FPEmpresa took part in the presentation of the study “The Vocational Education and Training System and Innovation in Spain”, a research project promoted by Fundación CaixaBank Dualiza and Fundación Cotec for Innovation that analyses the role of VET as an innovation agent, its contribution to the productive and social fabric, and the challenges that remain in achieving greater recognition within Spain’s R&D&I system.
The event was held on 2 July 2026 at CaixaBank All in One Plaza de Colón in Madrid and brought together more than 100 representatives from companies, public administrations and educational institutions. Representing FPEmpresa was Sergio San Martín, Secretary of the Association and Director of Innovation at Centro de Formación Somorrostro, who took part in a round table focused on how Vocational Education and Training drives innovation through educational institutions, companies and local territories.
FPEmpresa’s participation in the event reinforces the Association’s commitment to raising the profile of VET as a key player in applied innovation. FPEmpresa also contributed to the development of the study, which was based on a survey of 258 Vocational Education and Training institutions across Spain, together with 29 in-depth interviews, four focus groups and an analysis of more than 50 scientific publications.
The report shows that Vocational Education and Training has been contributing to innovation in companies, particularly SMEs, for decades through knowledge transfer, the development of applied solutions and the incorporation of skilled talent. However, it also points out that this contribution continues to receive limited recognition within R&D&I policies and structures.
VET innovation driven by schools, companies and local communities
The event opened with contributions from Tomás Muniesa, Chairman of Fundación CaixaBank Dualiza and CaixaBank, and Cristina Garmendia, President of Fundación Cotec for Innovation, who highlighted the need to recognise the role of Vocational Education and Training within the innovation system.
During the event, Mónica Moso, Head of the Knowledge and Innovation Centre at Fundación CaixaBank Dualiza, and Ainara Zubillaga, Director of Education at Fundación Cotec, presented the study’s main conclusions. This was followed by a round table moderated by Miguel Massigoge Galbis, CEO of Possible Lab, featuring Sergio San Martín, representing FPEmpresa; Juan Campaño, from O Forno Garden; and María Elena Sanz Ibarra, Director General of People, Organisation and Culture at Atlantic Copper.
The study highlights that innovation in VET institutions often stems from the leadership of management teams, the commitment of teachers and the experience accumulated through previous projects. It also points out that innovation is more effective when it is no longer treated as an isolated activity and instead becomes integrated into the institution’s strategy through defined plans, long-term projects and specific coordination roles.
Another key aspect highlighted in the report is the direct connection between Vocational Education and Training and the productive sector. Dual VET, collaborative projects, work-based learning and cooperation programmes with companies allow the knowledge generated in educational institutions to be applied directly to production processes. In this context, VET students and graduates become a key channel for introducing up-to-date technical knowledge, identifying inefficiencies and proposing organisational and technological improvements.
The report also sets out a roadmap to strengthen the role of Vocational Education and Training within the innovation system. Its main proposals include formally recognising VET as an actor within the R&D&I system, developing strategic innovation plans, ensuring stable funding, evaluating results and increasing the participation of VET institutions in decision-making and governance structures.
The event concluded with contributions from Esther Monterrubio, Secretary General for Vocational Education and Training at the Ministry of Education, Vocational Training and Sports, and Juan Cruz Cigudosa, Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Universities, who highlighted the strategic role of VET within the R&D&I system.
