A former Principal Researcher at Tata Steel is forging a new career in Artificial Intelligence after securing support from the UK Government’s Employment and Skills Fund.
Ryan Davies, who spent almost a decade analysing ore data in the company’s laboratories, was made redundant as part of the recent restructuring at the steelmaker. Now, with funding covering tuition, essential equipment and study materials, he has begun an MSc in AI at the University of South Wales. His studies are already off to a strong start, earning distinctions in his first two assignments.
The scheme – set up to help those in Wales affected by changes at Tata Steel UK – has recently widened its eligibility. As well as redundant workers, it now supports people who have moved into lower‑paid or insecure jobs, those needing extra training to progress in their role, and individuals developing a business but not yet working full‑time.
Ryan said the backing had given him “hope to transform a challenging situation into a career‑changing opportunity”. He praised the NPT Employability team for their guidance and encouraged others to see what help is available.
Cllr Jeremy Hurley, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Economic Growth, said the refreshed criteria meant “even more people can retrain and find new pathways into employment” following the changes at Tata.
The funding forms part of a wider package of support for individuals and businesses affected by the steel industry transition.
