Leading leather chemical company awards student Louise McKay with prestigious award

A leather student at the University of Northampton’s Institute of Creative Leather Technologies (ICLT) has been awarded an Outstanding Achievement prize, donated by leather chemicals-maker Trumpler.

Louise McKay, who is studying for the Leathersellers Certificate, received a financial award of €1500, which helped her to attend an industry conference in Germany. Trumpler, a German company, has been supporting students with the award for the past three years.

Louise joined the University of Northampton course to develop her technical skills after completing an apprenticeship with a leather goods brand and launching her own label. Louise was nominated due to her hardworking ethic; she has taken on extra science modules and assignments to ensure her knowledge encompasses all aspects of leather marketing and science.

“Everything I have learnt from my degree at the University of Northampton will help me in my future career,” explained Louise. “Northampton was the only university to offer this specialist degree; the University has all the facilities needed and I couldn’t ask for more.

Louise started her own leather label with the help of the Prince’s Trust. She creates durable, multi-faceted pieces, which she sells in shops across London and online via Etsy. Her work has been featured in magzines including Vogue, Submission and Dark Beauty. “Innovative leather finishes are being created every day and this is what I want to be a part of,” Louise explained.

​Rachel Garwood, Director of the Institute of Creative Leather Technologies, commented: “Louise has been an exemplary student in demonstrating the links between creative arts and science, displaying passion for leather knowledge and understanding of the material she works with. It is a well-deserved award.”

“Trumpler is very proud to be associated with the University of Northampton and to recognise the efforts of Louise McKay in this regard,” said regional marketing manager Steve Trantum.

Louise is soon to launch a new website​.

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Pictured: Louise McKay and Steve Trantum of Trumpler.