Smart Futures is a national careers campaign and web site, www.smartfutures.ie, that showcases the number and diversity of opportunities for young people in the technology sector.
Described as an online careers fair, it is being co-ordinated by ICT Ireland, the Irish Software Association and STEPS to Engineering, with the support of Discover Science and Engineering. The site emphasises that a qualification in technology is a gateway to exciting career prospects. It is sponsored by industry giants, such as Microsoft, Ericsson, SAP, HP and Cisco.
The first part of a campaign to accompany the web site commences with a nation-wide competition that asks students to create a piece of digital content reflecting the theme ‘Smart Futures’. There are a range of prizes, including laptops, Xbox Kinect, iPad, home cinemas and smart phones, but also work experience with top technology companies in Ireland, such as the Xbox Games Studio.
"Five of the top 10 exporters in Ireland are technology companies, and the sector is responsible for approximately one third of Ireland’s total turnover," said Paul Sweetman, director, ICT Ireland and the Irish Software Association. "It is clear that supporting the technology sector, for future economic growth, is crucial. A key competitive advantage Ireland possesses, which is continually referenced by technology companies, is the quality and quantity of skilled graduates available to work within the sector. In order to maintain and enhance this competitive advantage, industry and government must work together to highlight the great opportunities for sustainable and rewarding careers in the technology sector. Since January of this year, over 80 jobs a week have been announced in the sector. The ‘Smart Futures Online Careers Fair’ will play a leading role in broadcasting these opportunities to students and parents."
There are eight categories to enter: animation, audio, game, mobile app, podcast, tech article, video and web site. The deadline for entry is Friday 27 January 2012 and a full outline of competition categories, prizes and sponsors can be found on www.smartfutures.ie
On 23 January 2012 a week long careers fair will take place on the web site. Technology professionals from participating companies will be available each evening to answer career-related questions from students and guidance counsellors. Company profile pages are also available to give an overview of what these companies do, what kind of roles they have requirements for, what skill sets they are searching for and what it’s like to work there.
Follow the Smart Futures campaign at www.twitter.com/SmartFuturesIE and at www.Facebook.com/SmartFutures
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