career Committee. The workshop programme was created to provide practical guidance, networking opportunities, and professional skills development for members at all career stages. The first workshop in the series took place during the SGT Annual Conference on 8th September 2026.

Applications to join the programme as a mentor or mentee will open shortly.

Individuals interested in participating are encouraged to become members of the Society of Glass Technology and register their interest through the Society's communication channels.

For further information about the Society of Glass Technology and the SGT Mentoring Programme, please visit www.sgt.org or contact the Society directly.