The National Network of Institutes of Technology is pleased to introduce its Executive team for 2025/2026.  

Rosa Wells continues as Chair and Georgina Barnard joins Claire Arbery and Sharon Grant as Vice-Chairs of the Network.

The Executive represents the Network externally, supports the Network to achieve its aims and identifies opportunities for collaboration. 

The 2025/26 Executive 

Rosa Wells , chair (Greater Birmingham and Solihull IoT)

Rosa led Greater Birmingham and Solihull IoT (GBSIoT) for nearly five years. She is now the FE Principal and Dean for STEM at University College Birmingham, a GBSIoT partner, and sits on GBSIoT’s Board of Directors. Rosa is a highly experienced engineer who has dedicated her career to education and training and is passionate about enabling students to succeed in STEM.

“Our strength is in the breadth and depth of our network. We need to support each other to showcase the innovative work that we are all doing.”

georgina barnard, vice-chair (stoke-on-trent and Staffordshire IoT)

Georgina has led Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire IoT since 2023, having previously overseen the launch of Black Country and Marches IoT. Georgina worked in industry, primarily the engingeering and manufacturing sector, for many years, then spent six years as a self-employed Business Consultant before moving into education. She is passionate about ensuring local communities have access to life-enhancing opportunities through high quality technical education. 

“I believe the year ahead presents a real opportunity for the IoT Network to consolidate its voice, amplify its national profile and influence the skills agenda at scale. By working collectively across regions, sectors and specialisms we can shape future policy and create solutions that respond to national priorities.”

Claire Arbery, Vice-Chair (West of England IoT)

Claire led the West of England Institute of Technology (WEIoT) from 2019-2025. She is now Head of Workforce Transformation Programmes at the National Composites Centre, one of WEIoT’s anchor employer partners. She has also managed significant apprenticeship provision, STEM engagement activities, and adult skills and commercial training.

“As we move to a full complement of IoTs being open and operational, it is time for the network to come together to provide a unified voice on what IoTs do to improve skills and productivity across England.”

Sharon Grant, Vice-Chair (North East IoT)

Sharon has a background as a research chemist as well as in STEM education and consulting. She has been Director of North East IoT since 2021. Sharon is passionate about building a work-ready talent pipeline in the North East, and driving the transition to green energy and net zero.

“It is a simple vision: we are stronger together. By connecting the dots, stopping working in silos, and avoiding duplication of efforts, we can work smarter. As a network of colleges, universities and employers, IoTs are best placed to do this.”

 

Institutes of Technology (IoTs) are a national network stretching from Truro to Tyneside, collectively comprising over 80 further education colleges, over 30 universities, and over 100 employer partners. Our mission is to equip individuals with the advanced technical skills that drive innovation and meet employers’ evolving needs.

If you’d like to contact any of the members of the Executive, get in touch here.