Exeter Professor appointed to key role at South Devon UTC

Professor Butler has more than 30 years of experience in the water sector as an internationally-leading researcher, teacher and consultant. In 2015, he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering.

He succeeds Professor Janice Kay CBE, Provost of the University of Exeter, in the influential role.

Speaking about the appointment, Professor Butler said: “I am delighted to have appointed to this important position at the South Devon UTC.  The College plays a key role in inspiring Devon’s young people to consider science and engineering as a career, and also the pivotal part higher education can play in achieving this.

“Exeter has an important part to play in raising the aspirations of local school students, and our extensive programme of outreach activity already demonstrates the opportunities offered through a university education to young people across the South West.  I am looking forward to offering my support and assistance in creating the science and engineering leaders of tomorrow right here in the region.”

The South Devon UTC, based in Newton Abbot, provides GCSEs, A Levels and Diploma programmes, as well as job-ready skills and preparation for careers in science, engineering, civil engineering and the environment. Employers help to shape the curriculum, provide challenge projects and work experience to ensure UTC leavers are ready for the world of work.

Professor Kay’s tenure as Chair of Governors corresponded with the successful opening of the College in September 2015. She said: “I am proud of all that South Devon UTC has already been able to achieve for young people in the region in terms of enhancing education provision and developing links with industry.  Support for SD UTC is a strategic priority for the University and so I am delighted to be able to pass on the role of Chair to Professor Butler who is a Fellow of the Royal College of Engineers and will be an outstanding advocate for the College.”

Ian Crews, Principal of South Devon UTC, said he was “delighted that Professor David Butler is to Chair the Board of Directors and Governors”.  He said: “Professor Janice Kay has been pivotal in the strategic development of this exciting and successful addition to South Devon’s education map, we will be eternally grateful for her help, her counsel and her strategic thought.  Professor Butler joins us at a time when we are growing rapidly and becoming very popular with students from across the region.  To be able to access his experience and knowledge will be an undoubted benefit to South Devon UTC.”