Kao Data and TSCG announce partnership to grow digital skills in Stockport

Kao Data, the specialist developer and operator of data centres, has announced a partnership with Trafford and Stockport Colleges Group (TSCG) to help develop vital tech and digital skills in college-age students. 

This partnership demonstrates the potential of public-private collaboration to drive regional transformation, while solidifying Greater Manchester’s reputation as a hub for digital innovation and economic growth.

Lizzy McDowell, Marketing Manager at Kao Data, said:

“We’re thrilled to be working with such a forward-thinking college group to ensure that the curriculum and their students are ready for the future.

“The tech and AI economy is growing rapidly and at Kao Data, we want students to be prepared for the future and to have the right skills for the wide range of tech industry job opportunities that will be available to them.

“As our 40 MW data centre begins to take shape, we are firmly committed to being a part of the Stockport community and education sector and playing a part in the digital strategy from Greater Manchester Combined Authority.”

Tracey Wood, Assistant Principal, Skills and Employer Partnerships at the Trafford and Stockport College Group, said:

“The new partnership with Kao Data represents a significant step in shaping the future workforce for the digital economy. By aligning education with industry needs, we are creating real opportunities for students to engage with cutting-edge technology and sustainable innovation. Together, we are not just bridging the skills gap, we are setting a new standard for collaboration between education and business, ensuring Stockport becomes a leading hub for digital and economic growth.“

Kao Data and TSCG will host regular events to engage students, educators, and the wider community, promoting clear pathways into technology-focused careers. The first careers event for college students at Bask took place earlier this year, and was organised by TSCG and Marketing Stockport, and sponsored by Kao Data.

It saw more than 100 students and parents attend to hear the inspiring career journeys from local Stockport business people, and hosted a panel discussion with an open Q&A session for the students.

Kao Data’s partnership with TSCG will also include staff development, with tailored continuing professional development (CPD) sessions and cutting-edge resources delivered to align teaching practices with evolving industry needs. Kao Data will bring industry expertise to curriculum board discussions, ensuring a strong focus on sustainable and high-performance data technologies within educational frameworks.

Additionally, Kao Data’s sponsorship of the TSCG Employer Awards demonstrates its commitment to recognising the achievements of apprentices and the employers driving regional innovation and investment in skills. Central to this initiative is Kao Data’s £350 million state-of-the-art hyperscale data centre in Stockport, due to open in 2027, which will underpin the growth of the AI, digital and tech economies right across the North West. 

This groundbreaking partnership marks the beginning of a journey to equip the next generation with the skills and experience needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Together, Kao Data and TSCG are shaping the future of work and fostering a thriving, innovation-driven region.

Pictured: Danielle Holt, Group Employer Partnership Manager for Trafford and Stockport College Group; and Lizzy McDowell, Marketing Manager at Kao Data.