Monday 13^th November 1961, Court House Hotel, Dudley

Six industry professionals met to discuss the idea of forming an association of like-minded people in the refractories industry.

It was generally agreed that the principle was sound. The aims of the Institute and the grades of Membership were agreed, and a draft application form and certificate of membership were drawn up.

Monday 11^th December 1961

Those present at the inaugural meeting became the founder members and IRE formation committee. A number of other professionals were invited to join them and form the embryo of membership. The Institute of Refractories Engineers was born.

1962

The First AGM was held at the Court House Hotel Dudley. Present were the original formation committee, 64 members and 7 prospective members.

And the rest, as they say, is history