The University of Hull and CATCH have announced plans to collaborate on a series of key opportunities to expand the skills and research landscape in the region.

The two organisations have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to support talent development and research initiatives.

As part of this collaboration, the University of Hull and CATCH will work together on several key initiatives, including:

• Developing joint training opportunities, including Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programmes and short courses tailored to CATCH industry members.
• Exploring opportunities for University of Hull students to utilise CATCH facilities as part of their curriculum development.
• Seeking joint research funding to advance industry-led projects.
• Identifying opportunities for joint Knowledge Exchange funding to support collaborative innovation.
• Enhancing apprenticeship programmes to bridge the gap between academic study and industry practice.
• Organising training days focused on project practice and data analysis.

These initiatives aim to provide students and industry partners with hands-on experience and collaborative opportunities that support career development and innovation at the same time as strengthening the links between academia and industry to drive innovation and workforce excellence

Professor Fiona Matthews, Pro-Vice Chancellor for Research an Enterprise at the University of Hull, said: “Fostering collaboration between education and industry is vital in driving sector-wide growth and sustainability.

“We are thrilled to formalise our partnership with CATCH, an organisation that shares our commitment to developing industry-ready talent and driving forward innovation. This collaboration will provide invaluable opportunities for students, researchers, and industry partners to work together, ensuring that we continue to address the evolving needs of the sector and the region.”

CATCH is a leading industry-led not-for-profit training facility supporting the process, energy, engineering, and renewable sectors. Based in the Humber region it aims to ensure the regional workforce is equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary for the future.

David Talbot, CEO of CATCH joined Professor Matthews for a signing event at the Enterprise Centre.

Mr Talbot said “This partnership enables us to help and bridge the gap between industry and academia. By combining the University of Hull’s academic capabilities with CATCH’s practical, hands-on approach to training, we are setting a new standard for excellence in industrial training. Together, we can create opportunities for students and industry partners, with the aim of preparing the workforce for the future.”