Bradford’s business community recently gathered to explore the future of digital skills and AI integration, highlighting the importance of equipping the local workforce to support business growth. Hosted by West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, the roundtable discussion focused on the urgent need for businesses to adapt to technological shifts, particularly AI.
Business leaders from Bradford College, Bradford Council, EY Foundation, and others shared insights on how their organisations are responding to the challenge of digital transformation. Yorkshire Building Society’s team, led by incoming Bradford Chamber President Rebecca Fitzgerald, outlined their approach to upskilling employees to meet evolving demands. With AI now central to many business functions, the group emphasised the need for continuous, targeted training to stay ahead.
The discussion also touched on the wider implications of AI adoption across industries, highlighting the government’s £2bn investment in AI initiatives and £1.2bn for youth training, which was seen as a step in the right direction for securing the future of AI-driven industries.
However, smaller businesses voiced concerns over the cost and accessibility of high-quality training, with legal firms like Schofield Sweeney raising issues about keeping staff updated in a fast-evolving regulatory environment. Bradford Chamber president Mark Cowgill noted that securing skilled talent remains a top priority, alongside responsible leadership and the necessary infrastructure to manage AI’s growth.
This event is part of the Local Skills Improvement Plan, aiming to enhance Bradford’s position within the broader Yorkshire and Humber region’s growing digital economy.
