Friday 3 May saw the official launch of the University of the West of England’s Foundry Technology Affinity Space, funded by the Institute of Coding.
Chris Skidmore – minister of state for universities, science, research and innovation, and the MP for nearby Kingswood – was in attendance to learn more about the digital skills-focused facility.
“As we rely more on new technologies and cyber threats become more sophisticated,” said the minister, “the Foundry Technology Affinity Space will provide the vital skills needed to meet the opportunities – and address the challenges – of the future.”
The impressive state-of-the-art facility, with its cutting-edge technology, will introduce a range of innovative new courses for students.
– Chris Skidmore
UWE Bristol associate professor, Andy King, is the driving force behind the project, wherein students will be introduced to industry partners to help “build their professional identity” as they continue their studies.
Skidmore added: “The impressive state-of-the-art facility, with its cutting-edge technology, will introduce a range of innovative new courses for students, enabling them to go on and compete successfully in the global digital economy.”
UWE Bristol is an increasingly significant player in the tech world. In February, we reported on the launch of its £1m SABRE programme, designed to help SMEs explore the benefits of robotics and smart automation solutions.
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Professor Steve West, vice-chancellor of UWE Bristol, said: “Deep and meaningful collaboration with industry and the world of professional practice will hugely benefit our students, not just during their degrees, but in their futures as they progress into the digital industry.
“I look forward to seeing what our students will create in this innovative new space.”
As well as housing UWE Bristol’s Enterprise Studios, the Foundry is also intended to broaden participation in STEM-centric areas by serving as a digital event space. Computer science, creative technologies, and cybersecurity are among the fields set to feature in a “high-profile calendar of technology outreach and engagement events”.
