Modis and Microsoft launch ‘women only’ space and defence training
To help address industry diversity, Adecco subsidiary Modis has partnered with Microsoft to launch a new training course for women in South Australia interested in the space and defence sector.
Targeted at current students and recent graduates, the free, 10-week Tech Start program will commence in March, and is open to any interested female applicants interested in pursuing a career in the space, defence and technology sector – regardless of their academic and professional backgrounds.
“Tech Start further demonstrates our commitment to supporting Australia, and South Australia, in becoming a leading player in the global space industry,” said Lynn McDonald, head of Microsoft’s Azure Space, which set up shop in Adelaide innovation district Lot Fourteen last year.
McDonald added, “Tech Start allows us an opportunity to support South Australians’ access to employment opportunities, with a focus on developing and nurturing a more diverse pool of talent.”
The first Tech Start program will focus on data analytics, with modules on cybersecurity and software development to be offered later in the year. The initial course, which will equip participants with the necessary skills and micro-credentials to gain entry level employment in data analysis roles, will be delivered through a variety of formats, including self-paced learning paths, study groups, and guided online and campus sessions.
In addition to the technical training, participants will be given the opportunity to develop professional connections and hear first-hand from professionals across the space and defence industry, including women working in the sector and guest speakers from PwC and Avanade. Local space industry partners, including Inovor Technologies, Electro Optic Systems and Saber Astronautics, will also provide industry insights.
“We are thrilled to be involved in such an important and meaningful initiative like Tech Start,” said Avanade General Manager Laura Malcolm. “This is an opportunity for Avanade to inspire and develop the next generation of women who will thrive and excel in the future of space, defence and technology. We believe the program will create genuine human impact, giving women the stepping-stone to build a rewarding career in this industry.”
Along with its industry partners, Modis and Microsoft have also secured support for the Tech Start initiative from the state’s leading education institutes, with University of South Australia, Adelaide University, and TAFE SA all pledging to promote the program to fresh graduates and through their alumni networks.
On completion of the course, participants will also be supported with finding placements, including with Empired and Modis’s technology consulting arm.
Anatoli Kovalev, Head of the Modis Tech Academy for Australia, said the education platform was established to help address the widening tech skills gap in areas such data analytics, cloud and cybersecurity. “Through our alliance with industry-leading training partners, we have unlocked greater access than ever to candidates with the advanced, in-demand skill-sets of technology and will be at the forefront of closing the gap in Australia.”
