The UK government has approved the bid for a new £13m East Midlands Institute of Technology (IoT).
Loughborough University, Loughborough College, the University of Derby, and the Derby College Group (DCG) will work together on the new institute.
According to its founders, the IoT aims to foster the ‘net-zero carbon workforce’ needed to lead the UK’s green and digital revolution.
The IoT will specialise in programmes such as engineering and manufacturing technologies; information and communication technology; science and mathematics, and construction, planning and the built environment.
It will be work closely with global powerhouse employers, including Rolls-Royce, Toyota, National Grid ESO, Alstom, Fujitsu, Uniper and Bloc Digital, to ensure programmes level up the workforce with the right skills.
Professor Rachel Thomson FREng, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Teaching at Loughborough University, commented: “We are truly delighted that our bid has been successful and look forward to continuing to work with our Further and Higher Education and employer partners to deliver an outstanding Institute of Technology.
“This will provide much-needed digital and engineering skills for industry and business across the region, supporting our local community to access the right training and skills development at the point of need.”
Professor Nick Jennings, Loughborough’s Vice-Chancellor and President, added: “The University has always enjoyed great partnerships with industry, and they remain a key a priority as we move forward with our new strategy.
“The Institute will play a vital role in strengthening our partnerships even further, and I would like to congratulate all those involved in this important initiative. It will be a great asset to the region.”
Professor Kathryn Mitchell DL, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Derby, said: “We are delighted that our application for an Institute of Technology in the heart of the region has been selected.
“Through our strong industry links, business experience and experience 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.”
Mandie Stravino, CEO of Derby College Group (DCG), added: “By working together across the FE and HE sectors, the development of the IoT will broaden opportunities for both young people entering the world of work and adults looking to re-train or up-skill mid-career.
“It will also open up more accessible routes to higher education for students who may not have previously considered this route to expand their immediate and future career options.”
The IoT will work in close partnership with its anchor employers to develop the right skills and programmes, from T-Levels through to postgraduate degrees, required for those industries.
Image: Render of the East Midlands IoT (Credit: Loughborough University)
Read next: The next generation: How to get young people into engineering
Are you a building professional? Sign up for a FREE MEMBERSHIP to upload news stories, post job vacancies, and connect with colleagues on our secure social feed.
