Talent4Tech Competition Winners Receive Prizes at Caerleon Comprehensive School

Talent4Tech, held on the 18th October 2023, at the International Convention Centre Wales as part of Wales Tech Week, proved to be a resounding success, providing an immersive and informative experience to 900 attendees exploring opportunities in the dynamic world of technology.

With the continuous rise in demand for tech-savvy professionals, Talent4Tech played a crucial role in bridging the gap between aspiring talent and the thriving tech ecosystem in Wales. The event welcomed a diverse audience, including secondary school pupils, university students, graduates, returners, and career changers, creating a unique platform for them to connect with industry experts, explore new opportunities, and gain invaluable insights into launching and advancing their tech careers.

Attendees of the Talent4Tech day had the opportunity to engage in a competition to win one of six Amazon Fire Tablets. Among the winners were two sixth form students from Caerleon Comprehensive School in Newport, Max Caruana and Sot-Sai Thomas. 

Anna Simmonds, Head of Engagement & Delivery, and Stephanie Stephens, Marketing Manager, of Technology Connected, the creators of Wales Tech Week and Talent4Tech, personally visited the school to deliver the prizes and extend congratulations to the students.

(In the photograph – Students Sot-Sai Thomas and Max Caruana, along with Head of Computing and Creative Technology, Dr Craig Jenkins, and Computing Teacher, Mr Amin Said)

“The IT industry in Wales is growing and our students need to be prepared. Social Media Analyst, Video Game Artist, Software Developer, these are all very different roles demanding different skill sets. Technology Connected has provided a unique opportunity for learners to understand why it is so important, that for IT industries to continue to succeed in Wales, a diverse range of future talent is needed to take up the mantle. Congratulations to our winners on not only gaining shiny new tablets, but also for gaining a valuable life opportunity.”

Dr Craig Jenkins, Head of Computing and Creative Technology at Caerleon Comprehensive School

“In my view the tech industry still has an image problem – we need to break stereotypes and attract talent from across the whole population, and become far more inclusive and diverse. At Talent4tech, we wanted to shift perceptions about working in Wales, showcase the highly-skilled, well-paid roles available, and highlight the breadth and depth of organisations in the sector, from the dynamic new startup to the multinational corporation. It was truly inspiring to see the enthusiasm and engagement from the diverse group of attendees at Talent4Tech. The competition injected an extra layer of engagement, providing participants the chance to win Amazon Fire Tablets – congratulations to all the winners!”

Avril Lewis, Managing Director of Technology Connected

Talent4Tech stands as a pivotal platform, seamlessly connecting individuals with the expansive opportunities within the tech industry in Wales. It serves as a vital gateway for aspiring talent to not only explore but deeply engage, learn, and propel themselves forward in the ever-evolving and dynamic world of technology.”

The Talent4Tech sessions are available for playback on the Wales Tech Week YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmr8lkMc68R0umGA_rd592Q