Skills summit focuses on working together

A landmark skills summit, at the Isle of Wight College, was hosted by IW West MP, Richard Quigley, on October 9, which brought together employers, educators, and community leaders to address barriers to employment and skills development across the Island.

The event focused on key growth sectors identified by the government, including advanced manufacturing, defence, digital, and creative industries.

Businesses such as GKN Aerospace, Vikoma, WightFibre, BAE Systems, Isle of Wight Tomatoes, Vestas, Yokogawa, Johnson Electric, and IFPL Group took part, alongside Rob Johnson, the new CEO of the Chamber of Commerce on behalf of members. In his opening remarks, Mr Quigley emphasised the need for collaboration between businesses and skills providers to ensure Islanders can access well-paid jobs, regardless of age. He urged attendees to commit to quarterly follow-ups to track progress ahead of next year’s summit.

The Isle of Wight College, Youth Trust, Careers Enterprise Company, and Isle of Wight Council supported the event and presented on key themes. These included improving access to meaningful work experience, expanding post-16 pathways, such as apprenticeships and T-Level placements, and supporting inclusion for SEND learners and those not in education, employment or training (NEETs).

“This is just the start,” said Mr Quigley. “Everyone recognises we must act to drive growth and reverse decline. By working together, we can support more Islanders into employment.”

Principal of Isle of Wight College, Ros Parker, praised the summit’s impact on workforce development. Geoff Underwood, CEO of IFPL Group and founder of WightAid, added: “It’s vital that young people believe in the opportunities available locally. I’m encouraged to see our MP leading this conversation and helping build the talent pool of the future.”