Quick Read: Coventry University and Midlands Business Insider hosted a roundtable with industry leaders to explore how AI and data can drive business innovation and workforce development across UK sectors.
Coventry University, in partnership with Midlands Business Insider, recently hosted a high-level roundtable to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) and data technologies are transforming UK industries.
Held at the university’s Delia Derbyshire building, the event brought together leaders from major organisations—including Qinetiq, Horiba Mira, Bosch Rexroth, National Grid, and Data Duopoly—to examine the real-world applications of AI and its growing influence across sectors like healthcare, manufacturing, infrastructure, and professional services.
Chaired by Ian Griffin, Deputy Editor of Business Insider Midlands, the discussion highlighted how AI is already helping businesses streamline operations and improve outcomes, such as enhancing NHS patient care and detecting driver fatigue to increase road safety.
Speakers from Coventry University, including James Shuttleworth, Associate Director of the Digital Insight and Future Skills Unit, and Professor James Brusey from the Research Centre for Computational Science and Mathematical Modelling, shared insights from the university’s cutting-edge research on digital transformation, data-informed decision-making, and workforce development.
Photo Credit: Coventry University
A recurring theme was the need for a supportive culture and investment in upskilling. Panellists agreed that AI should be used to enhance human roles, not replace them, and that success depends on clear communication, targeted training, and addressing the skills gap.
“There’s enormous potential in AI to boost efficiency and innovation,” said Dr. Shuttleworth. “But that depends on how organisations develop the right environment and workforce to embrace the changes ahead.”
The roundtable also served as a platform to promote Coventry University’s wider initiatives, including its involvement in Innovate UK’s BridgeAI programme and projects on virtual patient simulation, supercomputing, and sustainable hydrogen transport—efforts that are helping to position the West Midlands as a hub for AI research and technological advancement.
