West Midlands Combined Authority has renewed its contract with iMeta Training to deliver tech skills programmes that enhance careers, improve productivity and drive economic growth across the region.
The agreement covers five comprehensive courses and follows the recent renewal of iMeta’s Skills Boot Camp contract with the combined authority.
Mayor Richard Parker has committed to establishing the West Midlands as the UK’s leading place for AI skills training, with iMeta’s programmes designed to help learners and employers succeed in a tech-driven economy.
iMeta was among the first regional providers to embed sector-specific AI skills across its course portfolio, equipping learners with expertise for the future of work.
The five courses span a range of in-demand digital skills and are fully funded for eligible candidates. The IT Infrastructure Technician programme prepares learners to secure, manage and maintain core IT systems, leading to the globally recognised CompTIA A+ certification, while the Business Data Analyst course equips them to transform data into meaningful business insights using tools including Excel, Power BI and SQL.
The remaining three courses cover Penetration Plus Cyber Security, which develops skills in ethical hacking and network defence; Associate Digital Leadership and Management, which prepares learners to lead teams and projects in a digital environment; and Practical AI for Business, which helps professionals apply AI to real-world business challenges without needing a technical background.
Mohammed Zur, founder and CEO of iMeta Training, said:
“We are delighted to continue our work with the West Midlands Combined Authority, helping people across the region access the digital skills they need to secure good jobs and build successful careers.
“Digital skills are in growing demand and we are committed to ensuring people across the West Midlands have access to the training they need to secure good jobs and build successful careers. We are also committed to helping employers find the talent they need to grow.”
iMeta learners have gone on to secure new jobs in their chosen fields, gain promotions, or progress into further education, with individuals moving into roles at organisations including Mercedes-Benz, Network Rail, Capgemini and the UK Civil Service. Learners are supported throughout by dedicated progressions and employer engagement teams who help with CVs, interview preparation and connecting with relevant job opportunities.
Industry estimates suggest the West Midlands needs 280,000 more people with essential digital skills to meet national benchmarks, while digital skills shortages could cost the UK economy £27.6bn by 2030, according to research from the University of Birmingham.