Unlocking Tech Careers: Insights from the 'Get Into Tech' Event in Newry

Inspiring the Next Generation of Tech Professionals

Newry, Mourne and Down Labour Market Partnership recently hosted the ‘Get Into Tech’ event in collaboration with Bring IT On to showcase various pathways for starting a career in Technology.

Local school and Further Education college pupils had the opportunity to engage with a high-calibre panel of industry professionals, including Alan McEneaney from PayPal, Tina Calder of Excalibur Press, and Eammon Brankin of Digital IT. The session provided an insightful deep dive into pursuing technology as a viable and rewarding career path.

Diverse Roles in Tech

Speakers highlighted the diverse range of roles available in the tech sector, covering areas such as software development, cyber security, and artificial intelligence. They emphasized the various pathways into the industry, from academic routes to hands-on experience. A key takeaway was the importance of developing in-demand skills, many of which can be cultivated from an early age through interests and hobbies like gaming, coding, and digital creativity.

Engagement with Local Employers

Local employers were also present, actively engaging with participants about current and future career opportunities in technology. Notable attendees included representatives from PayPal, Collins Aerospace, First Derivatives, and Re-Gen Waste. Additionally, local colleges SERC and SRC, along with the Careers Service, offered guidance on educational and career pathways in the sector.

Support from Local Authorities

Councillor Pete Byrne, Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, and Councillor Alan Lewis, Chair of the Council’s Enterprise, Regeneration and Tourism Committee, addressed the event, stating, “Recognising that technology is the future and the future is now, Newry, Mourne and Down Labour Market Partnership has provided this fantastic opportunity to help our residents to find out more about the endless possibilities in Technology.” Attendees were presented with a clear pathway toward starting or developing a fulfilling career in technology, even without prior experience or qualifications.

Addressing Skills Shortages

The Bring IT On programme aims to tackle the skills shortage and employability issues within the IT sector in Northern Ireland. Diana Atchison, a representative of Bring IT On, emphasized the significance of the event: “Our mission is to ensure that IT businesses have a pipeline of skilled talent fit for industry needs. Events like this are a great way to harness that talent.”

Funded Initiatives

Funded by the Department for Communities, Labour Market Partnerships create targeted employment action plans for council areas, fostering collaboration at local and regional levels to support individuals in finding work.