Durham University Business School is proud to partner with Connect Northumberland and the Royal Academy of Engineering in driving digital change, accelerating capability and inspiring confidence through the Connect Tech Programme. Whether you’re exploring AI, understanding how to manage cyber risk, or unlocking new efficiencies through connected technologies, Connect Tech brings together expert teaching and real-world case studies.
Participants become part of Durham University Executive Education network.
This is a fully-funded 5-day programme designed to support Northumberland employers and their teams to better understand and apply digital technologies in a practical, business-focused way.
The programme is open to senior leaders who possess a strategic overview of their organisations and the influence to drive potential digital change across teams and business units in Northumberland.
 |
Day 1: 18 June 2026 Digital Inspiration (AM) – What’s possible for Northumberland Step into the future of work and innovation, hearing from a panel of inspiring local business leaders already driving digital change in their organisations. Internet of Tings and Big Data (PM) How machines, systems and processes can “talk” to each other to give powerful insights and drive efficiency. |
 |
Day 2: 16 July 2026 Artificial Intelligence – Understand it, use it, lead with it This session will demystify AI and give you real, practical tools to use back in your business and enable you to make informed decisions about the future of AI in your organisation. |
 |
Day 3: 17 September 2026 Cyber Security – Protect what matters most Exploring the critical topic of cyber security. Providing an overview of the current cyber threat landscape, common cyber threats and best practices to mitigate these risks. |
 |
Day 4: 15 October 2026 AI – Application & Leadership With a strong focus on leadership and organisational implementation, you will explore how to effectively embed AI across your business to deliver lasting impact and examining strategies for successful adoption. |
 |
Day 5: 12 November 2026 Digital Transformation – Turning insight into action This concluding session focuses on what digital transformation looks like for your business. With real tools, expert facilitation and peer reflection, you will leave equipped to start or strengthen your digital journey. |
"Partnering with Durham University Business School on Connect Tech has been one of the easiest, most genuinely collaborative relationships we have. From day one, they listened, properly listened, to what we needed and what the employers we represent across Northumberland wanted from a digital leadership programme. They took our ideas and shaped them into something with real academic rigour, but never lost sight of the practical, real-world impact our businesses needed. They are proactive, responsive, and consistently on the ball which takes so much pressure off our team. Most importantly, they care about impact as much as we do, and that shared commitment is exactly why Connect Tech works."
Zoe Maylam, Executive Director, Connect Northumberland
