West Midlands to give all residents access to free AI skills training

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) has set out an ambitious plan to make AI skills training available to every adult in the region, in a bid to ensure no one is left behind in the technology-driven economy.

Mayor Richard Parker announced the £10 million initiative during a visit to SCC’s headquarters in Tyseley, Birmingham, describing it as “economically imperative” that residents have the skills to thrive in an increasingly digital workplace.

Under the proposals, the WMCA will launch a three-year programme offering free, practical training to help people use artificial intelligence in everyday life - whether at home, at work, or in the community. For those seeking deeper expertise, the plan includes opportunities to develop advanced technical skills that can lead to high-value jobs in AI, data, and digital industries.

A key element will be the creation of a pioneering AI Academy, bringing together the WMCA, tech firms, universities, colleges, and community organisations. The Academy would serve as a gateway into AI careers and provide upskilling for workers whose roles are changing as technology evolves.

“This is about avoiding an AI skills divide,” Parker said. “As jobs become increasingly digital and data-driven, AI will be a core skill, just like English or maths. If we don’t make training a priority and accessible to all, whole communities risk being excluded from the jobs of the future.”

The West Midlands already ranks among the UK’s most active AI hubs, home to more than 140 AI-focused companies employing nearly 70,000 people and contributing £5.5 billion annually to the regional economy. The WMCA hopes to build on this strength as part of its wider Growth Plan, which aims to create 100,000 well-paid jobs and boost living standards.

Research suggests that communities with AI-trained workers are more likely to start new businesses, improve public services, and modernise local industries. The World Economic Forum has warned that more than half of all employees will need reskilling or upskilling in the coming years as AI adoption accelerates.

The WMCA’s AI investment forms part of a wider £30 million skills package. Other measures include £10 million for employer-designed training programmes in high-growth sectors like green technology and advanced manufacturing, and £10 million to help disadvantaged groups into better work through partnerships with local authorities and community organisations.