The West Midlands is buzzing with AI innovation, but how are local businesses adapting to this exciting new era? With an impressive 70,000 people employed in the AI industry and leaders promising even more growth, it's time to explore the region's unique approach to embracing this technology.
The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) has identified over 140 AI companies in the region, and they're encouraging even more to join the AI revolution. Their recent AI and Tech Prospectus outlines three ambitious missions: to become a nationally recognized AI testbed for public service innovation, boost business productivity, and establish an AI academy offering free training for adults. But here's where it gets controversial...
Andy Hague, the lead of TechWM, has a strong opinion on the matter. He's tired of the doomsday predictions that AI will replace most jobs. Instead, he believes the focus should be on increasing awareness and understanding of AI's potential benefits.
"A vast majority of people, probably over 70% of the general population, can't articulate what AI is or how it might impact their lives," Hague emphasizes. He argues that small business owners, in particular, may not realize the transformative power of AI, quantum computing, and cyber technologies for their widget-making enterprises.
Tech WM, working with businesses, academia, and the public sector, aims to bridge this knowledge gap. They'll provide feedback to the WMCA to help achieve these missions and drive the region's digital tech agenda.
The West Midlands Cyber Hub, opened in Birmingham, offers a space for businesses to seek guidance and stay updated on the latest developments. Additionally, several AI and cyber faculties opened in the region in 2025, with the goal of making the West Midlands a leader in skills training and highly competitive.
The University of Wolverhampton's Centre for Cyber Resilience and Artificial Intelligence (CYBRAI) and Aston University's Capgemini AI Centre for Excellence are just a few examples of the region's commitment to AI education and innovation.
Mayor Richard Parker and the WMCA have announced an ambitious £10m strategy, predicting that AI will become a core skill akin to math and English. Manny Athwal, the chief executive and founder of the School of Coding & AI in Birmingham and Wolverhampton, believes tech-education is vital across all subjects.
The school, in partnership with the University of Wolverhampton, offers courses in computer science, business management, and health and social care, with AI integrated across the curriculum. Their goal is to ensure students gain practical experience with AI, learn to challenge and validate its outputs, and most importantly, understand how to work alongside AI rather than being replaced by it.
Encouraging mature learners to embrace AI is crucial, Athwal adds. He calls on the industry not to leave it to the next generation, highlighting the importance of lifelong learning.
Shakielah Bibi, a 41-year-old student at the school, agrees. She says learning about AI has "opened doors" for her, allowing her to develop her skills and stay relevant in a rapidly changing world.
Christianah Abayomi-Daniel, a former nurse and health and social care student, echoes these sentiments, emphasizing how AI has enhanced her studies and daily life.
Hague describes this period as a "fascinating time" for the region as the AI sector grows and the initial hype begins to settle. While the West Midlands may rank "pretty low" in terms of pure outputs compared to other areas, it's still highly regarded due to the infancy of many AI technologies.
The future looks bright, with the WMCA's targets for job creation and growth. Athwal hopes to see the region become less fragmented and is confident that government funding will follow, allowing the West Midlands to take the lead.
So, what's your take on the West Midlands' AI journey? Do you think they're on the right track to becoming a leader in AI innovation? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
