A Welsh Government Minister has seen first-hand how a major new skills partnership is poised to transform education and workforce development across north east Wales.
Vikki Howells, Minister for Further and Higher Education, visited Coleg Cambria’s Bersham Road site in Wrexham to explore progress on the Advanced Skills Hub (ASH) — a flagship collaboration designed to align technical education with regional industry needs.
During the visit, she met staff and learners, toured the college’s cutting-edge facilities, and heard how the Hub will help shape the future workforce.
The Minister spoke with Karl Jackson, Assistant Principal for the Institute of Technology and Site Lead at Bersham Road, and Nick Tyson, Vice Principal for the Institute of Technology and ASH Project Lead, to learn more about the college’s forward-thinking approach to technical and vocational training.
She also joined discussions with Chief Executive Yana Williams and Principal Sue Price, alongside Paul Davies, Deputy Vice Chancellor at Wrexham University, to examine plans for the Hub and wider regional priorities.
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Vikki Howells said: “It was wonderful to visit Coleg Cambria as it gave me the chance to see first-hand the ambition and expertise that will underpin the Advanced Skills Hub.
“What I saw is a brilliant example of the kind of employer-led, regionally driven skills provision we want to build on across Wales.
“It was also great to have a discussion with students and staff about the future of tertiary education, and the conversations held and contributions given reinforced just how vital it is that we hear from as many voices as possible through our call for submissions.”
Discussions also covered developments linked to energy, the environment, Wylfa Nuclear Power Station, and ASH — underlining how these interconnected initiatives are driving sustainable growth and meeting future skills demands across the region.
A round-table session followed, focusing on the future of tertiary education in Wales. Learners ranging from entry level to degree apprenticeships shared their ambitions and the obstacles they face, while highlighting how Cambria’s strong employer partnerships are already creating clearer progression routes and meaningful, real-world opportunities.
ASH represents a significant investment in skills, education and regional growth. Led jointly by Coleg Cambria and Wrexham University, the initiative is backed by substantial funding from Medr and aims to respond directly to employer demand.
Nick said: “It was fantastic to welcome the Minister and ensure learner voices were front and centre. The round table highlighted both the challenges students face and their ambition, from those just starting out to those progressing into degree apprenticeships.
“We explored how the Advanced Skills Hub will operate as a new type of provider for businesses across Flintshire, Denbighshire, Wrexham and the North West.
“By offering flexible pathways from Level 2 through to Level 7 – including apprenticeships, micro-credentials and workforce development – we can respond quickly to skills gaps, strengthen employer partnerships and create meaningful progression opportunities.”
Karl added: “Their aspirations, alongside honest discussions about barriers to education, reinforced how vital it is that we continue opening doors.
“We also shared how our close work with employers is already transforming outcomes for students. The Advanced Skills Hub represents a bold step forward, ensuring learners gain the skills employers need now and in the future.”
Wrexham University Vice Chanceller Paul Davies added: “It was fantastic to discuss the opportunities around the creation of an Advanced Skills Hub (ASH) in partnership with Coleg Cambria.
“Working together with local employers, we will create clear pathways that give students the skills and experience they need to succeed in tomorrow’s workforce.”
Focused on high-growth areas including digital technologies, green skills, advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity and health leadership, the Advanced Skills Hub is scheduled to officially launch in September 2026 — marking a major step forward for skills development in north east Wales.
