The Regional Learning and Skills Partnership (RLSP), who are delivering the Swansea Bay City Deal Skills and Talent programme has worked closely with employers from across South West Wales, listening to their concerns around skills shortages, recruitment challenges and workforce development. Thanks to funding from the Skills and Talent Programme, those conversations are now leading to innovative pilot projects designed to address these issues and support future economic growth.
Projects who have recently received funding include:
1. AI Enable for South West Wales: Led by Tramshed Tech is a pilot project that will develop and deliver a regional AI Skills Progression Pathway. Responding to growing demand for practical AI skills, the programme will support individuals and organisations from AI awareness through to accredited learning and implementation. This will support 180 business managers through specialist training helping businesses adopt AI safely and effectively.
2. Constructa Pathways: Addressing skills shortages in the construction sector, Constructa Pathways, led by ConstructaSkills, will create clear routes into construction and the built environment. Developed in response to employer recruitment challenges, youth unemployment and economic inactivity, the project will help individuals who are NEET to access training, develop employability skills and progress into sustainable careers within the sector.
3. Leadership for Construction: CITB in partnership with Cardiff Metropolitan university, is delivering an accredited Leadership for Construction Programme. Designed for middle managers with senior leadership potential, the programme will strengthen leadership skills, improve business performance and help construction firms respond to future challenges and opportunities.
These pilot projects demonstrate how employer feedback is being transformed into practical solutions supporting businesses and building a stronger workforce for South West Wales.