A major new national skills initiative designed to inspire the next generation into data and digital careers in the transport sector has launched.
Project ROUTE is a new collaboration between Intelligent Transport Systems UK (ITS UK), the industry association for transport technology, and DigData, an organisation dedicated to guiding young people towards rewarding careers in data.
The initiative aims to reach 10,000 students across the UK, provide 5,000 online and in-person work experience opportunities, and create 100 high-quality industry placements.
In doing so, Project ROUTE seeks to help tackle the growing digital skills gap – a challenge estimated to cost the UK economy £63 billion each year.
As transport undergoes rapid digital transformation, driven by advances in AI, automation, connectivity and real-time data, the sector faces increasing demand for data-literate professionals, it said. Project ROUTE has been designed to strengthen the talent pipeline by raising awareness of digital careers early and creating clear, accessible routes into the industry.
The programme will deliver a mix of online career challenges, onsite “data days”, classroom-ready teaching resources and sector-led events. Activities will be tailored to engage students from primary school through to post-secondary education.
The first year of the programme will be led by Arup, with support from Amey. The initiative has also been endorsed by the Department for Transport and is now seeking additional industry partners ahead of full programme going live in September 2026.
The initiative builds on the success of National Highways’ Digital Labs programme, supported by Arup, Amey and Kainos, which engaged 3,000 students across more than 700 schools, colleges and universities.
Lilian Greenwood MP, Minister for Local Transport, said:
“This is a brilliant initiative that will open the door for more young people to explore rewarding, meaningful careers in transport technology.
“Strong digital skills are vital for navigating the challenges and opportunities in the transport sector. It’s encouraging to see industry stepping up with a programme that supports more young people into work, strengthens the sector, and boosts the economy.”
Max Sugarman, Chief Executive at ITS UK, said:
“We know that a shortage in digital and data skills is one of the most pressing concerns for our members and the wider transport technology industry.
“AI, automation and new technology are set to radically change the way we travel – but if we don’t have the skilled workforce ready to support these innovations, we simply won’t succeed. We’re extremely excited to be working with DigData and our industry and government partners to deliver Project ROUTE – and to start getting the message to students about the fantastic careers available in digital transport.”
Rachel Keane, Chief Data Inspirer, DigData, said:
“We are incredibly excited to be working alongside the transport sector on Project ROUTE, with the aim of broadening visibility of the exciting, rewarding and truly impactful careers available right across the UK.
“Transport touches every single person’s life, yet many young people are unaware of the breadth of digital and data-driven opportunities within it. This initiative will help give the sector an energised, forward-thinking and innovative new generation of talent, ready to shape the future.”
Ryan Hood, Digital Highways Leader at Arup and Chair of Project ROUTE, said:
“Project ROUTE directly supports the ambitions set out in the Transport Data Strategy, the Transport AI Action Plan and wider Government plans, helping to build the long-term capability our sector urgently requires.
“By reaching 10,000 students and delivering thousands of meaningful work experience opportunities, we’re opening doors to careers that are purposeful, innovative and accessible to young people from all backgrounds.”
Joe Collis, Head of Profession – Advisory, Amey and Vice Chair, Project ROUTE, said
“Project ROUTE represents exactly the kind of collaborative, future‑focused initiative our sector needs. We’re delighted to support ITS UK and work alongside DfT, Arup and partners across the transport sector to help strengthen digital and data capabilities nationwide.”
Image courtesy of ITS
