Sky has announced the launch of a free training programme for women seeking to work in the tech sector.
Beginning in April, ‘Get into Tech’, will seek to provide a supportive environment in which women can learn and develop essential tech skills.
The programme, designed in partnership with technology training specialists, will include courses in software development, testing and integration, as well as soft skills development and job preparation.
Elaine Bucknor, director for Group Technology Strategy, Security & Planning, said: “Our ‘Get into Tech’ training courses aim to address the real and well-recognised issue of too few females working in technology.
“For women who are just starting out, changing or returning to their careers, and who may not have otherwise considered technology jobs, the programme will help them build the skills they need to enter the industry. As technology continues to evolve and become an ever important part of our lives, I’m proud that at Sky we’re heralding a new age of women into tech,” she added.
Despite not receiving a formal qualification, the programme will seek to equip students with a portfolio of skills to boost their CVs and support their job searches.
Women who successfully complete the course will also be able to apply for jobs at Sky or for a place on Sky’s Software Engineering Academy.
Secretary of State for Education, Rt Hon Nicky Morgan MP commented: “I am delighted that Sky is working to support women in technology training, through their new ‘Get into Tech’ initiative. We know that traditionally too few women have been encouraged into STEM subjects, so Sky’s work to nurture the talent pipeline is incredibly welcome.”