Engineering training provider Humberside Engineering Training Association (HETA) is to develop artificial intelligence-driven virtual mentors after securing funding from the NOCN Group Foundation.

The year-long project will combine industry insight with scalable delivery and augmented reality interactions. The pan-Humber organisation plans to use the technology to blend physical and online learning to improve engagement and progression for apprentices working towards trade-led roles at its sites in Hull, Grimsby, and Scunthorpe.

HETA, which operates across the Humber region in Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, aims to use the virtual mentors to provide accessible apprenticeship guidance alongside traditional tutor support. The grant was awarded following a competitive bidding process by the Sheffield-headquartered NOCN Group, an international educational charity focused on skills solutions.

Jo Lawson, deputy chief executive at HETA and the organisation’s AI champion, said: “This is a trailblazing programme we’re delighted to be entrusted with. AI offers so much potential to enhance our work, and while those in the trades can rightly be confident that their careers will always be protected and in demand, there is so much scope to support them.

“Being at the start of this skills-boosting opportunity is a real source of pride for HETA and we look forward to seeing where this virtual journey takes us in the coming year.”

Simon Renny, director of strategy and research at NOCN Group, said: “We are proud to support forward-thinking initiatives like HETA’s, which aims to demonstrate how innovation can strengthen the quality and impact of apprenticeship training.

“The NOCN Group Foundation was established to back new ideas, partnerships and approaches that can help shape the future of skills development across the UK, particularly at a time of rapid technological and economic change.

“HETA’s project stood out for its innovative use of AI to enhance apprenticeship support and learner progression, while keeping real trade skills and learner outcomes firmly at the centre.

“Through these inaugural awards, we are supporting projects that explore practical, scalable ways to improve learning, widen opportunity and strengthen skills training outcomes for learners, employers and the wider sector.”