Halesowen College is pleased to announce the appointment of Richard Johnson as Innovation Consultant for Digital as testament to its commitment in supporting innovation and technical excellence within the local community.

This new role has been developed through Innovate UK and the Further Education Innovation Fund, with funds distributed to support local FE colleges across the region.  Innovate UK is the UK’s innovation agency which helps companies to grow through the development and commercialisation of new products, processes and services.

This project will be bringing five Further Education colleges from across the region together to support SMEs to foster innovation and make efficiencies across the business.

Innovation Consultants will be placed in each of the five partner colleges across the Black Country, each specializing in a key area, such as manufacturing, engineering, CNC, automotive and robotics, with Halesowen College leading on digital innovation, including Cyber Security, E-Commerce and Artificial Intelligence.  Other colleges key to this project are, Dudley College, Walsall College, South Staffordshire College, and City of Wolverhampton.

Richard Johnson brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the field of innovation. Within his new role, as Innovation Consultant, Richard will provide local SMEs looking to implement digital projects with free audits, project advice and consultations for local SMEs looking to improve efficiency within their companies.

Jacquie Carman, Principal and Chief Executive said “We are thrilled to appoint Richard Johnson as our Innovation Consultant. His passion for driving innovation and supporting local businesses will be instrumental in helping SMEs thrive in today’s digital landscape.”

Commenting on his new role, Richard Johnson said “I am looking forward to sharing my experience and extensive knowledge in Digital Technology with local and regional SMEs. The goal of this project is to help businesses develop innovative practices utilising emerging technologies.”

For more information contact Richard Johnson on 0121 602 7777.