Shaping Future Tech Leaders: Our Partnership with Salford University

At POWWR, we are extremely proud of our ongoing partnership with Salford University, an initiative designed to foster the next generation of tech talent. Every year, we welcome three talented interns from the university to join our team, offering them a blend of real-world experience and professional development. Here’s a closer look at how our collaborative programme works and the unique benefits it provides to both students and our organisation.

Excellence Begins with Education

Youssef Shehab, our esteemed Head of Architecture engineering at POWWR, is actively involved in nurturing young minds at Salford University. He delivers regular industry talks to Computer Science students, highlighting the soft skills that are crucial for a successful career in tech. These sessions also offer valuable insights into the dynamic and innovative culture of working within the technology industry.

A Year of Hands-On Learning

Selected students embark on a transformative 1-year placement with us. During this period, they receive extensive training encompassing industry standards, essential soft skills, and comprehensive software methodology. This hands-on experience enables students to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge gained through their studies and practical, applicable skills in a real-world setting.

Empowering the Future Workforce

From the perspective of the students, our programme offers an array of invaluable benefits. It is an opportunity to:

• Build Confidence: Engaging in real projects boosts student self-assurance.
• Learn New Skills: Exposure to cutting-edge technology and innovative practices enhances their skill set.
• Understand Strengths and Weaknesses: Individual mentorship helps identify and hone personal strengths and areas for improvement.
• Gain Real-Life Experience: Participation in our work environment provides a practical understanding of the tech industry.
• Take the First Career Step: Interns gain a significant career advantage, often paving the way for future opportunities in tech.
• Get Rewarded: Interns earn a professional-level income associated with the contribution and value they bring to POWWR.

A Steppingstone to Career Success

Many of our former students have taken significant strides in their professional journeys after their internships. While some continue to work part-time with us as they complete their studies, others have secured permanent positions at POWWR upon graduation. Adding to the appeal, we offer a very competitive salary for our interns, well above the national living wage.

Mutual Growth and Innovation

Our partnership with Salford University is mutually beneficial. From POWWR's perspective, the infusion of fresh perspectives and innovative ideas from students has been incredibly valuable. Each intern is paired with a mentor, facilitating a symbiotic learning relationship that not only nurtures the interns but also fosters leadership growth among our current staff.

For instance, a student recently tackled and resolved a complex piece of automation work in a few months—a task that had posed a challenge for our team for over 12 months. This underscores the unparalleled value of incorporating fresh talent and new viewpoints into our organisational processes.

A Gratifying Experience for All

Ultimately, this collaborative work is deeply gratifying for everyone involved. The students gain an unparalleled foundation for their future careers in tech, while we benefit from their energy, creativity, and innovative spirit.

At POWWR, we remain committed to empowering and equipping the next generation of tech leaders. Our partnership with Salford University is one of the many ways we achieve this goal.