Leeds 'a formidable force' in data and AI, says digital festival boss
Leeds “is now a formidable force” in data and AI, the director of the city’s digital festival has said.
Deb Hetherington made the comments following the conclusion of Leeds Digital’s Mini-Fest last week ahead of the full-scale annual Leeds Digital Festival in the autumn.
Hundreds of delegates took part in the Mini-Fest event between April 21 and 23, with sessions including preparing a Northern workforce for an AI-driven future.
Deb Hetherington said: "Leeds is now a formidable force in the data and AI space, a shift that is sparking the creation of entirely new career paths like machine learning engineering and AI ethics.
"This year’s Mini-Fest was curated to capture this energy, demonstrating how these emerging technologies are unlocking doors for Northern talent and building a resilient, high-growth economy that provides opportunities for everyone. This is a pivotal time for our city as we look toward a future defined by innovation."
Marian Cafferty, Senior Vice President Consulting Services for CGI in the UK, said: “This year’s Mini-Fest was a powerful reminder of what makes Leeds unique – a collaborative, forward-thinking tech community focused on delivering real impact. CGI is proud to support and be part of that momentum.”