Infrastructure management provider 4D Data Centre has embarked on a gold sponsorship with I'm an Engineer, an online, student-led STEM enrichment activity connecting schoolers with working network engineers from across the UK.
The event has two objectives: to demonstrate to children that engineers and scientists are people they can relate to while explaining that data centres exist and discussing the wealth of career opportunities they offer.
Throughout November, engineers from various companies, in industries anywhere from construction to design, will be on hand, ready to answer students’ questions about working in engineering through an online text-based programme.
The news comes at a time when the UK tech sector is experiencing a widening shortage of skilled talent. According to 4D Data Centre, this is raising concerns in many industries, with many believing that the skills deficit in the industry must be tackled at a grassroots level. This includes placing a greater emphasis on careers in STEM subjects such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
“Shortages in our industry will take at least 10 years to address if we do it by ourselves,” said David Barker (pictured), founder and chief technology officer of 4D Data Centres. “We are struggling to find network engineers and others with knowledge of high-voltage electronics. If it continues like this we could struggle to maintain services. It’s unsustainable.”
The company said there is a lack of clarity about the sector and the career opportunities it offers, which is why initiatives like I’m an Engineer need to be made more accessible and provide students with realistic role models in the form of existing engineers.
“We need to get the sector to a good place and get the attention of upcoming talent, educating them on the opportunities the data centre industry offers and encouraging them to come on board,” added Barker. “If the options aren’t made clear and early enough, roles are only going to get harder to fill.”
