Almería FP: Collaboration Between Education & Business Boosted at ‘Impulsando Sinergias’ Event

Nearly 200 vocational training teachers gathered in Almería, Spain, on Thursday, March 26, 2026, for the ‘Impulsando Sinergias’ (Boosting Synergies) conference, focused on strengthening collaboration between educational institutions, businesses, and public-private organizations in student vocational training.

The event, held at the Palacio de Congresos Cabo de Gata – Ciudad de Almería, drew attendance from key regional figures including Diego Cruz, Almería’s Councilor for Culture and Education; Francisco Maldonado, a regional delegate; Esther Álvarez, a provincial deputy; and Inmaculada Troncoso, the Director General of Vocational Training and Lifelong Learning for the Andalusian regional government.

According to organizers, the conference aimed to address the increasing importance of practical experience in vocational training, with nearly 17,439 students in the province currently participating in company-based training programs this academic year. Discussions centered on how to optimize these placements and foster stronger ties between the educational system and the demands of the labor market.

Councilor Cruz emphasized the necessity of a strong partnership between vocational schools and businesses, stating, “The synergy between professional training and the company is not only desirable, it is essential. When both advance hand in hand, we achieve something far more valuable than the sum of their parts: we train professionals who are prepared, motivated, and capable of adding value from day one. And we also achieve more competitive, more innovative companies, and companies more committed to their environment.” He further noted the value of sharing experiences and identifying needs to establish new alliances and a shared vision for the future.

Francisco Alonso, the territorial delegate, highlighted the conference as an opportunity to review the 277 vocational training programs offered across institutes in Almería, as well as showcase innovative projects developed by teachers and students. He also underscored the significance of Director General Troncoso’s participation, citing her extensive professional experience as a valuable asset to the conference’s content.

Deputy Álvarez echoed the sentiment, stating that the conference’s theme – “boosting synergies” – perfectly encapsulates the spirit needed for future progress. She emphasized the importance of learning, innovation, and sharing best practices to ensure the future success of Almería and its residents.

The conference program included sessions focused on shared experiences in student placement, a forum highlighting women breaking barriers in vocational fields, a “meeting point” for sharing best practices, a discussion on generational turnover in strategic sectors, and a “laboratory of experiences” showcasing the role of businesses in talent development.

Inmaculada Troncoso was appointed Director General of Vocational Training and Lifelong Learning in 2024, bringing with her a long career in education management, including previous roles directing secondary schools offering vocational programs. She previously served as the Territorial Delegate for Education, Sports, Equality, Social Policies and Conciliation in Córdoba from 2019 to 2022.