Skills summit sets out plans to prepare North Wales workforce for major projects

Daniel Bevan - Editor

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A skills summit hosted in North Wales this week brought together government ministers, education leaders and employers to map out how the region’s workforce can be prepared for major new job opportunities linked to energy and technology investment.

The event, hosted by Minister for Skills Jack Sargeant MS at the Llangefni campus of Grŵp Llandrillo Menai, focused on how North Wales can benefit from projects including the proposed Wylfa nuclear power station and the development of a new AI growth zone.

Industry leaders, training providers and government partners discussed skills priorities for the region, pathways into employment for young people and the need to upskill workers already in jobs so local communities can take advantage of future investment.

The summit was also attended by Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning Rebecca Evans MS and Minister for Higher and Further Education Vikki Howells MS.

Speaking at the event, Jack Sargeant said: “North Wales stands at a pivotal moment. Wylfa, the growth of renewable energy, and new investment zones are reshaping our economy.

“But these opportunities will only be fully realised if people have access to the right skills, at the right time, in the right places.

“Today’s discussions were vital. When government, industry and education providers align our planning and ambitions, North Wales is better positioned to lead the UK towards a greener, more prosperous future.”

Vikki Howells said: “I would like to thank everyone who took part in these essential and valuable discussions today.

“Our objective is to create clear, accessible pathways so every learner can progress, and the insights shared will help us ensure learners across North Wales develop higher-level skills, and contribute to a strong, sustainable Welsh economy.”

Students were also represented at the summit, including Matthew Franklin, an Aeronautical Engineering Level 3 learner at Coleg Menai.

He said: “These are really exciting times for Ynys Môn and it’s encouraging seeing so many major projects come to the island.

“The developments will hopefully provide fantastic opportunities for local young people to develop a successful career in the area they’ve been brought up in.”

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