Oakland launches academy to fast-track data & AI careers

Leeds-based data consultancy Oakland Everything Data has introduced Oakland Futures, a four-week academy aimed at accelerating careers in data, artificial intelligence, and digital consultancy. With its first cohort beginning on 20th January 2026.

The new programme combines practical client experience with skill-building workshops, concluding with the offer of a full-time position for those who complete it.

Programmeme details

Oakland Futures is structured as a hands-on training initiative. Over four weeks, participants will work directly on assignments for clients from sectors such as public utilities, telecommunications, and infrastructure. The academy includes training in project management, cloud engineering, and stakeholder engagement. Masterclasses in sales and marketing are also provided to give a broader business perspective.

Industry demand

The four-decade-old consultancy counts organisations such as Network Rail, Vodafone, Yorkshire Water, and Hitachi Energy among its clients.

Organisations across the UK are seeking skills in data analytics and artificial intelligence, and the academy is intended to address the sector's growing need for trained professionals.

Talent pipeline

The structured curriculum aims to offer participants immediate exposure to client needs and the fundamentals of consultancy. Trainees are supported by Oakland's team of professionals during the programme. Upon successful completion, all trainees receive offers for full-time positions at Oakland, creating a direct pathway from training to employment.

Training ethos

"Oakland Futures is something I've been working on in the background, and I'm incredibly passionate about. At Oakland, we talk about 'freedom to grow,' and Oakland Futures is just that. It's such a unique experience, it's not all about theory; you'll be hands-on, working with clients almost straight away, but in a brilliantly supportive environment, it really is an amazing opportunity," said Lauren Lewis, Futures Lead, Oakland Everything Data.

Participants will gain insight not just into technical skills, but how data-driven consultancy is applied within different industries. Oakland aims to blend technical training with practical client interaction to better equip individuals for careers in data and AI consulting.

Career development

The consultancy has positioned the academy as an entry-point for ambitious professionals targeting long-term roles within the data and digital sector. The programme focuses on practical work, reinforced by expert guidance and supplementary workshops. This approach reflects Oakland's stated commitment to professional growth and its internal philosophy of providing opportunities to develop.

Rian Hoey, Talent Lead at Oakland, said, "We've named it Oakland Futures, representing a key goal for this academy, building bright futures for the next generation of data lovers who join us on this journey."