East Midlands Institute of Technology opens new facility in Loughborough

The East Midlands Institute of Technology (EMIoT) has officially opened its new building in Loughborough, marking an important moment for education and skills development in the region.

The EMIoT is a collaboration between Loughborough University, Loughborough College, Derby College Group, and the University of Derby. The partnership combines academic expertise with employer engagement to provide a research-focused and industry-aligned learning environment.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to mark the occasion, with the Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire, Mike Kapur, and the Mayor of Charnwood, David Northage, leading the event. The EMIoT also operates facilities at the University of Derby Enterprise Centre and Derby College’s main Roundhouse campus.

The initiative is supported by funding from the Department for Education (DfE). It aims to equip students with the skills needed for the UK’s Clean Energy and Net Zero sectors. The Institute expects to welcome more than 2,000 learners by the 2027/28 academic year.

Professor Rachel Thompson, Deputy Vice-Chancellor at Loughborough University, said: “We’re extremely proud to be part of EMIoT, and it’s fantastic to see this impressive new facility officially opened. Through the Institute, the University will play a vital role in developing the highly skilled graduates who will drive the UK’s net zero transition and lead its green and digital revolution.”

Corrie Harris, CEO at Loughborough College Group, added: “We are delighted to see the East Midlands Institute of Technology officially open the doors to its latest facility. As educators, our role is to prepare students with the green, clean, and digital skills that employers increasingly demand. The EMIoT provides a unique environment for this, helping our learners to succeed in a fast-changing world.”

The EMIoT works with several employers, including Alstom, Bloc Digital, Fujitsu, NESO (National Grid), Rolls-Royce, Toyota and Uniper, to ensure its programmes meet the needs of industry. This collaboration helps prepare graduates with the technical and professional skills required by the modern workforce.

Courses offered at the Institute include Sustainable Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies, Information and Communication Technology, Science and Mathematics, and Construction, Planning and the Built Environment. Through these areas of study, the EMIoT aims to support sustainability, innovation, and regional skills growth across the East Midlands.

The opening of the Loughborough facility builds on the foundations set out in 2023, when the Institute first announced its plans to help drive the UK’s green and digital transformation.

Image source: East Midlands Institute of Technology (EMIoT)