Elizabeth Bonfield will perform the WAI clockwinding ceremony on October 3 at the Wire Association International (WAI) headquarters in Madison, Connecticut. She brings extensive experience and represents the U.K. wire and manufacturing industry.
Industry Leadership Background
Bonfield has held director-level roles across the engineering, manufacturing, and construction sectors for more than 20 years. She previously served as managing director of three vocational awarding bodies, where she created training and qualification opportunities for both individuals and businesses.
Currently, she works as an executive coach and trainer for Skills 4 UK (https://www.skills4uk.co.uk), a consultancy focused on diversity and inclusion initiatives.
Workforce Development Contributions
Bonfield has led major initiatives to address skills shortages in engineering and advanced manufacturing. She chaired a steering group that introduced a Skills 4 program to improve retention and career progression, particularly for women in the industry.
She also organizes the National Metals Apprentice of the Year awards on behalf of the Worshipful Company of the Tin Plate alias Wire Workers, continuing her commitment to workforce development.
Clockwinding Tradition
The WAI clockwinding ceremony honors a long-standing tradition that celebrates collaboration between the U.K. and U.S. wire industries. The most recent clockwinder, Martin Thacker, completed his third ceremony in 2022 after two virtual appearances in 2020 and 2021.
Historical Significance
The tradition began in 1948 when John Rigby and Sons, Ltd. of Manchester, England, presented a 400-day grandfather clock to WAI. The gift recognized the support of the U.S. wire industry during World War II.
The clock, housed at WAI headquarters (https://www.wirenet.org), features a handcrafted mahogany case and an engraved dial with the message: “Time can neither be kept nor destroyed.”
Continuing the Tradition
Each year, a U.K. industry representative travels to the United States to participate in the ceremony. The event reinforces the strong relationship and shared history between the two industries.
Membership Opportunities
Professionals can expand their involvement through a WAI chapter membership for $15 per year, gaining access to regional networking and educational benefits.
Visit: https://www.wirenet.org/members/chapter-network
Or contact: membership@wirenet.org
