Talent & Skills
Bridging the gap between education and the industry, and supporting young people into world-changing tech careers.
The Talent & Skills pillar is all about bridging the gap between education and industry, helping young people build the confidence, capability and connections they need to step into world‑changing tech careers.
Through our Social Value Partnership with Microsoft, we work with colleges, universities, employers and training providers to strengthen the region’s digital talent pipeline, from early inspiration to real employment pathways. Together, we’re supporting the South West to develop the skills needed for a future shaped by AI, data, cyber security and emerging technologies.
“The South West has incredible potential, but too many people still struggle to find clear routes into digital & tech careers. Our focus is on bringing employers, educators and young people closer together so that the sector can grow with confidence and businesses can access the talent they need. When we strengthen those connections, we strengthen the entire region.”
Richard Beedell, Head of Community and Partnerships at Tech South West
Upcoming events & news
Building a future‑ready South West through digital skills
As part of Microsoft’s Social Value delivery in the South West, Microsoft and Tech South West partnered to deliver two regional skills events at South Devon College and Bridgwater & Taunton College, bringing together students, employers, educators and ecosystem partners to explore a shared innovation challenge: how to make the South West the easiest place for young people to access real tech opportunities, and for employers to find emerging talent.
The report explores the widening technical and power‑skills gaps identified across both events, the persistent challenges around confidence, work‑readiness and access, and the structural barriers that limit early‑career progression, from transport and rurality to limited junior roles and outdated curricula.
South West Connector (opens in new tab)
The South West Connector is an online hub that brings together digital jobs, apprenticeships, internships and training opportunities from across the region. Developed by Microsoft UK with The Talent People, and created in collaboration with the Met Office, the South West Institute of Technology and Tech South West, it helps people aged 16 plus explore real pathways into digital careers.
Employers and training providers can use the Connector to promote roles and courses, while learners can discover opportunities and access free Microsoft learning content in areas such as AI, cybersecurity, coding and data analytics. Whether you are hiring, delivering training or planning your next step, the Connector makes it easier to navigate the South West’s growing digital landscape.
South West of England Digital Conference
Date: 9 July, Firepool Digital Innovation Centre, Taunton
The South West Digital Conference brings together SMEs, educators, digital specialists and students for a full day of practical learning focused on digital skills, innovation and the future workforce. Hosted at the University of Plymouth, the event centres on hands‑on, jargon‑free workshops across five tracks: AI, Cyber Security, Digital Solutions, Roles & Opportunities and Talent & Digital Skills, giving attendees actionable insight they can take straight back to work.
Ecosystem Pulse
The Ecosystem Pulse is the evolution of the South West Tech Leadership Forum, opening up participation to everyone passionate about the region’s innovation journey.
Meeting quarterly, it provides a space to share updates, hear from experts, and feed into Tech South West’s strategic work across business support, funding, talent, and sector profile.Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, corporate, university or government stakeholder, you’re invited to join the conversation and help shape the South West’s tech future
Regional Skills Events
This spring, we hosted two Regional Skills Events at Bridgwater College and South Devon College, bringing together educators, students, employers and partners including Microsoft and the South West Institute of Technology.
Both sessions followed the same collaborative format, focused on one shared goal: strengthening the region’s digital talent pipeline by improving alignment between education and industry.
Through structured discussions and interactive workshops, participants explored local skills gaps, shared insights from both sides of the education–employment divide, and worked together to shape practical next steps. Each event produced early pilot ideas and actions designed to help young people access meaningful tech opportunities and support employers in connecting with emerging talent.
