Ayrshire College Hosts Regional Economic Strategy Event
Ayrshire College recently welcomed Tom Arthur, Minister for Employment and Investment, alongside leaders in business, public services, and community organisations from across Ayrshire, to the ‘Making and Keeping the £ in Ayrshire’ event at its Willie Mackie Skills Hub on the Kilwinning Campus. As a key partner in the Ayrshire Regional Economic Strategy (RES), Ayrshire College was proud to host this gathering to reflect on the progress of Scotland’s first regional economic strategy to embed Community Wealth Building as a foundation for sustainable, community-led economic growth.
Launched in June 2023, the Ayrshire Regional Economic Strategy was developed by Ayrshire’s councils in collaboration with regional partners, including Ayrshire College, to empower Ayrshire’s economy through skills development, local partnerships, and community engagement. The College supports these priorities by building a skilled workforce and advancing local business growth through training, innovation, and collaboration.
Angela Cox, Principal and Chief Executive of Ayrshire College, emphasised the College’s dedication to Ayrshire’s economic growth: “We are proud to contribute to the Ayrshire Regional Economic Strategy. Our focus on skills, innovation, and partnerships allows us to deliver unique educational experiences that meet the region’s needs. As a committed partner, we’re developing the talent, resilience, and creativity needed for Ayrshire’s economy to thrive—both now and in the future.”
Through its role in the RES, Ayrshire College provides critical support across several priority areas:
- Skills Development and Training: The College’s programmes equip students and apprentices with hands-on experience and pathways into employment. With an emphasis on sustainable technology and advanced manufacturing, Ayrshire College prepares the local workforce with skills to support growth and innovation.
- Industry Partnerships: Collaboration with local businesses allows Ayrshire College to meet regional needs. The College aligns its programmes with employer demands, making skills development accessible and impactful for the Ayrshire community.
- Community Wealth Building: Supporting the RES vision, Ayrshire College empowers local talent to contribute meaningfully to Ayrshire’s economy, preparing students for roles that build community wealth and sustainability.
Tom Arthur, Minister for Employment and Investment, highlighted the role of Community Wealth Building in regional development: “The Scottish Government is committed to supporting regional economic partnerships to create and sustain jobs and grow local and regional wealth. Inspired by the example of Ayrshire, our Community Wealth Building Bill will support this approach to economic development.”
The event featured a panel discussion on skills and innovation as essential components of Ayrshire’s economic future, along with key achievements from the Year One Delivery Plan.
Councillor Martin Dowey, Leader of South Ayrshire Council and Chair of the Ayrshire Economic Joint Committee, praised the collaborative effort: "We are delighted to be hosting this event which brings together businesses from across the region to hear about the challenges and opportunities around working and doing business in Ayrshire."
“A lot has happened in the 15 months since the strategy was launched and it is vital that we collaborate and continue to deliver for our communities."
“What has been most encouraging is the determination and shared vision by so many to make a difference to this and future generations.”
The Ayrshire Regional Economic Strategy focuses on six key themes essential for a prosperous Ayrshire:
- Support for Enterprise
- Fair Work
- Innovation
- Good Health and Wellbeing
- Stronger Places and Communities
- Enhancing Natural Capital
Ayrshire College remains committed to these goals, providing the talent and skills needed to shape a resilient, forward-looking future for Ayrshire.
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