Level 3 Digital & IT students at Hull College were recently given an exclusive insight into the future of tech in Hull and digital skills by industry experts from Apple and KCOM.‍

Organised by Tech Week Humber and hosted at KCOM’s new Carr Lane site, the event saw Europe, Middle East, India and Africa People Director at Apple, Hannah Reid, and KCOM’s Senior Digital Optimisation Manager, Lucy Sykes give an informative and inspirational talk to those in attendance, with a focus on their careers to-date and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead with a career in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

Students listened first-hand to Hannah’s experiences working for Apple and how her path in life shaped her career with one of the largest tech companies in the world. Lucy, who has now worked in Hull for several years, also discussed how being a woman working in technology is not as daunting as it may first seem.

Reflecting on the trip, Hull College Vice-Principal Lynette Leith said: “We are delighted that our students were afforded the opportunity to hear from industry experts at KCOM and Apple. Our students found the talk inspiring and informative. Connecting college students with experts in the sector is both refreshing and aspirational. These opportunities are so impactful on education, and for students, particularly in broadening their horizons regarding next steps and career aspirations.

“We are looking forward to what's next for our students and how these encounters will influence their thinking in terms of career opportunities here in the Humber and everything the digital sector has to offer nationally. Thank you to KCOM, Apple and Tech Week Humber for providing this level of exposure.”

Speaking after the success of the event, Tech Week Humber founder Antonio Tombanane was quick to express his delight at having the opportunity to highlight their work in the region and shine a light on the thriving tech industry in the city of Hull. He said: “We were delighted to have Hannah in Hull to meet with leaders and students from the region. Hannah's world-class experience in tech and people management is invaluable to our board. The Humber is on a transformational mission which will impact many lives. Technology is at the centre of it all. We want the Humber to be a leading hub for digitally skilled communities that will attract global brands.”

Hannah, who is also an advisory board member at Tech Week Humber, added: “It was an honour and privilege to experience first-hand a taste of the future of tech in Hull. Tech Week Humber and the plans for The Edge Hub showcase the innovation coming out of Hull and the vision for an explosion of tech talent in the North of England. I'm even more excited that these plans have an intentional focus on underrepresented communities, inclusion and diversity.”

Tech Week Humber and The Edge Hub use a global tech community to highlight the region as a centre for innovation and talent, providing opportunities for scaling, exporting and skills growth. The invaluable knowledge from Apple’s Hannah Reid helps shape the digital presence in the region, encouraging growth of technology in the Humber. The tech presence in Hull continues to flourish as global brands, key stakeholders, and tech experts recognise the region for its digital advancements.

To find out more or for further enquiries, please visit www.techweekhumber.com or www.the-edgehub.co.uk.