More than 43,000 people across the West Midlands have received vital job training over the past eight months, equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in emerging industries and address key labour shortages.

The training focuses on high-tech sectors such as digital, data, and Artificial Intelligence (AI), as well as green industries like electrification and retrofitting. Simultaneously, it supports critical sectors such as construction, health and social care, and logistics, ensuring a well-balanced workforce for the region’s economic future.

The initiative has been welcomed by West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker, who has prioritised tackling unemployment—particularly among young people—through his ‘Jobs for Everyone’ initiative. This plan invests in skills, training, and apprenticeships to ensure that every individual has access to well-paid employment opportunities.

West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker said:

Since gaining control of the Adult Education Budget in 2019, the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) has invested over £700 million into skills training through courses, bootcamps, and pre-apprenticeship programs.

In July, the Mayor launched his flagship Youth Plan to address youth unemployment, which remains twice the national average in the region. The plan offers pre-employment training in high-growth sectors, fully funded education up to Level 3, and access to career support services. A key feature includes work coach support, developed in partnership with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), to provide tailored career advice and help young people secure and sustain employment.

The initiative aims to create 20,000 work experience placements, training opportunities, and apprenticeships. Already, 5,300 placements have been pledged by regional employers and training providers.

By continuing to invest in skills and workforce development, the West Midlands is positioning itself as a powerhouse for talent, innovation, and economic growth.