New Training Initiative Targets Digital Skills Gap in the West Midlands
By Anushka Malhotra
1 minute 46 seconds
Employment
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Quick Read: A new data skills bootcamp launched by Just IT aims to bridge the digital skills gap in the West Midlands, enhancing local job prospects and economic growth.
Birmingham and the broader West Midlands region have recently seen notable economic and technological advancements. However, this progress is being hampered by a significant digital skills gap, which poses a risk to the potential growth of local businesses and the region's overall economic development.
The Digital Skills Shortfall in the West Midlands
A report by the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce highlights that many businesses in Birmingham and the West Midlands are struggling to find employees with essential digital skills. According to the report, 70% of businesses in the area see the digital skills gap as a major obstacle to growth and competitiveness. Moreover, the UK Digital Skills Audit shows that almost 50% of companies in the West Midlands face digital skills shortages within their workforce.
Addressing the Skills Gap
To address this critical issue, Just IT, a provider of digital and IT skills training, has introduced a new, fully funded data skills bootcamp. The Xcelerate Data Bootcamp offers residents over 19 years of age in the West Midlands the chance to receive comprehensive training in data skills, enhancing their employment prospects in the local job market.
In partnership with the Compass Group, a leading British multinational contract foodservice company, Just IT is launching the programme in the West Midlands. The programme includes three workshop days at Edgbaston Stadium. It covers essential tools and platforms such as Microsoft Excel, Tableau, RStudio, SQL, Power BI, and Azure Data Fundamentals, equipping participants with the skills needed for various career paths.
The programme aims to provide versatile skills applicable across multiple industries, not just traditional data roles, thereby opening up numerous career opportunities for participants in today’s data-driven economy.Matthew Elson, Director of Training at Just IT, commented on the programme’s launch:
"The West Midlands is crucial for digital skills, with a rising demand for expertise in data. Our partnership with Compass Group, which demonstrates a strong commitment to the region, allows us to offer excellent job prospects through this programme for residents in the WMCA."
Jonathan Foot, Head of Apprenticeships & Early Careers at Compass Group, added:
"We're excited to host our first IT/Digital Solutions Skills Boot Camp in partnership with Just IT at Xcelerate with Edgbaston. This data-focused initiative provides local jobseekers aged 19 and above the chance to secure positions with Compass and other local employers."
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the Xcelerate Data Bootcamp is vital for ensuring the West Midlands remains competitive and its workforce is equipped with the necessary skills to succeed in a rapidly changing environment.
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