University of Derby in partnership to launch first national careers event for technicians

UK-wide employers are joining forces with Midlands-based universities to inspire the next generation of technicians in science, technology and the creative arts at the biggest careers event of its kind in the UK, TechxFest.

Led by MI TALENT, a transformation programme to advance status and opportunity for technical skills, roles and careers, TechxFest is being delivered in partnership with the University of Derby with support from MP Amanda Solloway, who launched the Research England funded project. 

The event will bring together hundreds of industry partners on 28 September 2023 at Derby Arena to encourage around 500 Year 9 and 10 students from the East Midlands to consider a future technical career path. 

The University of Derby, University of Nottingham, Rolls-Royce and Nestlé Waters will be amongst the employers exhibiting alongside demonstrations bringing technical skills to life, with many more expected to sign up.

Mark Jefferies, Chief of University Research Liaison, Rolls-Royce said:

“Technical expertise and a strong, diverse cohort of talent are essential to Rolls-Royce’s success. We’re delighted to be supporting TechxFest – a unique event in collaboration with the University of Nottingham and the University of Derby that focuses on technical roles and careers. We’re particularly thrilled it is being hosted here in the Midlands and we look forward to meeting our potential technical talent of the future.”

Sally Akehurst, Head of the School of Human Sciences at the University of Derby, commented:

“By enriching the diversity within STEM, not only can we foster greater innovation, but also provide fantastic opportunities to our young students of the future. We need to open their eyes to the breadth of careers available and ignite their desire to impact the future through STEM. The technical profession is one that thrives in the East Midlands through world-leading industries and universities, providing our young people with a wealth of employment opportunity in the future through informed choices.”

Kelly Vere MBE, University Director of Technical Strategy at the University of Nottingham, said:

“Technicians play a vital role in all aspects of society, yet the technical profession suffers from a lack of visibility and recognition. Career opportunities are often not promoted or well known, which is something we’re committed to influencing through increased knowledge, developing partnerships and initiatives. 

TechxFest is one way that TALENT is helping to inspire the next generation of technicians through outreach activities that engage young people. This event creates a platform for employers to plug future skills gaps and generate a pipeline of new technical talent working within research, innovation, teaching and knowledge exchange roles.”

Derby North MP Amanda Solloway said:

“I am absolutely delighted to be involved with TechxFest, which looks set to be one of the biggest careers events of its kind, here in Derby, the birthplace and home of science and innovation.

“It is vital to inspire the next generation of technicians whose ingenuity, creativity and determination will help shape our society. These skilled professionals are needed in almost every industry and it is today’s young people that will help ensure our changing world develops for the better.

“TechxFest promises to connect that burgeoning talent with the very best educators and the leading industries, harnessing their potential and building an exciting new generation of technical talent.”

For more information visit the TechxFest website.