Join the conversation shaping the future of skills in the UK
AI could shape jobs faster than most skills systems can adapt. This timely “in conversation” session will examine where AI can genuinely raise productivity, job quality and progression, and where it risks deepening inequality, weakening entry-level pathways, and undermining trust in work.
This event brings together senior voices from policy, employment, digital skills and workforce innovation. Together, they will focus on what matters most now: the practical choices facing employers, policymakers and system leaders as AI becomes embedded across the economy.
Expect a frank, solutions‑oriented discussion on what good AI adoption looks like in the workplace; how we protect fair access to opportunity as roles and routes change; and the role vocational technology can play in helping adults and employers adapt at pace.
This session is for those shaping the future of the UK skills system - and who want to ensure AI supports inclusive growth, resilient organisations, and a workforce equipped to thrive.
Featuring:
- Anthony Painter (Chair), Director of Strategic Engagement, Ufi VocTech Trust
- Antonio Weiss, Author 'AI Demystified' and Senior Partner, The PSC
- Rt Hon. Lord Willetts FRS, President, Resolution Foundation
- Liz Williams MBE, CEO, FutureDotNow
- Rebecca Garrod-Waters, Chief Executive, Ufi VocTech Trust
Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a discussion how the UK can build on the opportunities that AI presents, creating a skills system that empowers individuals, fuels business success, and accelerates economic growth.
Attendees will have access to the Ufi VocTech Showcase taking place in the same venue from 5:30pm. There is no need to register again to attend the Showcase.
Our panellists
Anthony Painter (Chair)
Director of Strategic Engagement, Ufi VocTech Trust
Anthony is Director of Strategic Engagement at Ufi VocTech Trust where he leads the partnership, grants, and public affairs teams. Prior to joining Ufi, Anthony was Director of Policy and External Affairs at the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) and Chief Research & Impact Officer at the RSA where he led social and policy impact programmes from 2016 to 2022.
Antonio Weiss
Author 'AI Demystified' and Senior Partner, The PSC
Antonio is an award-winning technology expert and best-selling author. He has advised the Office for Artificial Intelligence, the UK Space Agency, NHS AI Lab, the Government Digital Service, and other pioneering organisations on AI adoption and digital transformation. He was previously Senior Advisor on Digital, Data & Technology to the Office of Sir Keir Starmer MP on his way to becoming Prime Minister.
Rt Hon. Lord Willetts FRS
President, the Resolution Foundation
The Rt Hon. Lord Willetts FRS is the President of the Resolution Foundation and Chair of the UK Space Agency. He is a visiting Professor at King’s College London and Chair of the Foundation for Science and Technology. He served as the Member of Parliament for Havant (1992-2015), as Minister for Universities and Science (2010-2014) and previously worked at HM Treasury and the No. 10 Policy Unit.
Liz Williams CBE
CEO, FutureDotNow
Liz is CEO of FutureDotNow, a coalition of industry leaders working to ensure that all working age adults have the digital skills they need to benefit their own prosperity and UK productivity. A long-term campaigner on the importance of everyone benefitting from digital technology, Liz is also Deputy Chair of the Government’s Digital Skills Council and previously served as a Social Mobility Commissioner leading on digital and the future of work.
Rebecca Garrod-Waters
CEO, Ufi VocTech Trust
Rebecca is Chief Executive of Ufi VocTech Trust, a grant funder and venture investor focused on unlocking the full potential of technology to improve skills for work and deliver better outcomes for all. To date, Ufi have supported more than 250 organisations with over £38m in grant funding and direct investment. Joining Ufi in 2014, Rebecca has a background in technology and innovation policy, and economic development.
