To what extent do employability interventions within HE, empower students to succeed in a growing and digitally innovative manufacturing sector in Wal

The proposed research explores higher education students' employability skills in Wales and, in particular, examines them in relationship to digital skills gap and technological unemployment scenarios, resulting from employers' increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) software and digital technologies. Specifically, the research will address questions related to digital skills shortages and graduate employability skills in Wales's manufacturing sector, contributing to research in the fields of digital economy, work and employment and skills formation. It employs qualitative methods, focused on interviews with higher education students and employers within the manufacturing sector (at present targeting the food and beverage sector as an expanding sector of the economy in Wales). Appropriate procedures for conducting research in safe and ethical ways with young people (18-25) will be followed, as well as ensuring confidentiality on corporate sensitivities with regard to business strategy (employer interviews). Lone researcher and Covid-19 issues are recognised and accounted for.