Plans revealed for £13m Institute of Technology
Loughborough College, the University of Derby, Loughborough University and the Derby College Group (DCG) have joined forces on a £13m plan to create a new Institute of Technology (IoT).
The East Midlands IoT would focus on critical engineering, manufacturing and digital skills needed by employers to address the grand engineering challenges of clean growth by embracing the advanced skills required for AI and a data-driven economy.
Graduates will be part of a net zero carbon workforce and support the UK’s journey to net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
The East Midlands IoT has been selected by the Government to enter the final round of applications to become one of eight new UK IoTs.
Jo Maher, Principal and CEO at Loughborough College, said: “Reaching the final stage reflects Loughborough College’s proven track record of delivering pioneering STEM programmes which prepare students with the skills for working successfully in Industry 4.0.
“We are so proud to collaborate with such exceptional partners and anchor employers on creating a pathway which will genuinely help accelerate the UK’s journey to net zero carbon economy and provide incredible training and employment opportunities throughout the region.”
Professor Kathryn Mitchell DL, vice-chancellor of the University of Derby, said: “This is an exciting opportunity for our region, and we are delighted to be working with further and higher education partners from Derby and Loughborough and with industry to bring vast expertise and experience to this initiative.
“As an applied university, offering placements and apprenticeships in the engineering and technology sector, we understand the importance of ensuring graduates are ready to meet the region’s skills needs.
“Our strong industry links and TEF Gold-standard teaching, combined with our specialisms in areas such as data science, advanced manufacturing, architectural technology and low carbon business support, make us very well equipped to help deliver the Institute for Derbyshire and Leicestershire.”
Professor Rachel Thomson FREng, pro vice-chancellor for teaching at Loughborough University, said: “We are really excited to be working with our partners – Loughborough College, University of Derby and Derby College Group – and key employers in Leicestershire and Derbyshire to create an outstanding Institute of Technology which will deliver much-needed digital and engineering skills to support industry and business across the region. Importantly, the IoT will provide access to the right training and skills development at the point of need to support our local community to have fulfilling careers throughout their working life.”
Mandie Stravino, CEO of Derby College Group (DCG), added: “DCG has a proven track record in working with employers to co-design and co-deliver our curriculum which will be a crucial element in the development of the IoT.
“By working together, we will be able to provide a clear progression for workforce and employers to access the higher level skills they need to remain competitive in their global markets and offer an accessible route into high wage and high skilled employment both for young people entering the world of work and adults looking to up-skill.”
The successful applicants will be revealed later this year.
