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Industry-leading technology a ten-minute drive from his home attracted Joseph Bennett to his IoT course.
And he will use his digital skills to boost the Blackpool economy as he plans to stay in the town at the end of his studies.
The 20-year-old is studying a Digital Technology Solutions (Network Engineering) degree apprenticeship at the IoT’s academic partner Blackpool and The Fylde College. He spends a day a week studying and four days employed by the college to manage the digital facilities at its Bispham campus. He joined the three-year Level 6 course after completing a T Level in digital support services at Blackpool.
“I’ve always been interested in networking and developing systems,” he says. “When I looked at what to do next it was 50/50 the familiarity of already knowing the college and the staff and the technology the IoT offered that made me choose this course.”
The balance of working and studying works well for Joseph, who is there to provide technical support to tutors during his four days at work, putting his learning into practice straight away.
“I did a data analytics class one day and then the next day I used that knowledge at work,” he says.
Joseph, Digital Technology Solutions (Network Engineering)
The equipment is a highlight of the IoT, with the Bispham facilities inspiring learners of all ages and Joseph says this is accessible whenever they want to use it.
“We have esports labs to get learners involved in this industry that’s growing and that wouldn’t be possible without the IoT,” he says. “There’s also some crossover with other subjects, like art students using the virtual reality Igloo to showcase their portfolios.”
Businesses, too, have been able to use the equipment, from Lancashire Constabulary using it the Igloo to simulate riot training to an ebike business using it to film an advert and others using it for presentations or events. Being around the tech, and seeing it used for real-world applications, shows the IoT learners just what is possible – and inspires their learning.
As for what he’ll do after his course, Joseph isn’t sure yet, but says he intends to stay in his hometown to use his skills. The IoT was set up to boost skills in the region, benefiting current businesses and with the aim of attracting new ones. “I like living in Blackpool so my goal is to stay here but without the IoT I’d probably have had to go to Manchester or Liverpool to study,” he says. “I live a ten-minute drive away from this amazing equipment and it’s more affordable to live and study here.”
“I like living in Blackpool so my goal is to stay here, but without the IoT I’d probably have had to go to Manchester or Liverpool to study."
