The evolution of emerging technologies has highlighted a significant gap between the demands of the European market and the supply of advanced digital skills. According to Eurostat, since 2021, over 60% of EU companies that hired or attempted to hire ICT specialists have faced difficulties filling vacant positions. In Italy, this percentage is approximately 60%. Moreover, only 55.6% of the European population possesses basic digital skills, with Italy at 45.8%, significantly below the EU average. The Digital Europe Programme aims to bridge this gap by promoting strategic projects to develop qualified talent, encourage careers in the digital sector, and attract top professionals.

MetaFold Academy fits into this context as a modular training initiative designed to accelerate the green transformation of the manufacturing industry. By integrating innovative teaching methodologies and advanced technologies, the program aims to bridge the gap between supply and demand for digital skills. An international network of training centers will provide practical support and accreditation to foster the adoption of sustainable technologies in metal forming. Through collaboration with leading partners, MetaFold Academy fosters synergy between industry and academia, ensuring high-level training for engineers and designers in the automotive, aerospace, energy and naval sectors.

The main objectives of the MetaFold Academy project have been defined to maximize the impact of the modular training program, promoting a green industrial transformation based on innovative technologies. These objectives include:

Promoting and disseminating the initiative: ensuring widespread communication of MetaFold Academy’s activities, strategies, and results across key sectors, including automotive, aerospace, energy, and maritime, while highlighting the value of sustainable and innovative technologies for metal forming.

Supporting the adoption of innovative technologies: facilitating the integration of advanced technologies, such as micro-learning, extended reality (XR), challenge-based learning, and innovation & business thinking methodologies, into the training context. These tools provide a practical and interactive learning experience, enhancing participants’ ability to address complex industrial challenges.

Creating an international training network: expanding and strengthening the network of training centers across Europe by engaging companies, academic institutions, and training providers. This ensures the scalability of the program and access to high-quality training in multiple countries.

Providing technical and entrepreneurial skills: training 250 engineers and designers to acquire the competencies needed to integrate sustainable metal folding technologies, such as curve folding, within their companies. These professionals will be equipped to apply high-value innovations to improve products and industrial processes.

Strengthening collaboration between industry and academia: encouraging dialogue and knowledge exchange between companies, research centers, and training providers to create synergies that foster sustainable growth and continuous innovation.

Aligning with european sustainability goals: contributing to the transition towards zero-impact production in line with the european green deal by supporting energy efficiency and resource optimization.