Key appointment made at Institute of Technology

A new tech learning hub, involving the University of Derby and Derby College Group, has made a key appointment.

Social policy expert Rachel Quinn has been appointed executive director of the East Midlands Institute of Technology.

Rachel previously held senior roles in public sector, not-for-profit and social enterprise organisations, including the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership.

She will lead the development of the East Midlands IoT, building relationships with partners and stakeholders and driving forward plans for establishing the IoT as a key provider of technical skills development in the East Midlands.

The East Midlands IoT, which is a partnership between Derby College Group, the University of Derby, Loughborough College and Loughborough University, aims to deliver a world-class, research-orientated, employer-led ‘learning factory’.

It is already working closely with employers, including Rolls-Royce, Toyota, Alstom and Bloc Digital to ensure programmes deliver a workforce with the right skills for the future.

Students will be taught at three new centres based at Loughborough College, Derby College Group’s Stephenson Building and the University of Derby’s Enterprise Centre, having secured £15 million of investment from the Department for Education for cutting-edge teaching facilities.

Here they will develop the technical skills and expertise needed to prepare for a zero-carbon future and the demands of a digital economy.

Rachel said: “I am thrilled to be taking up this exciting new role that places skills and education at the heart of economic growth in the East Midlands and am looking forward to working with partners as we develop the character and culture of the EM IoT.

“I will be drawing on the experience and knowledge I have gained over the past 17 years in skills and education and inclusion agendas among others to ensure that the IoT is best placed to meet the skills demands of the future economy in our region and beyond.”

Professor Chris Bussell, pro vice-chancellor dean of the College of Science and Engineering at the University of Derby, said: “The IoT partners are delighted to welcome Rachel to the role of executive director.

“The launch of the IoT is an exciting next phase in skills development in the East Midlands, strengthened by a strong academic and industry partnership and led by an experienced, multi-talented executive director.”