September 05, 2022

From undergraduate to ICT professional: Alex’s story

Tim Dowdle
Organisational Development Manager
The ICT industry has gone through many challenges over the past few years. The continual emergence of new technologies has forced many of us to re-evaluate how we operate daily, both in our personal and work lives. With the rapid transformation of ICT, companies like Data#3 need passionate and skilled individuals now more than ever to support our business moving into the future.

We are passionate about supporting the ongoing development of our people and investing in opportunities and programs that support the early phases of ICT careers. Whether that is straight out of school, graduating from university, making a career change, or re-entering the workforce after a mid-career break, we are committed to supporting everyone, irrespective of their life stage.

We offer a variety of pathways and opportunities through partnering with our vendors programs, apprenticeship centres, tertiary education providers and industry groups. These programs provide practical on-the-job experience in conjunction with various study arrangements.

By undertaking one of these programs, you will have the opportunity to learn, be engaged, and inspired to build your career at Data#3 and in the ICT industry.

Instead of taking our word for it though, let’s hear from recent graduate turned ICT professional at Data#3, Alex Airoldi, and how Data#3 helped support his pathway from tertiary study to full-time employment.

Alex Airoldi Headshot

“Data#3 has provided consistent support and encouragement towards my career development and studies. This has not only allowed me to progress both professionally as an employee and student, but as a determined and passionate individual who is enthusiastic to develop a better understanding within the workplace environment and ICT industry. I am confident that Data#3 will continue to aid my personal development in the ICT industry.”

What initially motivated you to apply for the Customer Service role with Data#3? Data#3 was offering a graduate position whilst I was undergoing my first year of university. I researched the company and their core values aligned with my own. I believed this was a great opportunity to get a foot in the door and showcase my willingness to learn and to better develop my skills within the workplace and ICT industry.

How would you describe your experience with Data#3 and managing your study? It has been exciting, challenging and rewarding balancing my studies and work. My mentors at Data#3 have provided me with various opportunities to develop my professional and personal skills, from training programs to volunteer work. This has brought out the best in me, particularly due to receiving consistent support and encouragement.

What has been the biggest takeaway throughout your time working while studying? Perseverance, enthusiasm and determination have aided my professional and personal success whilst working and studying. This has been made easier whilst working alongside my supportive mentors who have pushed me to better myself every day.

Has your role with Data#3 impacted where you see your future career? My role within Data#3 has definitely impacted my personal goals and future aspirations. Working as a customer service representative has demonstrated the importance of being able to communicate professionally with all stakeholders of the business, and this is something that I’d like to continue to develop moving forward.

What advice would you have for others looking to follow a similar pathway? If you are presented with an opportunity that will aid your professional and personal development, accept it, and push yourself to improve. Don’t ever be afraid to make mistakes or put yourself in positions of uncertainty. The harder the challenge, the more fulfilling the reward.

What’s next for Alex? Now, having graduated from university, I can better direct my focus into my current role. I aim to continue on this path whereby I am consistently making an effort to improve my skillset and provide more value to my clients and business.

What Next?

It’s been fantastic to bring young talent into our organisation and support the growth and development of graduates. For anyone looking to kick-start a career in ICT, the best advice I can give is to keep your eyes open for opportunities that may interest you. Remember it all starts with you, so don’t be afraid to take the plunge and put yourself out there. At Data#3 we embrace diversity, inspire our people, and grow with HEART.

We can’t wait for you to join us on our journey to delivering the digital future.