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C5 Alliance in Guernsey has enrolled a further university student on its bursary scheme, as part of a drive to increase the number of students returning to the island.
The recipient of the latest bursary, Alex Guilmoto, begins his studies in Computer Science at the University of Warwick this year. He joins C5’s current bursary students Daniel Wainwright, a second year Computer Science and Maths student at Manchester University and Matt Coleman, a fourth year Electronics and Computer Science student at the University of Exeter.
The no-strings-attached bursary offers undergraduates studying subjects relevant to the technology sector – such as computer science, physics and maths – a financial grant and the opportunity to undertake summer work with the company.
Matthew Thornton, Director of Professional Services at C5 Alliance, who himself holds a PhD from the University of Southampton, said that ongoing issues with recruiting skilled IT workers on-island meant it was vital to connect with and support the island’s emerging talent from an early stage.
“We firmly believe that the onus is on employers to solve this oft-cited ‘skills deficit’. It’s not that Guernsey is wanting for smart, savvy young people; they just aren’t always coming back after university. There is relevant work available here and those companies should be raising awareness of this by forging relationships as soon as possible.
“Summer placements are equally important, allowing those students to gain relevant contacts and experience. If we can’t place a tech student at C5, we will always look at placing them elsewhere in the island’s tech sector because ensuring skilled graduates eventually return to Guernsey and to meaningful employment is of benefit to us all,” he said.
Last year C5 launched its graduate academy, which saw Michael Wade and Tim Ogier, graduates in web applications development and physics respectively, join C5 as trainee consultants.
“Our academy allows entry-level candidates to train and develop on-island – whether that’s in a hands-on technical capacity or in other aspects of the industry, such as business analysis and project management – and we’re keen to attract new graduates each year. Michael and Tim have already been involved in some extremely interesting work and developed quickly. They will go on to do great things,” said Dr Thornton.
“It is far more costly and complicated for local employers to import qualified workers from the UK or further afield. If we can inspire our native talent and cultivate a steady stream of returning graduates we will be in a much better position. It’s about actively seeking out those with potential.”
Applications for the next bursary, for students beginning their studies in September 2017, will open early next year.
C5 Alliance offers a number of opportunities for graduates and undergraduates looking for a career in the local technology sector. For more information on what’s available, contact digitaljobsgsy@c5alliance.com.
