College cuts ribbon on new Institute of Technology building

Derby College Group has officially opened a new educational facility at one of its campuses, which aims to drive innovation, technical skills and industrial collaboration across the region.

The East Midlands Institute of Technology (EMIoT) building at the college’s Roundhouse Campus, aims to address the increasing demand for skilled professionals and in-technology related fields.

The multi-million-pound building is already showing strong outcomes, with 315 students currently enrolled across higher technical programmes, gaining valuable skills that bridge theory with real-world industry practice.

Recently, an official opening and showcase event was held, which brought together employers, civic leaders, education partners and stakeholders from across the region to demonstrate the EMIoT’s powerful role in developing the workforce of tomorrow.

Carol Dixon, director of employer partnerships at DCG, said: “We are incredibly proud of the momentum behind the East Midlands Institute of Technology, with 315 students now enrolled; the growth speaks for itself.

“This marks a real step-change not just for technical education, but for how we build lasting bridges between education and employers.

“The IoT will continue to strengthen partnerships for DCG and help us expand on all the fantastic work already underway.

“The East Midlands is developing the talent pipeline our industries need, and this is only the beginning.”

DCG is a founding partner in the EMIoT, working alongside the University of Derby, Loughborough College and Loughborough University; supported by employers including Rolls-Royce, Toyota, Alstom and Bloc Digital.

The official opening event began with a welcome from Andrew Cochrane, chair of governors at DCG, who shared his pride in seeing the new facilities officially launched and already benefitting learners.

He said: “It was a pleasure to welcome everyone to see these impressive facilities in action.

“This marks a significant milestone for DCG and for the region. The EMIoT is already bringing its vision to life, and we are proud to see it officially open and actively supporting our students and employers.”

Attendees were then able to explore cutting-edge facilities and hear how the EMIoT is already strengthening partnerships between education and industry.

The building features a BLISS Immersive Learning Suite, a 360-degree virtual environment for construction and real-world scenario planning.

It also has a X2O Hybrid Teaching Suite, which enables seamless live collaboration between students, lecturers and industry experts across the UK and beyond.

Rachel Quinn, executive director of the East Midlands Institute of Technology, said: “The East Midlands Institute of Technology is more than a building; it is a platform for innovation and a symbol of regional ambition.

“We are building a skills ecosystem which connects educators, employers and learners to drive real-world impact.

“The enthusiasm shown by those at this event proves the East Midlands is ready to lead in digital transformation, sustainable engineering and advanced manufacturing.

“By investing in people and partnerships, we are investing in the future, and the benefits will be felt across communities and industries for many years to come.”

To find out more about the East Midlands Institute of Technology click here.