Barnsley’s AI Boost: Tech Town Powers Up Jobseekers for Future Careers

Earlier this year, Barnsley in Yorkshire was named the UK's first 'Tech Town' by the government, marking it as a leader in technology and digital skills. Now, Barnsley residents are being offered new opportunities to learn about artificial intelligence, or AI, through two government-backed programs. These initiatives are designed to help people prepare for future careers that will use AI, making sure that local workers are ready for the changing job market.

The first program, called AI Career Launchpad, is a partnership with Barnsley College and is worth more than £400,000. It offers flexible training and paid work placements for people of all ages. Participants will receive six months of training connected to a Level 4 apprenticeship, which is a higher-level job training program. During this time, they will also get paid work experience with local employers. Major technology companies like Microsoft, Cisco, and Adobe are supporting this effort, aiming to help Barnsley residents gain the skills needed for the jobs of the future. Once the program is finished, the training materials will be shared with other colleges and training providers across the country, so more people can benefit.

The second program, Getting Job Ready with AI, will start in September. This pilot project will help jobseekers in Barnsley use AI to find suitable jobs, write CVs and cover letters, and prepare for interviews. It will also teach them how employers are already using digital tools in their daily work. People will be referred to this program through Jobcentre Plus. The goal is to make it easier for people to find work and to help them progress in their careers. This is part of a larger effort by the Department for Work and Pensions to improve jobcentres and turn them into a universal careers service.

Local leaders in Barnsley are excited about these new opportunities. David Akeroyd, the Principal and CEO of Barnsley College, said that the program opens up career paths that were previously only available in other parts of the country. Matt O'Neill, Barnsley Council's Executive Director for Place, said that Tech Town is about using technology in ways that are inclusive and trusted, and that are part of everyday life. He hopes these programs will make a real difference for residents, employers, and communities in Barnsley. In addition to the two new programs, there will be an assessment in the autumn to see how local charities and community groups are already using AI, and where more support is needed. The lessons learned in Barnsley will help the government decide how to help other towns and cities across the UK. The government has set a goal to equip 10 million UK workers with AI skills by 2030, and Barnsley is leading the way.