Artificial Intelligence (AI) could contribute around £2 billion to Staffordshire’s economy by 2030 under county council plans to help businesses adopt new technologies, develop workforce skills and drive productivity across key sectors.
A new report sets out a vision for Staffordshire to become ‘the intelligent heart of the country’ through the responsible adoption of AI. It highlights opportunities across sectors including advanced manufacturing, logistics, construction, health and social care, digital industries and energy.
The county council wants to ensure that Staffordshire has the digital infrastructure, partnerships in place and innovation assets needed to support wider AI adoption and future economic growth.
Robin Hall, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills, said:
AI is already changing business, skills and the jobs of the future. Staffordshire can either watch that happen or get ahead of it. I want us to get ahead.
This is a project I am personally passionate about. My ambition is for Staffordshire to be at the forefront of AI adoption, helping our businesses grow, become more productive and compete.
This isn't five or ten years away. AI is here now, and we need to move at pace. That means giving Staffordshire businesses practical support to adopt it and making sure our residents have the skills to benefit from the jobs and opportunities it will create.
I want Staffordshire to lead, not follow. With the right ambition and investment, we can unlock growth, create opportunities and make this county an even stronger place to invest and do business.”
The county council plans to strengthen AI support for small and start-up businesses through the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Growth Hub, with the introduction of new support programmes and improve access to AI-related training. The aim is to help firms increase productivity, innovate and remain competitive.
Proposals are also in place for a Virtual AI Skills Academy, improved careers guidance and training opportunities to help people gain the skills needed for today’s jobs and so they’re up to speed to take advantage of the latest opportunities. Support would also target groups most at risk of digital exclusion.
The report highlights the importance of government investment, including greater access to skills and growth funding to help accelerate AI adoption and strengthen workforce capability in Staffordshire.
The AI Business Case will be discussed by the by county council’s Economy, Infrastructure and Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Tuesday 21 July, before going to cabinet later this year.
