A career in ICT is both challenging and fulfilling, and with countless career opportunities to pick from you need only be inspired to take that first step. So, whether you’re starting out by dipping your feet in the water to seek work experience or looking to pursue fulltime employment, technology is for everyone.
I could be a little bias in saying this since I am the Organisational Development Manager for Data#3, but our people really are the heartbeat of our business. Our core values of Honesty, Excellence, Agility, Respect and Teamwork: HEART reflect it. So, it should come as no surprise how important it is for us to not only make sure we have the right people helping our customers forge ahead with their technology journeys, but ensuring the ICT industry is sustainable while also inspiring the next generation.
The recently published ACS Deloitte Access Economics Digital Pulse report projected an estimated 60,000 extra IT workers are needed per annum over the next five years. That’s a lot when you consider the fact that there are only an estimated 7,000 students graduating with an IT degree each year.
It was over a year ago that Data#3 had the privilege of partnering with Matthew Jorgensen, Project Manager for the Gateway to Industry Schools Project (GISP), from the Australian Computer Society. The project encourages schools and a network of industry partners like Data#3 to work together to place students with host companies for work experience to help them see what a career in technology could be.
“There is a deficit of tech workers across Australia. One way to change this is direct promotion of the amazing careers available to workers. Spending time in the workplace is crucial for students to understand how to work as a team and the roles within the technology industry disciplines such as cybersecurity, networking, and software development. Being a part of the project promotes technology roles and careers to students so that they choose a digital technology focused study pathway in school to open the door to a career pathway in the industry,” explained Jorgensen.
Thanks to the ICT Gateway to Industry Schools Project, we’re lucky to have our very own graduate who is part of ensuring we continue to deliver the digital future.
What motivated you to apply for the ICT Gateway to Industry Schools Project?
Since as long as I can remember ICT has been an interest of mine, whether it was building computer systems with my grandad in primary school or developing software throughout high school. It was only as I got to the end of my senior year at St Joseph’s Nudgee College that I realised the skills that I had developed through my enthusiasm for computers and software could be used in a business environment. When I graduated, I knew that the ICT industry was right for me, and the ICT Gateway to Industry Schools Project was an awesome opportunity to kickstart my career.
What have you achieved as part of the project?
Aside from getting my foot in the door in the industry and meeting friendly, like-minded people, my main ambition was to find a role that would allow me to explore more thoroughly the various different sectors of ICT and determine where I would like to see myself in the future.
What has been the biggest takeaway throughout your time working with Data#3?
The most valuable takeaway has been corporate experience, more specifically seeing firsthand how the work environment within the industry functions on a day-to-day basis. The time I’ve spent at Data#3 so far has provided me with an insight into how versatile the industry actually is, the infinite opportunities within the industry, and the number of awesome people you meet along the way.
How has the project impacted where you see your career in the future?
Through the many people I’ve met, both within and outside of Data#3, I’ve been given a great understanding of what the different of areas of ICT are comprised of and has allowed me to make far more educated decisions regarding which courses and subjects were most suited to my interests and career goals. Up until now I’ve been studying a Bachelor of Engineering Honours (Computer and Software Systems), but with everything I’ve learned I have a clearer path in mind for where I see my career and will be changing my major to computer science.
What advice do you have for others looking to join the project and learn more about the ICT industry?
I’d highly recommend the project. Not only because of what it’s done for me, but also because of how it’s benefitted many of my colleagues as well. If I was to give any advice to anyone looking to join the project, it would be to just dive in headfirst, make the most of the opportunities presented to you, and most importantly, have fun!
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.
Whether you’re looking to take advantage of the great opportunity the Gateway to Industry Schools Project brings or simply looking for the next opportunity in your technology career, remember, it all starts with you.
Learn more about the ICT Gateway to Industry Schools Project