How do we prepare people and businesses for a future we can’t fully predict? In this episode of the Knowledge Exchange Podcast, Lucie Burton is joined by Matthew Ord, Chair of the Tees Valley Business Board, to discuss the evolving regional skills agenda and the role of collaboration in shaping the future workforce.

From AI adoption and workforce readiness to apprenticeships, leadership development and employer-led skills planning, the conversation explores how education providers and businesses can work together to respond to changing industry needs.

The episode also highlights the opportunities presented through the Adult Skills Fund provision, supporting organisations to upskill their workforce through accessible, industry-informed training in areas such as leadership, management and emerging technologies. Find out more about the programme here: teessi.de/adult-skills-fund

Together, Lucie and Matthew reflect on what success looks like for regional skills development — and why agile, responsive partnerships between education and industry are key to driving growth across Tees Valley.

In this episode of The Knowledge Exchange, host David Roberts is joined by Dr Clair Cooper, Research Fellow at our Net Zero Industry Innovation Centre.

Clair shares her journey from the water industry into academia and explores her work on ensuring the transition to a low carbon economy is fair for both businesses and communities. As part of the Research England Hydrogen Innovation Project, Clair’s work contributes to a broader effort to support innovation, skills development and regional growth through hydrogen.

The conversation focuses on the role of hydrogen in Teesside’s industrial future, the region’s unique infrastructure, and why a “just transition” is critical to long-term success. From engaging local communities through innovative digital tools and virtual reality, to building skills pipelines that start in primary school, this episode highlights how research is shaping a more inclusive approach to decarbonisation.

The discussion also tackles trust, public perception, and the importance of learning from the region’s industrial past to create new opportunities for future generations.

In this episode, Dave Roberts, Communications Manager at Teesside University, is joined by Dr Gillian Taylor, Associate Professor of Analytical Chemistry. Dr Taylor discusses her career journey, her passion for analytical chemistry, and how interdisciplinary research spanning science, archaeology and agriculture can create real-world impact. The conversation explores long-term evidence, collaboration beyond academia, and the importance of making research accessible.

In this episode, Lucie Burton speaks with Dr Suzanne Hague, Principal Lecturer in Enterprise and Knowledge Exchange, and Rachel Burke, Director of Compliance and Risk at Tracerco, about the realities of female leadership in Teesside. They discuss their personal journeys into leadership, the importance of confidence and authenticity, and how women can support each other in professional spaces. The conversation explores challenges such as imposter syndrome and balancing leadership styles, while celebrating progress in creating inclusive, supportive workplaces. Both guests highlight the role of mentorship, resilience, and visibility in empowering more women to take on leadership roles across the region. They also share insights from Tracerco’s leadership development programme delivered in partnership with Teesside University.

In this episode of the Knowledge Exchange Podcast, we speak with Dr Michael Mulvihill, Vice-Chancellor’s Research Fellow at Teesside University. Michael discusses his research into how vast infrastructures — from nuclear deterrence systems to space surveillance technologies — shape everyday life and wider society. Focusing on his work with RAF Fylingdales, a ballistic missile early warning and space-tracking station in North Yorkshire, he explores the intersections of defence, technology and culture, and considers the local and global implications of space security.

Discover how TaperedPlus is transforming roofing design with the power of AI. In this episode, CEO Aman Chahal joins Teesside University academics Alessandro Di Stefano and Farzad Rahimian to share how a Knowledge Transfer Partnership is streamlining traditionally manual workflows, boosting efficiency and shaping the future of construction tech.

Tune in to hear how AI, deep learning and university-industry collaboration are raising the roof on innovation.

In the very first episode of our podcast, Lucie Burton (Commercial Project Manager at Teesside University) sits down with Jamie Pell, Director at AM Training and Head of Client Relationships at AM Global. Jamie opens up about his ADHD diagnosis and how it's shaped his business journey, leadership and life. From navigating burnout to building a purpose-driven company that empowers people, this conversation covers the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. They also explore:✅ the impact of the Help to Grow: Management programme✅ embracing neurodiversity in the workplace✅ how AI is transforming work✅ the growth of AM Global✅ the power of networking and collaboration. This episode is packed with real talk, inspiration and practical insight for anyone interested in leadership, learning differences or growing a values-led business.