Take a look up at our round-up of CW Techsters 2023. This year's cohort focused on exploring future tech innovations to help manage the cost-of-living crisis.
A diverse group of young people looking to impact the future of technology have successfully completed CW Techsters 2023. The Techsters programme is designed to introduce those aged 16-22 to technologies like AI, IoT and 5G while challenging them to seek solutions for real-world issues through future tech innovations. This year’s programme focused on the global cost-of-living crisis.
The first stage of the programme involved online training on Coding, IoT, Sustainability, AI and 5G. This was followed by an in-person bootcamp at the Bradfield Centre which focused on applying technology and its impacts. The participants explored the practicalities of AI and machine learning, how to turn data into action, including problem solving tools, all within a hands-on workshop. The third and final stage of the programme was an Ideation Workshop at the Bradfield Centre. This gave young participants the opportunity to learn from industry role-models, working alongside them to conceptualise technological advances to tackle the cost-of-living crisis.
Patricia Chan, leader and creator of CW Techsters, said: “This year’s programme was especially productive due to the variety of industry mentors who offered their invaluable support and expertise. The Techsters brainstormed ideas with their appointed mentors and presented a range of solutions, showcasing that the future of technology is indeed in bright hands.”
Zoubair Aouam, 2023 Techster cohort, said: “This was an amazing opportunity to meet industry experts and explore the latest innovations as well as future tech. The three stages of the programme included thought-provoking lessons and workshops which gave us a deeper understanding of technology and its potential. We had great fun and learnt so much working with our fantastic mentors.”
“CW Techsters is a great programme which allows you to learn about AI, Machine Learning and Product Planning, etc. whilst also allowing you to network with mentors around the UK. It's an interactive and fascinating taster of the tech industry. Everyone is friendly and interesting in their own way from their professional to personal interest, always with something beneficial to offer!" added Nabilah Uddin, 2023 CW Techster.
“At CW Techsters, I found that mentorship is a two-way street. As I helped younger talents navigate the realm of technology, their fresh outlooks inspired the change in my own approach and perspective. A truly invaluable experience,” said Marta Opalinska, Software Systems Engineer, TE Connectivity.
The mentors who contributed to the 2023 Techsters Programme were:
Charlie Allen, Apprentice Software Development Engineer, Amazon
Darendra Appanah, Senior Test Engineer, Cambridge Consultants
Logan Baber, Senior Test Engineer, Cambridge Consultants
Jade Holden, Software Development Engineer Apprentice, Amazon
Norbertas Kremeris, CPU Architect, Huawei R&D
Ryan Newcombe, Trainee Patent Attorney, Appleyard Lees
Marta Opalinska, Software Systems Engineer, TE Connectivity
Howard Read, Partner, Appleyard Lees
Alexander Towey, Hardware Test Engineer, Cambridge Consultants
Patricia Chan, Head of Business Development and Digital Skills Project Lead at CW, said: “We are very encouraged by the success of our CW Techsters Programme again this year, and are grateful for the support and advice from our mentors and cohorts who participated. CW is committed to fostering inclusivity and innovation in the technology sector, and we champion the younger generation of tech enthusiasts to narrow this gap of under-representation in the future.”
Take a look at some of the highlights from the bootcamp and Ideation Day for CW Techsters 2023 and find out more about CW Techsters.
