12TH OCT 2026
Gloucestershire College Joins Gloucestershire Tech Week 2026 Launch
We attended the launch of Gloucestershire Tech Week 2026 at Iress in Cheltenham, joining technology leaders, innovators, educators and businesses from across the county to celebrate our region’s thriving technology sector and look ahead to the week’s programme.
The event allowed us to explore how closer links between education and industry can help Gloucestershire respond to the opportunities and challenges presented by rapid technological change.
As a leading provider of digital, cyber and technical education, we work closely with employers and industry partners to develop the skills local businesses need. These connections help ensure our learners gain the knowledge and practical experience they need to prepare for careers in high-demand sectors.
Gloucestershire Tech Week brings together founders, innovators, businesses, investors, educators, public sector leaders and learners to explore the technologies, ideas and challenges shaping our future. By bringing people together, the initiative helps turn conversations into new ideas, partnerships and opportunities for the county.
Understanding employers’ needs and industry direction also helps inform the education and training we provide, ensuring our courses continue to reflect the changing needs of the workplace.
Our presence at the launch comes at an exciting time for our digital and technical provision. We recently received national recognition after winning Educator of the Year at the National Cyber Awards. The award recognises outstanding contributions to cybersecurity education and training, including innovation in teaching, positive learner outcomes and a commitment to developing cyber knowledge, skills and awareness.
We have also been awarded Technical Excellence College (TEC) status, placing us among just five colleges selected nationally to specialise in digital technology training through the programme.
Further strengthening this work, Dan Smale recently joined us as Director of DigiTEC, bringing more than 20 years of experience across central government, higher education and the private sector. His expertise will support the continued development of our digital and technology provision.
Dan Smale said: “The launch highlighted the importance of bringing education, industry and innovation together through our Technical Excellence College (TEC) programme. By working in partnership, we can support economic growth and create more opportunities for learners, businesses and communities across Gloucestershire. We look forward to connecting with partners throughout Gloucestershire Tech Week and continuing our contribution to the county’s thriving technology sector.”
As technology continues to evolve, we will build on these connections to help shape relevant training, support local employers and equip our learners with the skills needed for the future.
We look forward to continuing our work with partners across Gloucestershire to support innovation and help develop the county’s digital and cyber talent.
