This week there have been themes of innovation, collaboration, and community spirit in my work and thinking. It began with the launch of the first in a series of practical activities aimed at supporting councils and the sector as a whole to “harness the potential of Artificial Intelligence.” Through LCRIG surveys, event feedback, and the Think Pavilion session at last year’s Innovation and Learning Festival, we identified a clear need for practical support and actionable advice to implement AI effectively.
To address this, we established an “Expert” task group dedicated to supporting LCRIG’s AI initiatives. After spreading the word through LCRIG communications and membership news, we quickly formed a core team from our members that answered the call to help support councils, and we have plans to expand further involvement from members as we gather insights. We have also reached out to partner organisations to foster broader collaboration and build on wider resources. With our well-attended regional groups, and two new thematic groups: one focused on AI and another on Apprenticeships, led by our very own Keely we hope these groups will strengthen sector support more than ever.
As part of a two-year programme of activities, we kicked off our AI support with an ‘Introduction to AI’ webinar. This event allowed us to debunk AI myths, explore opportunities, discuss challenges, and hear about Government Policy. It also provided a platform for organisations within the group to share their expertise and enthusiasm for supporting councils. Galliford Try, XAIS-PTS, Gaist, Vaisala, DfT, and National Highways (who couldn’t join this time but remain involved) contributed to a lively discussion. With nearly 100 attendees, the event covered a wide range of topics, offering practical insights that will be featured in next week’s LCRIG Insight, courtesy of Karla from our Sector Insights Team.
On a personal note, I’ve been preparing for my role as a rapporteur at next week’s ITS European Congress. It’s an honour to join an international team appointed by ERTICO under the leadership of Eric Sampson, CBE. During the Congress, we will attend special interest and technical sessions, reporting back for the final conference summary. Over the past weeks, I’ve been studying technical papers on major themes, specifically ‘Societal aspects of mobility for people and goods’ and ‘Resilient and safe mobility for today and the future.’ Next week, I’ll not only be fulfilling rapporteur duties but also attending the Smart Mobility Summit of Cities and Regions, representing the UK public sector’s perspective. This will be my second year participating in the ITS Congress Summit, an invite-only event where global mobility issues are discussed. Last year’s Summit on the Future of Mobility underscored the critical role of international politics in shaping our sector.
LCRIG will also have an important presence at the European Congress, providing the UK Pavilion for the Department for Transport (DfT) and the Transport Technology Forum. This isn’t just a showcase for British businesses; it’s a central hub for UK Government initiatives, with the LCRIG team supporting British innovators and businesses in showcasing their products and services to a European and global audience.
This week, I’ve been finalising workshop sessions for this year’s Innovation Think Pavilion at the upcoming Innovation and Learning Festival, a role I genuinely enjoy. The Think Pavilion was introduced last year and was a major success, with some sessions so popular it was standing-room-only. Insights from those sessions have directly influenced the AI initiatives we are now rolling out. This year, we are expanding to include sessions for apprentices, with support from the Apprentice Task Group. I look forward to sharing more information about these sessions in the coming weeks.
Finally, I want to acknowledge that this week is Mental Health Awareness Week, themed around ‘Community.’ The Mental Health Foundation is highlighting the importance of supportive communities for well-being. In our sector, that sense of community is tangible – it’s competitive, yes, but also incredibly supportive, as demonstrated by the many mental health programs led by our members.
Next week, I’ll share updates on innovations and key takeaways from the Congress in Seville. If you’re there, come and say hello, and don’t forget to support the SMEs and organisations represented at the UK Pavilion with DfT.
Paula Claytonsmith, CEO