Tech Talent X is an extended work experience programme from Sunderland Software City focusing on enhancing digital skills and industry awareness for both Sunderland employers and participants:
Addressing Skills Gap: Many businesses are experiencing a shortage of workers with digital skills. By providing an extended work experience program, SSC can help bridge this gap by training participants in relevant digital skills such as coding, data analysis, digital marketing, and graphic design. This directly benefits employers as they gain access to a pool of talent equipped with the skills needed to thrive in today’s digital economy.
Industry-Relevant Training: The program will be tailored to the specific needs of tech employers, ensuring that participants are trained in skills that are in high demand locally. This means that employers will have access to individuals who not only possess digital skills but also have a good understanding of the local business landscape and industry requirements.
Building a Talent Pipeline: Extended work experience programs allow employers to identify and nurture talent early on. By providing participants with real-world work experience, employers can assess their skills, work ethic, and cultural fit over an extended period. This helps in identifying potential future hires, thereby reducing recruitment costs and improving employee retention rates.
Increasing Industry Awareness: Through exposure to different companies and projects, participants gain a better understanding of various industries, job roles, and career pathways available. This not only helps them make informed career decisions but also exposes employers to a diverse pool of candidates with different backgrounds and perspectives.
Promoting Collaboration and Innovation: Bringing together participants from different backgrounds fosters collaboration and the exchange of ideas. This can lead to innovative solutions to industry challenges and help employers stay competitive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Enhancing Employability: Beyond technical skills, the program can also focus on developing soft skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability. These are essential for success in any job and can significantly enhance participants’ employability, making them more valuable assets to employers.
Overall, an extended work experience program geared towards improving digital skills, employment skills and industry awareness can serve as a win-win for both participants and employers, helping to address skills gaps, build a strong talent pipeline, and foster innovation and growth in the local economy.
