The tech sector in the North East is growing and evolving rapidly, with many exciting developments in recent years. The region is home to a diverse range of technology companies, from large multinationals to innovative startups, and boasts a highly skilled workforce.

The region has a strong focus on emerging technologies, with particular strengths in areas such as cybersecurity, immersive technology (e.g. virtual and augmented reality), and fintech. The tech sector in North East England is dynamic and growing, and presents many exciting opportunities for businesses, investors, and individuals looking to work in the field.

Tech Jobs in the North East

Having a job in the tech sector in North East England can offer a range of benefits, from contributing to economic growth to providing career opportunities and the chance to work on innovative projects. Here are some of the reasons to choose a pathway into tech and digital.

Economic Growth

The tech sector is a fast-growing industry that is contributing significantly to the economic growth of the North East. With the rise of digital technologies, there is a growing demand for skilled workers in areas such as software development, data analysis, and cybersecurity. By working in the tech sector, you are helping to drive economic growth in the region.

Career Opportunities

The tech sector offers a wide range of career opportunities, from entry-level positions to senior management roles. As the industry continues to grow, there will be an increasing demand for skilled workers, creating new job opportunities and career paths.

Innovation

The tech sector is at the forefront of innovation, developing new technologies and solutions that can transform industries and improve people's lives. By working in the tech sector, you have the opportunity to be part of this innovation, creating new products and services that can make a difference.

Skills Development

The tech sector is constantly evolving, with new technologies and tools being developed all the time. By working in the tech sector, you have the opportunity to develop your skills and knowledge, keeping up with the latest trends and technologies.

Collaborative Work Environment

The tech sector is known for its collaborative work environment, with teams working together to solve complex problems and develop new solutions. By working in the tech sector, you have the opportunity to work with a diverse range of people, including designers, developers, project managers, and business analysts, among others.

Importance of Interactions

On the 30th of January, we celebrated the Digital and STEM sector with our Sunderland Digital Careers Expo held at Hope Street Xchange in Sunderland. We welcomed 19 businesses and education providers to speak to people in Sunderland about what they offer.

The event highlighted some amazing businesses and learning providers we have in the North East, and was open to school students, those looking for employment in the sectors and those who may be interested in a career change.

The Sunderland Digital Careers Expo was a resounding success, largely due to the efforts of the participating businesses and learning providers in engaging with attendees and sharing insights about their job roles and the skills required to succeed in the tech sector.

The Expo brought together a diverse range of businesses and job seekers, creating a vibrant atmosphere that was buzzing with excitement about the opportunities that the tech sector has to offer in the North East. Attendees had the chance to interact with representatives from leading companies in the industry, who shared valuable information about their organizations, as well as the various job roles and career paths available to aspiring professionals.

By engaging directly with attendees and providing information about the skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the industry, businesses were able to generate significant interest in the tech sector among school students and job seekers. Attendees left the event feeling inspired and motivated to pursue a career in this exciting and dynamic field.

The Expo also served as a platform for businesses to showcase their commitment to nurturing talent and promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace. By highlighting the various initiatives and programs that they have in place to support the personal and professional development of their employees, businesses were able to demonstrate that the tech sector is a welcoming and inclusive space for people from all backgrounds and walks of life.

The Sunderland Digital Careers Expo was a tremendous success, driven by the active participation of businesses in engaging with attendees and sharing valuable insights about the tech sector. By generating interest and excitement among job seekers, the event helped to promote the region as a hub for innovation and talent, paving the way for continued growth and success in the years to come.

Thank you

We would love to give a huge shoutout and massive thanks to the people who helped make the Sunderland Digital Careers Expo such a success. This was only possible because of the amazing educators and businesses that took time out to attend to help inspire and engage our future talent pipeline

Armatus Oceanic - Deep ocean science and consultancy.

BAI Communications - Providers of 5G and connected infrastructure.

Cosmo Digital Solutions - Technical-driven web solutions.

CyberNorth - The North East's cyber security cluster.

Digital Catapult NETV - Supporting organisations with the exploration and ethical adoption of advanced digital technologies.

ED6 - East Durham's Sixth Form College.

Enigma Interactive - Newcastle-based digital agency.

Get Some Foresight - E-learning courses for organisations.

Global Teacher - Charity providing education to off-grid communities.

Learning Curve Group - Providing training for businesses, further education providers and individuals.

MAADIGITAL - Gateshead-based agency specialising in immersive digital technology.

Mediaworks - Digital marketing agency lead by data, tech, creativity and strategy.

Seriös Group - Specialising in data analytics and testing.

Sunderland College - Study A-Levels, T Levels, vocational courses and apprenticeships.

Tech Startup Sunderland - Free support and co-working space for new and growing tech startups.

Tech Talent Engine - An online hub for digital careers in the North East.

Tech Talent Ready - Fully-funded skills programmes to help individuals get into tech.

Unipres - Sunderland-based automotive manufacturers.

Also, a huge thanks to the team at Hope Street Xchange who were fabulous hosts for the event.

Conclusion

Our school programmes exist to promote STEAM and digital careers in the North East and support the fantastic emerging talent that we have in the region. Having the support of local businesses is invaluable. Students often highlight to us the impact that workshops, tours and presentations with digital and tech organisations allows them to develop a more informed decision for the pathways they want to take.

If you would like to learn more or get involved in the next Sunderland Digital Careers Expo, please get in touch with our Schools Outreach Coordinator, Jessica Sawyers, on: jessica.sawyers@sunderlandsoftwarecity.com