Project ROUTE: Building the Next Generation of Transport Data Talent

Digdata and ITS UK launch a national initiative to inspire 10,000 young people into digital and data careers in transport

We’re proud to be partnering with Intelligent Transport Systems UK (ITS UK) to launch Project ROUTE – a national initiative designed to connect thousands of students with the exciting world of transport data and digital careers.

Transport is one of the most data-rich and technologically advanced sectors in the UK. From connected vehicles and artificial intelligence to smart infrastructure and real-time analytics, data is transforming how people and goods move across the country. Yet despite this rapid innovation, many organisations continue to face significant digital skills shortages. Project ROUTE has been created to help address this challenge by inspiring young people, building practical skills and creating clear pathways into the industry.

A Shared Vision for the Future

Project ROUTE brings together Digdata’s expertise in engaging young people with data careers and ITS UK’s leadership within the transport technology sector. Together, we are creating a programme that will reach 10,000 students across the UK, provide 5,000 work experience opportunities and support the creation of 100 high-quality industry placements.

This initiative is about much more than career awareness. It is about helping young people understand how their skills in maths, technology, problem-solving and creativity can be applied to solve real-world transport challenges that impact millions of people every day.

Bringing Data Careers to Life

Project ROUTE has been designed to make transport careers visible, accessible and engaging for students from a wide range of backgrounds.

Through a combination of online Career Challenges, Onsite Data Days, curriculum-aligned classroom resources and virtual Data Future events, students will gain hands-on experience with real transport data problems while learning directly from industry professionals. These activities are designed to build confidence, develop data literacy and showcase the breadth of opportunities available across the sector.

By combining practical experiences with meaningful industry engagement, we aim to help students move beyond simply learning about careers and begin actively preparing for them.

Building on Proven Success

Project ROUTE builds on the success of previous Digdata programmes delivered alongside leading organisations across the UK. Most notably, the National Highways Digital Labs programme demonstrated the impact that authentic, industry-led learning experiences can have on young people’s aspirations and career awareness. That programme engaged thousands of students across hundreds of educational institutions and provided a strong foundation for scaling this model nationally. With Project ROUTE, we are expanding that approach across the entire transport sector, creating opportunities that span roads, rail, public transport, mobility technology, logistics and future transport systems.

Why This Matters

The transport industry is undergoing a profound digital transformation. Emerging technologies, increasing connectivity and growing reliance on data are reshaping the sector at every level. To unlock the full potential of these innovations, the industry needs a diverse pipeline of talented people who can bring fresh ideas, digital skills and new perspectives.

We see first hand how many young people are unaware of the opportunities available within data-driven industries. Project ROUTE is designed to change that. By introducing students to relatable role models, practical challenges and real career pathways, we can help them see transport as a sector where they can make a meaningful impact.

Working Together to Create Opportunity

The success of Project ROUTE depends on collaboration. We are delighted to be working alongside ITS UK, industry leaders, education providers and government stakeholders who share our commitment to developing future talent. The programme launches with support from industry partners including Arup and Amey and has received endorsement from the Department for Transport.

Together, we are creating opportunities that will benefit students, employers and the wider transport sector for years to come.

Project ROUTE officially launches in September 2026 and represents a significant step forward in building a stronger, more inclusive and future-ready workforce for transport.

This initiative aligns perfectly with our mission: helping young people discover exciting data careers, develop future-ready skills and connect with industries that are shaping the world around them. We are excited to begin this journey and look forward to welcoming thousands of students, educators and industry partners to Project ROUTE over the coming year.