11.11.13
Network Rail IT competition to increase opportunities for women
A new competition has been launched to get more women into IT. Network Rail’s ‘Could IT be you?’ competition aims to show what career opportunities are available in the IT sector.
A new survey for Network Rail of British women aged 16-24 found that 64% had not considered a career in IT, negative stereotypes put 10% off pursuing a career in IT, 43% said a lack of technical skill held them back, while 41% said inadequate career advice or little insight into the industry was a barrier.
The competition includes questions and a short personal essay, after which 50 entrants will be invited to a networking day in February. Participants will be asked to record a minute-long film about their experience of the day and the top four films will win two weeks work experience at Network Rail. The overall winner will get this as well as their first year of university fees paid and ongoing mentoring.
Network Rail’s chief information officer, Susan Cooklin said: “Popular culture has helped create a perception amongst young women that a career in IT is all about writing code in basement offices – the reality couldn't be further from the truth.
“Could IT Be You aims to break down those myths and help young women realise how the skills and behaviours they already have – such as good communications, problem solving and working creatively – are exactly what business leaders are after. While there are people in my team who are technical experts with IT-related qualifications, there are just as many whose skills lie in other important areas and do a critical job delivering the IT projects that make our railway run better.”
You can apply here.
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