The programme provides an opportunity for technical leaders to develop key skills for the critical roles they hold in their organisations. It was designed to increase confidence amongst technical staff and to help ensure visibility, recognition, sustainability and career development within their roles. Interest in the course exceeded expectations and 22 participants were selected from universities across the UK to take part.
Two participants have shared their experiences with us. Kate Thornton, Faculty Technical Resources Manager at Queen Mary University of London, said:
“In the Higher Education sector, the current senior technical managers are pioneers. They are often working in brand new positions, effectively forging a path into the unknown. They want to do the best they can for their institutions but are often struggling to pull together all the information they need from different parts of their organisations.
“This course brings together a myriad of hot topics which have an impact on technical staff in HE but of which we are often on the periphery in terms of inclusion. The aim is for technical managers and aspiring technical managers to gain a greater understanding of these areas and to go back to our home institutions and make these areas inclusive for technical staff. Already I’m feeling inspired. The first residential left me feeling empowered that there were like-minded individuals who wanted to see the recognition of technical staff improved, our roles appreciated and valued, and this course allows us to do this together.”
Gemma Black, Head of Technical Services, Development & Strategy at the University of Leicester, said:
“It is an absolute honour and I am very excited to be a part of the first cohort on the world-leading Executive Programme in Strategic Technical Leadership. The opportunity to meet and network with other members of the cohort at the start of the programme was invaluable and has built a great foundation for the rest of the programme. Sharing experiences and building a strong network with other technical leads is an important part of this programme for me. It is supporting me to understand the journey we are all on and it is fantastic to have others with shared experiences who are open to discussions.
“I am very much looking forward to participating in further online sessions and excited to meet up in person with the rest of the cohort at the end of the programme. We will have been on an exciting journey together and we will have a lot to talk about!”
Gemma also offered some advice for those looking to apply to future cohorts:
“Be honest in your application about why you would like to participate in the course and the benefits this would bring to your career objectives – don’t be scared to share your journey. Ensure you have strong support from your line manager for your personal development and that this is evidenced in your application.”
You can find out more about the programme and how to apply for future cohorts on the Executive Education website.
The Institute offers a range of learning and development opportunities for technical staff across the UK. Find out more about the UK Institute for Technical Skills and Strategy.
Kate Thornton on LinkedIn
Gemma Black on LinkedIn
