New AI academy offers personalised support

Shropshire Chamber of Commerce has launched a new AI Academy, giving businesses access to practical, role‑based artificial intelligence training.

Delivered through the British Chambers of Commerce and powered by PAIR, it is part of the Chamber’s commitment to helping businesses build confidence and capability in a rapidly changing digital landscape.

The package is now available to both Shropshire Chamber of Commerce members and non-members with discounted rates for members.

Ruth Ross, chief executive of Shropshire Chamber, said: “AI is no longer a future concept – it’s evolving fast, and reshaping how businesses operate. But for many organisations, the challenge is knowing where to start. This Academy gives people a clear, structured and genuinely accessible way to build the skills they need.”

The AI Academy is a self‑learning online programme that adapts to each participant’s role and sector. Before beginning their masterclasses, learners input their job title and company website, allowing the system to generate personalised focus areas.

Every module, example and exercise is tied directly to real workflows, helping users apply AI immediately in their day‑to‑day tasks.

Ruth said: “What sets this platform apart is its relevance. This isn’t generic theory – it’s practical, hands‑on learning that reflects the realities of someone’s job.

“Whether you’re writing content, analysing data, researching, problem‑solving or building prototypes, the Academy shows you how AI can save time, improve quality and support better decision‑making.”

Participants receive 12 months’ access to the PAIR platform, personalised masterclasses, practical exercises, self‑paced learning and a LinkedIn certificate.

The programme is already trusted by government departments and global enterprises to help teams embed AI effectively across their organisations.

Ruth said: “Businesses of every size across Shropshire are telling us the same thing: they want to embrace AI, but they need guidance they can trust. We’re giving local employers a powerful tool to build confidence, capability and competitive advantage.”

The impact of AI on professional services is the topic of Shropshire Chamber’s next Professionals Partnership event, being held at the Mercure Telford Centre Hotel on May 22. ​

Paul Bennett of law firm Bennett Briegal will look at how AI is influencing professional firms, the key opportunities and risks, and practical steps to prepare businesses for what's ahead. For more details, and to book a place, see shropshirechamber.com/events