Hartpury University and Hartpury College have highlighted the importance of collaboration between education, industry and innovators as College Principal Claire Whitworth joined regional leaders for a panel discussion at Gloucestershire Tech Week 2026.
Taking place on Monday 12 October at the Jet Age Museum in Gloucester, the discussion formed part of a five-day programme celebrating technology, innovation and the county's growing digital economy.
Claire joined fellow members of Gloucestershire's Business Board for a panel discussion titled Greater Than the Sum: Where Gloucestershire's Strengths Meet, exploring how businesses, universities, colleges and the wider innovation community can work together to create new opportunities across the region.
The session brought together perspectives from across the county to consider how Gloucestershire can build on its collective strengths, strengthen partnerships and support future economic growth.
Hartpury College's involvement reflects its ongoing commitment to working closely with industry, embracing emerging technologies and preparing students for the changing demands of the workplace.
Through its industry partnerships and career-focused approach to education, Hartpury plays an important role in developing the skills and talent needed to support the region's future.
Claire Whitworth, Principal at Hartpury College, said: "Gloucestershire has a wealth of expertise across education, business and innovation, and bringing these strengths together is key to unlocking new opportunities for our communities.
"At Hartpury, we're passionate about ensuring that education and industry work hand in hand, helping young people develop the skills, knowledge and confidence they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
"Gloucestershire Tech Week, founded by CyNam and sponsored by Space AM, is a fantastic opportunity to strengthen those connections, share ideas and explore how we can work collectively to support innovation and future growth across the county."
Innovation is an important part of Hartpury's wider approach to education and industry engagement. Initiatives such as the Hartpury Digital Innovation Farm demonstrate how the institution is embracing technology and collaboration to support developments in agriculture and related industries.
By connecting education with real-world innovation, Hartpury continues to create opportunities for students to engage with emerging technologies and gain insight into the evolving needs of employers.
Gloucestershire Tech Week 2026 brings together technology leaders, businesses, educators and innovators through a series of events designed to showcase the county's expertise and encourage greater collaboration.
Hartpury College's participation reinforces its commitment to contributing to Gloucestershire's innovation community and helping to develop the skilled workforce of the future.
