Over the course of the two-day at the Deep Tech Skills Days 2024 in Warsaw, a series of key note speeches and panel discussions addressed the key challenges facing the deep tech ecosystem and how best to prepare the next generation of talent. The focus was clear: for Europe to maintain its global leadership in deep tech innovation, concerted action is needed to bridge critical gaps in talent, policy, and investment.
At the heart of the discussions was the need for a more holistic approach to deep tech education. Often viewed as a collection of high-impact technologies derived from scientific breakthroughs, deep tech must be paired with entrepreneurship and practical application. As Pamela Krzypkowska, Director of Research and Innovation at Poland’s Ministry of Digital Affairs, pointed out, deep tech’s transformative potential cannot be fully realised unless it is integrated into real-world business and societal needs. She stressed that innovation should not be siloed but must involve active collaboration between researchers, businesses, and governments to achieve sustainable, impactful outcomes.
“Deep tech is a way of solving current problems that exist in Europe and the world. Deep tech can help us achieve a better future for future generations. It is important to remember that deep tech does not exist in a vacuum.” (Pamela Krzypkowska, Director of Department of Research and Innovation, Ministry of Digital Affairs, Poland)
Europe’s ability to capitalise on the deep tech revolution also depends on fostering the right infrastructure. This includes creating an ecosystem where scientific discoveries can quickly evolve into marketable solutions. Milena Stoycheva, Chairperson of the Board of Innovation at Bulgaria’s Ministry of Innovation and Growth, warned that Europe cannot afford to wait. Instead, Europe must prioritise investment in bold, future-oriented solutions, particularly in sectors like AI, quantum computing, and sustainable technologies. Universities, vocational training programmes, and innovation hubs must all play an active role in preparing individuals for the challenges ahead. Stoycheva also emphasised the importance of integrating eco-centric values into curricula and highlighting the practical application of technological advancements, rather than just theoretical knowledge.
One of the most significant takeaways from the event was the need for a transformative shift in Europe’s educational system. As Ville Valtonen, CEO of MinnaLearn, pointed out, the traditional education model is no longer sufficient in a world increasingly dominated by technology. It’s no longer enough for students to simply “study”; they must be prepared to collaborate, think critically, and adapt quickly to fast-evolving technological landscapes. This approach requires a shift toward continuous learning, viewing education not as a one-time event, but as an ongoing process. Cultivating a culture of lifelong learning is essential for ensuring that individuals stay competitive in an ever-changing digital world.
Another key focus of the event was the importance of inclusivity in Europe’s deep tech talent ecosystem. The deep tech sector must not only attract top talent but also ensure that individuals from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds have access to opportunities. This inclusivity isn’t just about fairness, it’s about tapping into a wider range of perspectives and fostering greater creativity and innovation. The speakers stressed that mentorship programmes, salary equity, and policies encouraging both women and men to pursue careers in deep tech are crucial steps in building a more equitable talent pipeline.
Finally, as Europe continues to advance in deep tech fields, ethical considerations surrounding AI and other emerging technologies must remain at the forefront. With AI increasingly influencing everything from the job market to political discourse, it is essential that these tools are used responsibly. Dr. Małgorzata Bonikowska, President of THINKTANK, highlighted the growing threat posed by disinformation, which undermines democracy and social cohesion. She called for greater collaboration between the public and private sectors to address these challenges, ensuring that deep tech serves the public good rather than exacerbating societal divides. The ethical implications of AI and other advanced technologies will continue to evolve, and it is vital that deep tech education embeds ethical frameworks to prepare the next generation of innovators to navigate these complexities.
The Deep Tech Skills Days 2024 reinforced the importance of collaboration in building a sustainable and inclusive deep tech education ecosystem. Knowledge transfer, cross-sector partnerships, and an active, diverse talent pipeline are all necessary components for driving Europe’s deep tech future and benefiting society.
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