New Institute of Technology will lead the UK’s digital and green revolution

The Government has given the green light for a new £13m East Midlands Institute of Technology (IoT).

The University of Derby, Loughborough College, Loughborough University and the Derby College Group (DCG) will work together on the new Institute, which will create the highly advanced workforce needed to lead the digital revolution – otherwise known as Industry 4.0.

The East Midlands IoT will focus on levelling up the 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.

Its pioneering graduates will be part of a net zero carbon workforce needed to lead the UK’s green and digital revolution and support the UK’s post-pandemic recovery and journey to net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Based in the heart of the East Midlands, 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.

The IoT will be working 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.

Students will have access to a new IoT centre in Loughborough, as well as partner sites, including world class training environments in Derby at the University of Derby’s Enterprise Centre and DCG’s Roundhouse technical and professional skills college.

Speaking about the announcement, 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.

“As an applied university, with specialisms in areas such as data science, advanced manufacturing, architectural technology and low carbon business support, we are well equipped to help deliver the Institute alongside our further and higher education partners from Derby and Loughborough, and within industry.”

Jo Maher, Principal and CEO at Loughborough College, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have been successful in our bid to create the East Midlands Institute of Technology.  

“This presents us with an exciting and inspiring opportunity to deliver world class programmes which will lead the UK’s green and digital revolution and form the beating heart of the country’s post-pandemic recovery. 

“It is a privilege to collaborate with such exceptional partners and anchor employers to create a pathway which will accelerate the UK’s journey to a net zero carbon economy, whilst providing incredible training and employment opportunities for people throughout the region.” 

Professor Rachel Thomson FREng, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Teaching at Loughborough University, said: “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.”

Mandie Stravino, CEO of Derby College Group (DCG), said: “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 upskill 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.

Read more about the Institute of Technology announcement.