Skills and innovation 'critical to region 's future '
Investment in skills and innovation are critical to the future of the region 's economy, delegates heard at the launch of a major economic report.
Speaking at the launch of the 2022 Birmingham Economic Review, Professor Simon Collinson, deputy pro-vice-chancellor for Regional Engagement and director of City-REDI and WMREDI at the University of Birmingham, said the West Midlands has opportunities for inclusive growth after overcoming a “triple economic shock ”.
The Birmingham Economic Review - produced by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and the University of Birmingham City Region Economic and Development Institute (City-REDI) - launched yesterday with an event at The Exchange in Birmingham 's Centenary Square.
Professor Collinson (pictured) said: “The region has had a triple economic shock but there is an opportunity now for inclusive growth.
“Digital and clean growth are significant opportunities for the Birmingham economy on the back of the real boost coming from the Commonwealth Games.
“Innovation and skills are critical to future. Skills put households and individuals out of dependency and improve productivity and equality. ”
Delegates also heard from Birmingham City Council 's deputy leader Cllr Brigid Jones, engineering consultant Dr Josh Ahmed and chair of the West Midlands Combined Authority 's Race Equality Taskforce, Yetunde Dania.
Cllr Jones discussed a host of topics including steps that are being taken to ease the energy burden and how the council is supporting Net Zero - with the aim to reach its target by 20230.
Dr Ahmed - the managing director of Eccleston & Hart Ltd, who works as an engineering consultant across a number of industries including, gas, oil, rail defence, aerospace, technology and financial services - talked about some of the challenges facing his sector, including recruitment struggles and how a lack of interest in engineering is reflected in the skills shortage.
Ms Dania, a partner at law firm Trowers & Hamlins, spoke of how the region 's growth must include everyone, saying: “If we include everyone, our region will grow. Stop playing with change and drive it once and for all. ”