The Activate Learning Education Trust (ALET) & Partners Initiative: Developing Skilled Talent for the Digital Infrastructure Sector
In March, the Activate Learning Education Trust (ALET) & Partners initiative made a significant impact at the ExCel London event, where industry leaders came together to discuss the future of digital infrastructure. This initiative attracted strong interest and served as a focal point for professionals eager to learn about the partnership’s efforts in developing a pipeline of skilled, work-ready talent.
Empowering Students for the Digital Future
ALET brought 40 ambitious students from four of its UTCs to the event, all enrolled in the Digital Futures Programme. This program, developed in collaboration with leading digital infrastructure firms, equips students with the technical skills and industry knowledge necessary for successful careers in the fast-growing digital sector.
The ALET UTCs & Partners stand was inaugurated by Stephen Phipson, Chief Executive at Make UK and Chair of Baker Dearing Educational Trust. UTCs are specialized schools focusing on STEM subjects like engineering, science, and digital industries. Unlike traditional educational institutions, UTCs offer students valuable industry experience through placements, mentorships, and hands-on projects related to cutting-edge technological advancements.
Preparing Students for the Modern Workforce
Stephen Phipson emphasized the importance of accelerating digital skills and early employer engagement to meet the evolving demands of sectors like engineering, manufacturing, and AI. The Digital Futures Programme is designed to address these needs, with employers actively involved in guiding students towards digital career pathways.
Students participating in the programme are exposed to a curriculum tailored to the digital infrastructure sector’s growing requirements. The DFP, created in collaboration with industry leaders, aims to produce a generation of academically proficient students with advanced digital skills, priming them for success in the workforce.
Connecting Students with Industry Experts
At Data Centre World, students engaged with industry mentors to explore career opportunities within the digital infrastructure sector. The event provided a platform for students to interact with professionals, attend technical seminars, and gain insights into the latest innovations driving the global digital economy.
Employer mentors like Ross McConnell from Yondr Group highlighted the diverse roles available in data centres, from cybersecurity to sustainability, inspiring students to pursue careers in this dynamic industry.
Building a Sustainable Talent Pipeline
Day two featured a panel discussion moderated by Allan Bosley from Ark Data Centres, focusing on addressing the talent shortage in the digital infrastructure industry. Educators and industry representatives discussed strategies to create a sustainable talent pipeline and bridge the skills gap to meet future workforce demands.
The Digital Futures Programme is lauded for its role in raising awareness of industry opportunities, providing hands-on experience for young talent, and shaping the digital workforce of tomorrow.
Empowering the Next Generation of Digital Leaders
As the digital landscape evolves, ALET UTCs & Partners remain dedicated to empowering the next generation of digital leaders through hands-on experiences, industry partnerships, and innovative educational programs. To learn more about the Digital Futures Programme and ALET’s UTCs, visit their website.
*The thirteen partners supporting the Digital Futures programme include Amazon Web Services, ARK Data Centres, CBRE, CNet Training, CyrusOne, DataX Connect, Digital Realty, JLL, Kao Data, LMG, Vertiv, VIRTUS Data Centres, and Yondr Group.
