Learner Voices Help Shape Future Skills Discussion at UWTSD
Students and graduates were at the heart of a skills roundtable hosted by the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), at its Swansea Waterfront campus, which brought together Welsh Government, education, and industry leaders to discuss the skills Wales needs for the future.
The event welcomed Cefin Campbell MS, Deputy Minister for Skills, and Tertiary Education, alongside employers, educators, and skills partners to explore how collaboration can support economic growth, innovation, and the transition to net zero.
Chaired by Sharron Lusher, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Further Education) at UWTSD, the discussion focused on the importance of creating flexible routes into skilled careers, strengthening links between education and industry, and ensuring learners are equipped with the skills needed for a changing economy. Participants highlighted the importance of embedding skills development throughout education and training, while ensuring learners remain at the centre of future workforce planning.
Former student and CNC Machinist and Technical Demonstrator, Tamzin Brewer, shared how skills competitions helped build her confidence and shape her career. She is now helping to train and support the next generation of entrants.
She said: “The only barrier is ourselves. Skills competitions gave me the confidence to push myself, develop new skills and open doors I never thought possible. From competing through WorldSkills, to winning a gold medal, every opportunity has helped me grow. Now I’m proud to be supporting others on their own journey.”
Joseph Tobin, a BEng Materials Science and Engineering Degree Apprentice graduate and Production Specialist at Tata Steel’s Llanwern site, highlighted the importance of apprenticeships and lifelong learning.
He said: “The opportunities I’ve had through education and apprenticeships have helped me progress my career and achieve a first-class degree. Apprentices are the backbone of industry and investing in their skills is crucial to our future.”
The roundtable also heard from Tim James, a recent UWTSD Automotive Engineering graduate leading a University Knowledge Transfer Partnership project with packaging manufacturer Coppice, aimed at improving efficiency, reducing waste, and strengthening competitiveness.
He said: “This KTP gives me the chance to put what I’ve learned into practice, but also to keep learning every day from both Coppice and UWTSD. It feels like the perfect bridge between university and the start of my career.”
Oscar McNaughton, Lead Design Engineer and former degree apprentice at UWTSD’s CBM Wales, reflected on becoming the first person to represent the UK in Additive Manufacturing at WorldSkills.
He said: “Starting university as an apprentice gave me the opportunity to develop specialist skills while working on real projects from day one. Competing at WorldSkills was an incredible experience and the support I received has helped shape my career. I’m also now proud to be helping the next generation of learners.”
The roundtable also highlighted the Welsh Government’s Inspiring Skills Excellence in Wales project, which celebrates the achievements of learners, apprentices and young people developing world-class skills through competitions and vocational learning. Through learner stories and role models, the project aims to raise aspirations, showcase the value of technical and professional skills, and inspire more people to explore the opportunities available through skills, apprenticeships and lifelong learning.
Deputy Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education, Cefin Campbell, said: “It was inspiring to hear directly from learners and graduates whose skills journeys have been shaped by apprenticeships, higher education and skills competitions. Their experiences demonstrate the importance of creating flexible, high-quality pathways that help people develop their talents and achieve their ambitions.
“Through initiatives such as Inspiring Skills Excellence in Wales, we are showcasing the achievements of learners and helping to inspire the next generation to pursue the skills that will support their careers and contribute to Wales’s future prosperity. As we look ahead, it is vital that learners remain at the heart of our discussions about the skills, opportunities and workforce Wales will need in the years to come.”
The event also highlighted UWTSD’s growing partnership with WorldSkills UK. Following its successful hosting of the WorldSkills UK National Finals in 2025, the University will again host competitions at its Swansea Waterfront campus in 2026, reinforcing its role in supporting technical excellence and vocational skills development.
Sharron Lusher said: “The roundtable demonstrated the value of bringing learners, employers, education providers, and policymakers together to discuss the future of skills in Wales. The most important voices in these conversations are those of our learners and apprentices, who will be the future workforce driving innovation and economic growth.
“At UWTSD, we are committed to working closely with our FE partners, industry, and Welsh Government to ensure our provision reflects the needs of employers while creating opportunities for learners to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to succeed.
“Our partnership with WorldSkills UK and our strong apprenticeship offer are key examples of how we are helping to develop talent, raise aspirations and support the skills Wales needs both now and in the future.”
Further Information
Rebecca Davies
Executive Press and Media Relations Officer
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: rebecca.davies@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 07384 467071