Careers

Finishing a career break? Tech Returners helps you jump into technology

24 Oct, 2017

Tech is a field that requires constant education. There’s always something new to learn, and if you take a break from your career it can be a challenge to catch up. That’s where Tech Returners comes in.

This new course is aimed at those returning to work who were previously involved in tech, or want to start anew in the sector. It’s been started by Beckie Taylor, founder of CLOS Consultancy, and will run on Wednesdays from 10-2pm, from 15 November 2017 to 28 February 2018 at Barclays Eagle Lab at The Landing at Media City UK.

I dropped Beckie a line to find out more…

What prompted the initiative?

Following the work I have done around women in tech, it became apparent that there remains a lack of support for people returning to/entering into tech after a career break. I believe the industry is missing out on amazing talent which can contribute the Talent Skills gap.

I was also a tech returner after maternity leave and had the feelings of loss of confidence, feeling the loss of skills whilst I had been away from my career and the loss of network. The more I speak to people around the barriers for returners, I believe these are crucial areas to support them.

What are your plans for the future of Tech Returners?

An app and network are planned. The Tech Returners app (a ‘minimum viable product’ version) will be launched in the new year and will focus on four key areas: ‘Discover’ – discovering key development areas, ‘Develop’ – providing development in various ways and through various resources, ‘Network’ – building a community to support and share learning. Next year, we will add a ‘Career’ element showcasing employers with opportunities for returners.

We also have some exciting plans for the development of the app going forward around machine learning. The app will also be supported by further courses and events for returners and employers.

Who should apply?

Anyone who is looking to return or enter tech after a career break. The course will not only focus on technical skills delivered by Northcoders, but personal development by myself and an opportunity to use the tools in the Eagle Lab provided by Barclays.

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If you’d like to apply for Tech Returners, you can apply on its website until 27 October 2017.

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