Building the skilled workforce needed to support Worcestershire’s future growth was the focus of a major conference held at Sixways Stadium on Friday (12 June).
Employers, education leaders and skills partners from across the county came together to hear from Baroness Nicky Morgan, Chair of the Careers & Enterprise Company and former Secretary of State for Education.
Hosted by Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership (WLEP), Early Careers Worcestershire and the Careers & Enterprise Company, the event explored how businesses and educators can work together to ensure young people develop the skills, knowledge and experiences needed for the jobs of the future.
Those attending also had the opportunity to put their questions directly to Baroness Morgan, covering topics including artificial intelligence in the workplace, preparing young people for an increasingly digital economy, the future of work experience and how employers can help create more inclusive opportunities for the next generation.
A key theme of the event was the important role employers play in helping young people understand the world of work and develop the skills businesses need. Discussions also highlighted upcoming reforms to work experience.
Baroness Nicky Morgan said employers had a vital role to play in developing Worcestershire’s future workforce and building confidence in its talent pipeline, “It’s my pleasure to be in Worcestershire and we’ve had a great conversation with employers.
“We understand that employers of all sizes and shapes are under significant pressure. But I think they also have an interest in thinking about their future talent pipeline, about being confident about the young people they’re hopefully going to be recruiting.
“My word of wisdom would be open, because actually we can learn from young people in the way they can learn from us.”
Gary Woodman, Chief Executive of Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, said, “We were delighted to welcome Baroness Morgan to Worcestershire and grateful that she took the time to share her insights with businesses, educators and partners from across the county.
“Bringing national speakers and industry leaders to Worcestershire helps ensure local employers can hear first-hand about emerging trends, future skills needs and the opportunities available to help shape the workforce of tomorrow. Strong links between business and education are essential to economic growth. By working together, we can help young people develop the skills employers need while ensuring Worcestershire remains a great place to invest, work and do business.”
Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership works with businesses, education providers and public sector partners to drive economic growth, support skills development and help create the conditions for businesses and communities to thrive.
To find out more about the early careers agenda and how your business can get involved, please contact the Growth Hub team on the details below.
