RNN GroupLearn with Us: For EducationDefence Technical Excellence College (DTEC)

Defence Technical Excellence College (DTEC)

The Defence Technical Excellence College (DTEC) partnership is a major initiative designed to strengthen the UK’s technical skills base and support the future needs of the defence and advanced technology sectors.

About the Defence Technical Excellence College

DTEC responds to rapid technological change, evolving global challenges and the growing demand for highly skilled professionals across engineering, manufacturing, digital systems, cyber security, automation, robotics and emerging technologies.

RNN Group’s Role in DTEC

RNN Group is one of five educational institutions awarded DTEC status and is playing a central role as the lead education partner for its region. RNN Group brings extensive experience in technical education, employer engagement and skills development, with established provision across engineering, manufacturing, digital technologies and other technical disciplines. Its employer-led approach, specialist facilities and experience delivering apprenticeships, adult training and higher-level technical education provide a strong foundation for delivering the DTEC vision.

DTEC Working Groups
DTEC News

A World-Class Technical Learning Environment

DTECs will create a world-class technical learning environment in which education providers, employers, government and innovation partners collaborate to identify skills requirements and develop the workforce needed for future defence capability. The model will provide clear progression routes from school-leaver programmes and apprenticeships through to higher-level study, professional development and workforce upskilling. Learning will combine academic knowledge with practical, hands-on experience, supported by specialist equipment, industry expertise and project-based activities.

An engineering student using machinery in the workshop
Two students listening to their engineering tutor

Working with Industry and Defence

Industry and defence collaboration is fundamental to the initiative. Employers will be able to influence curriculum design, contribute specialist expertise, support learner development and provide work placements, apprenticeships, live projects and professional development opportunities. In return, organisations will gain access to a stronger talent pipeline, specialist facilities and training designed around real operational requirements. DTEC therefore aims to operate not simply as a training provider, but as a strategic skills partner supporting innovation, productivity and national capability.

Benefits for Learners, Employers and Communities

The benefits extend across all stakeholders. Learners will gain relevant technical skills, professional behaviours and clearer routes into high-value careers. Employers will benefit from skilled talent and opportunities to address workforce gaps. Government and regional partners will gain support for national capability, economic growth and a resilient skills ecosystem, while communities will benefit from greater access to high-value employment and opportunities for future generations.

Innovation, Technology and Applied Learning

Innovation and technology are also central to the DTEC approach. Through applied learning, employer-led projects and collaboration with research partners, learners and organisations will engage with areas such as digital engineering, automation, advanced manufacturing, cyber security and data-driven technologies. This is intended to create a culture in which innovation is experienced, tested and applied rather than simply taught.

Students in the digital suite at Rotherham College
In the digital suite at Rotherham College

Economic and Regional Impact

Economically, DTECs aim to address critical skills shortages, strengthen regional supply chains, improve productivity and support investment and innovation. Their long-term roadmap focuses on three priorities: developing a future-ready technical workforce, creating a connected defence skills ecosystem, and delivering measurable economic and social impact.

Relevant Courses at RNN Group

Relevant courses offered throughout the RNN Group include:

Engineering:
https://ucr.rotherham.ac.uk/department/engineering/

Computing and Digital:
https://ucr.rotherham.ac.uk/department/computing-and-digital/

A Long-Term Partnership

Ultimately, RNN Group’s DTEC is presented as a long-term partnership rather than simply a college initiative. Employers, education providers, government, innovation partners and communities are invited to contribute through curriculum development, apprenticeships, placements, mentoring, research and knowledge exchange. The overarching ambition is to create a sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals, strengthen UK defence capability and inspire the next generation of engineers, technicians and technology specialists.

For more information please contact: dtec@rnngroup.ac.uk.

RNN Group DTEC Working Groups

RNN Group’s DTEC is bringing together employers, education and skills providers, and local government partners to help shape the future of the UK Defence Supply Chain.

Following the DTEC launch event, we are establishing three dedicated Sectoral Working Groups to help translate the programme’s ambitions into action and inform its three-year strategic priorities.

The three workstreams are:

  • Advanced Manufacturing
    9th December 2026, 2pm-3:30pm at The Wharncliffe.
  • Robotics and Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)
    16th December 2026, 2pm-3:30pm at Dearne Valley College.
  • Digital
    13th January 2027, 2pm-3:30pm at The Wharncliffe.

RNN Group Working Groups Invitation pdf

These groups will provide an opportunity for industry and education partners to collaborate on identifying current and emerging skills needs, addressing workforce and training challenges, and shaping future curriculum, facilities and skills development pathways.

We are inviting organisations from across the defence supply chain and wider skills ecosystem to get involved and help ensure our regional and national workforce is equipped to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving sector.

Interested in contributing?

We welcome participation from employers, industry representatives, education providers and strategic partners. To find out more and register your interest, please contact us via dtec@rnngroup.ac.uk.

Together, we can help build a resilient, skilled and future-ready defence workforce.

DTEC News