Marvin OnumonuMitie has launched a new apprenticeship programme focused on artificial intelligence (AI) skills, with the first group of apprentices starting this week.
The ‘AI Productivity Champion’ scheme is being delivered by Corndel in partnership with Imperial College London and is backed by Microsoft.
Mitie plans to train 150 workers this year through the course, which is the first of three AI programmes the company is rolling out.
Apprentices are based across the UK, including in Birmingham and Nottingham, and work in a variety of roles such as engineering, HR and project management.
The 12-month course will teach practical AI and data skills aimed at helping staff use tools like Microsoft Copilot in their day-to-day work.
Those on the programme will also support and train colleagues to help integrate AI across the workforce.
Kathryn Dolan, chief people officer at Mitie and co-executive sponsor of the academy, said: “We’re incredibly proud to welcome our first cohort of colleagues to Mitie’s AI Productivity Champion programme.
“This marks a significant milestone in our journey to equip our people with the digital skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world.
“By investing in cutting-edge training and partnering with industry leaders like Corndel, Imperial, and Microsoft, we’re adding another string to Mitie’s bow in its digital transformation – reinforcing our commitment to innovation, growth, and colleague development.”
Sean Cosgrove, chief commercial officer at Corndel, said: “Mitie is tackling one of the most important challenges in AI adoption, understanding that success isn’t just about access to the tools, it’s about equipping people with the right skills.
“Their ambitious, first-mover approach means they will unlock the benefits of AI faster than most.
“At Corndel, we believe AI is the future of work, and organisations that invest early in the right skills will drive meaningful innovation and growth.”
Cosgrove added: “Through our AI Academy, powered by Microsoft’s cutting-edge tools and Imperial’s world-leading insight, we’re helping Mitie build a workforce that is AI-ready.”
