Workshop on the ASSETs+ Strategy for Developing Skills and Competences for the Defence Sector

Hybrid event, at University of Pisa (Italy) and on MS Teams. June 26th, 2023. 16:30-18:30 CET.

The main goal of this event is to present the latest version of the ASSETs+ Strategy, which addresses emerging technologies and skills needs in the Defence sector. Our aim is to validate the actions developed based on previous analysis and inputs from partners and external experts, to incorporate additional suggestions to enhance and finalise the Strategy. This Strategy is intended to influence the European Commission’s future actions regarding sectoral re-skilling and up-skilling.

AGENDA

Introductory session: presentation of the methodology used to develop the Strategy and the results achieved thus far, chaired by Irene Spada, University of Pisa.

5 Parallel sessions: the scenario-based discussion tables, chaired by ASSETs+ Partners and external experts. Each session will focus on a pillar of the Strategy, which are represented in the 5-point security seat belt:

• Technologies
• Human Resources
• Qualifications and Best Practise
• Policies
• Projects and Funds

Closing session: Summary of the discussion by the chairs of each parallel sessions and closing remarks.

This workshop is designed to validate and integrate the actions for the Strategy for Developing Skills and Competences for the Defence Sector.

The emerging and disruptive trends related to the technological domains of Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Autonomous Vehicle, C4ISTAR and Cybersecurity are calling for the reskilling and upskilling of professionals. This implies, on one hand, the design and development of training programmes aligned with current and future technological industrial needs, as well as the needs of the Defence industry. On the other hand, it requires the establishment of a qualification system based on best practices within the European Defence industry. Moreover, these technologies allow leveraging on synergies between Defence and Civil sectors, enhancing Europe’s technological edge and support its industrial base.

Therefore, the scope of the workshop is to discuss the proposed actions, with the intention of understanding whether the activities we are foreseen in the Strategy are appropriate for addressing the proposed issue. We will focus on three main points:

1. Is the formulation of the actions complete or is there something missing?
2. How can we operationalise the actions? How can we make ensure the strategy’s effectiveness?
3. Who would be the suitable entity or combination of institutions to implement these actions?

The expected result is a validated list of actions, along with comments on their efficacy and effectiveness.