We’re delighted to announce the agenda for the next event in UVAC’s popular Innovation Exchange Series: Inspiring Skills Excellence: Technology, Teaching and T-Shaped Learning 

Join us on Thursday 8 October 2026 at the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Institute of Technology to hear from leading voices across education, industry, research and policy as we explore the future skills needed for work, learning and life. 

Throughout the day,  attendees will have the opportunity to discover practical examples of how innovative technologies are transforming teaching, learning and workforce development. Hear insights into emerging workforce trends, digital and AI capability, and international best practice. 

Through evidence-informed discussion and collaboration, we’ll explore how stronger partnerships can widen participation, enhance quality, build workforce capability and create future-focused technical education systems. 

This event is free to attend. Here’s the agenda, giving an outline what’s in store for the day: 

Morning Sessions  

Registration, refreshments and networking 

Welcome, introduction and context setting – Unlocking the UK’s potential: Raising standards, championing future skills, and empowering learners to succeed. 

Inspiring Skills Excellence: Technology, Teaching and T-Shaped Learning – Bringing industry and education closer together- Partnerships for goals! 

Technology inspiring innovation and inclusion 

Digital transformation solutions in education, and key industry growth sectors 

Equipping the workforce to thrive in the industries of today and tomorrow – The Ripple Effect! – Building workforce capability and capacity: Essential Digital and AI Skills 

Pride in professionalism: Supporting dual professionalism and celebrating success 

Afternoon Sessions 

Staying at the forefront of innovation- turning great ideas into reality – Learning Lab Tour and Interactive Workshop 

Creating pathways to success: Innovation literacy, entrepreneurship, and commercialisation 

People, Place, Pathways and Possibilities: Building Ladders of Opportunity for All –Panel Discussion 

Plenary, evaluation and next steps! 

REGISTER today to join us and be part of the conversation shaping the future of technical education. 

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