Principal Awarded CBE for Services to Further Education

Walsall College Principal and Chief Executive, Jatinder Sharma DL has been awarded a CBE in the New Year Honours List for Services to Further Education.

“I am deeply humbled to be recognised in this way,” he said.  “This Honour pays tribute to the hard work and dedication of all the governors, teaching and business support staff throughout my time at the college.  It is also testament to our thousands of amazing learners of all ages and backgrounds who have achieved their qualifications and career ambitions with us.

“The college goes from strength to strength.  This year in particular saw us enjoy some of the best T Levels results in the country, achieving industry awards and accolades.  We also have opportunities to further invest in renewable and sustainable technologies through our electric/hybrid vehicle training facility and the facilities at our construction-based, Green Lane Campus and Construction College Midlands, Birmingham site.

“These spur me on to continue working with colleagues, peers and the college’s employer and sector partners, to continue serving the Black Country area and our wider communities while delivering the skills our economy needs.

“I look forward to seeing what we achieve in 2023.”

A qualified accountant and highly experienced leader, Jatinder joined Walsall College in 2004 having previously held a number of senior positions across the private and public sector.

He is a strong advocate for the vital role further education skills and training play in raising the aspirations of school leavers, adults and businesses in order to help communities prosper.  Jatinder also actively supports the ongoing regeneration of the Black Country area and the opportunities this will provide for wider investment and awareness.

He currently serves on the boards of the Black Country Chamber of Commerce, Black Country Local Enterprise Partnership and the Association of Colleges and is a member of the Walsall Proud Partnership.  He also represents further education on the Department for Education (DfE) Principals’ Reference Group and as Chair of the Association of Colleges Sport.

In Spring 2022, he was one of six leading local figures to be appointed Deputy Lieutenant for the West Midlands.