A leading member of the digital sector in the South West has made a rallying call for the development of digital skills across the whole economy.
Members and guests of the Senior Executives’ Forum (SEF), hosted by CCB Training, part of the Cornwall College Group (TCCG), were given key insights into the importance of future digital skills for the next generation.
Caitlin Gould, Director at Bluefruit and Chair of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly, Digital Skills Partnership project (CIOS DSP), spoke passionately about the need to develop skills to bolster the entire economy.
Caitlin said that digital skills “aren’t just for software engineers, these skills will transfer across to a wide range of sector from hospitality to construction”.
She also highlighted the shortage of women working in the digital sector which has stemmed from the lack of female engagement in related courses and activities in colleges and secondary schools.
To help overcome this, Caitlin has worked with a team of mainly women (and some supportive men) to develop TEC girls. TEC girls aims to ignite a passion for technology, engineering and creativity through play, experimentation and exploring.
Aimed at girls 6-12 years old (and their parents) TEC girls will be hosting a series of event in the future. Their first event TECgirls LIVE is on the 4th of April in Truro. The event filled up in just two weeks with 100 girls signed up to take part. To find out more visit www.tecgirls.co.uk.
The Senior Executives’ Forum is an exclusive business forum that consists of Cornwall’s top movers and shakers within the business community. The Forum meets three times a year to hear from topical and current keynote speakers as well as offering the opportunity to network with high profile members.
“SEF is a great platform to bring together business leaders across the county to network and share good practice,” commented Justin Olosundé, Assistant Principal External Engagement and Business Innovations at TCCG.
“At today’s event, Caitlin has highlighted the need for digital skills and how these will enable individuals to fill roles that currently do not exist.
“To support these future roles, Cornwall College works in partnership with local software companies to deliver the Cornwall Digital Academy, I am digital programme.”
CIoS DSP was launched in May 2019 to provide strategic leadership to ensure digital skills are driving economic growth and improving outcome for individuals, businesses and communities. The DPS works alongside the National Digital Skills Partnership Board to ensure the Governments UK Digital Strategy is responsive to local needs.
In return, the local area can make the most of national opportunities, sector analysis to inform delivery, cross-government department collaboration and funding opportunities to overcome digital challenges.
If you are interested in finding out more about the Senior Executives’ Forum please contact Tracey Johnson on 01726 226677 or email [email protected]
