Productivity and Skills
Lead Officer
Julie Nugent - Director of Productivity and Skills
Portfolio Lead Member
Cllr. George Duggins - Leader of Coventry City Council
We are committed to ensuring that every resident has the opportunity to reach their potential by providing people with the skills to obtain good jobs and careers. To do this we are focussed on improving skill levels, developing better connections between residents and training offers, while also increasing employment opportunities.
At the same time, we are working with local and national businesses to ensure that business growth is accelerated through access to a skilled workforce.
Find out what we’re doing in your area
What we’re doing
Levy Transfer
We have already helped large employers transfer over £21 million of levy funding to smaller businesses in the West Midlands to support the employment of apprentices.
Mentoring
Through our Mayor’s Mentors scheme, more than 10,000 young people have gained access to a mentor across the region.
Construction
Our Construction programme has so far helped more than 2,000 people over two years, with over 50 per cent moving into employment within weeks of completing the course.
Adult Education
Last year we took over a £125 million Adult Education Budget for the region from central government. This funding is being used to to drive up skill levels amongst our communities.
Regional Skills Plan
See our roadmapSkills Deal
Read the agreementLocal Skills Report
Read the reportOur areas of focus
Adult Education Budget
In August 2019, the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) took over responsibility for the Adult Education Budget (AEB) and how it is delivered. For the year 2020/21,...
Apprenticeship Levy Fund
Are you a small to medium-sized enterprise (SME) thinking about taking on an apprentice but not sure if you can afford the training costs? We can help you. Nearly 2,000...
Automotive
We want to ensure the region’s automotive businesses remain competitive and are ready to adopt emerging new technologies and meet future needs for electrification with...
Commonwealth Games Jobs and Skills Academy
Find out about the funding and courses available to support residents into employment and upskilling ahead of the Commonwealth Games, 2022.
Construction
We fund free training to find local jobs for people wanting to enter the Construction sector.
Digital
The West Midlands has the fastest growing digital sector outside of London and an ambition to become a global tech sector. To achieve this, we need to create the right...
Employment Support
Virtual careers events Join us for a series of virtual careers events for West Midland residents of all ages. The events will explore the benefits of working within...
Free Construction Retrofitting Courses
The West Midlands Combined Authority is working with training providers across the region to offer FREE construction retrofitting courses.
New funding for Level 3 qualifications
We have a new fund of £9.2m available for adults in the West Midlands to gain Level 3 qualifications, providing the skills wanted by local employers.
Kickstart
The West Midlands Combined Authority is proud to be supporting the Kickstart Scheme, which will see thousands of young people gain valuable skills and experience to help...
Mayor's Mentors
Everyone should have the chance to succeed in life, no matter what their background. Mayor’s Mentors is a new initiative launched by The Mayor of the West Midlands to...
Sector-based Work Academy Programmes
An opportunity for local unemployed people to learn new skills in a different area of work.
Hospitality
Discover what training and career opportunities are available in the hospitality sector.
Youth Offer
Careers advice, information on apprenticeships and work placements for young people in the West Midlands.