A CROSS-SECTION of major players in the region’s tech space came together to address the digital skills gap and officially launch Generator’s Digital Bootcamp programme.

Hosted at Live Theatre, in Newcastle, attendees witnessed a lively panel discussion featuring North East England Chamber of Commerce chief executive James Ramsbotham, Alison Shaw, from North-East Futures UTC, and Orange Bus chief executive Julian Leighton.

The Digital Bootcamp offers North-East companies the chance to arm their staff, especially those starting in the industry, with practical hands-on digital skills.

It is being delivered by some of the region’s most successful tech companies who were on hand to throw their support behind the programme and field questions from the business and education communities.

Jim Mawdsley, Generator chief executive, said: “It was interesting to hear the issues facing both the education sector and digital agencies when it comes to the lack of skills.

“It seems that although we talk about this often, little action is being taken to solve pain points such as team work, communication, confidence, pitching and collaboration.”

“The Bootcamp can eventually work directly with universities to prepare students before or after they graduate, help businesses find great new staff and give the opportunity for those struggling to get into the industry the opportunity to come face to face with it.”

Mr Ramsbotham added: “The North-East already has a global reputation for the quality of its creative digital capability. “However, this is a very dynamic and rapidly developing sector and we need to work even harder to remain at the leading-edge of this exciting industry.

“Generator's Digital Bootcamp provides an invaluable and forward-thinking solution.”

Delivered over an eight-week period on a day release basis starting in January, the programme will offer insight into the digital sector, agency and project management experience and soft skills training.