University of Hertfordshire and Jacobs forge strategic alliance to drive research, innovation and talent development

The University of Hertfordshire has joined forces with Jacobs, a global leader in infrastructure and programme delivery solutions, to drive career development and industry engagement aimed at preparing a future-ready workforce in the engineering and construction sector.

The collaboration will harness the combined strengths of Jacobs and Herts through research and development, knowledge exchange and talent pipeline initiatives.

By engaging in innovative projects, sharing best practices, and expanding experiential learning opportunities for students and early-career professionals, the collaboration aims to advance industry knowledge, support mutual growth, generate shared value and strengthen workforce development efforts.

Key highlights of the alliance include:

• Building talent pipeline: The joint initiative will develop a strong talent stream by offering Herts students and early-career professionals hands-on experience through internships, co-op programmes, and collaborative projects with industry experts. The goal is to equip the next generation with practical skills to meet industry demands, while strengthening Jacobs’ apprenticeship and graduate recruitment efforts.
• Knowledge sharing: The strategic relationship will promote continuous learning and mutual knowledge exchange between Jacobs and Herts through jointly organised activities such as workshops, seminars and training sessions. Structured exchanges, such as visiting lectureships, professorships and fellowships, will also enable Jacobs professionals to contribute to academic settings and allow Herts faculty to engage with industry practices.
• Research and development: The alliance will focus on collaborative research that combines the strengths of both Jacobs and Herts to develop innovative technologies and solutions. By sharing resources and expertise, the aim is to address industry challenges, advance academic knowledge, and generate shared revenue through the commercialisation of research outcomes.

Professor Quintin McKellar, Vice-Chancellor at the University of Hertfordshire, said:

“We’re proud to be working with industry leader Jacobs, whose expertise and influence in infrastructure and programme delivery are deeply respected. This strategic alliance reflects our shared commitment to nurturing talent, advancing skills development, and driving innovation through apprenticeships and research.

“At the University of Hertfordshire, we recognise the vital role engineering and construction play in shaping the future. This collaboration will be instrumental in developing a highly skilled workforce and empowering the next generation of industry leaders.”

Alex Lane, Senior Vice President at Jacobs, said:

“As a major employer in Hertfordshire, we place great value in developing local talent and engaging across STEAM disciplines through our global network of projects and clients to create the workforce of the future.

“The research facilities and academic calibre that the University of Hertfordshire offers is world leading, and Jacobs looks forward to bringing our industry expertise to this relationship as we work together to solve the world’s most complex challenges.”

The University has recently launched its Clearing webpages, offering prospective students the chance to explore a wide range of engineering courses.