Digital communications firm aql has strengthened its partnership with Leeds City College through the creation of a new innovation lab and a £100,000 investment. The aql Innovation Centre, based at the college’s Printworks Campus, aims to accelerate digital learning and provide hands-on experience in artificial intelligence, data processing and connectivity systems.
The company has worked with the college, part of the Luminate Education Group, for the past two years on hackathons that simulate real-world IT challenges. The new lab formalises that collaboration, giving students access to dedicated servers, sensors, and software tools to develop skills for the region’s growing digital economy.
aql’s latest contribution includes equipment and engineering support to develop a next-generation 5G innovation lab network at the college over the next year. The initiative aligns with broader efforts to connect industry and education, helping to address the shortage of digital and engineering talent in West Yorkshire.
The launch event brought together senior figures from aql and the Luminate Education Group, underlining a shared commitment to long-term investment in digital skills, innovation and workforce readiness for the region’s business community.
