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Wed 20th Feb 2002 : First Technology Associate Starts Work
Rotherham school-leaver Nicola Foster is the first to get a job under a new scheme set up by UK Steel Enterprise and REACT, the Regional Technology Centre. The Technology Associates scheme has been established to improve local job opportunities for school leavers and former steelworkers in IT and technology areas.

Nicola (18), who left Wales High School in the summer with a GNVQ in Advanced Business Studies, has already made her mark at ENS Precision Engineering in Wales, Rotherham, where her computer skills have already made a difference to the company.

As assistant to company director Kay Atwell, Nicola has taken over many of the IT and administrative functions producing data sheets, accounts reports, refining the use of the computer system and setting up email accounts.

Nicola secured the position after a representative from REACT visited the school and explained the new scheme which provides IT and specialist technology training alongside a subsidy to the employer to reduce initial employment costs. In addition, technical consultants are also available to the company to assist with projects on which the Technology Associate is working.

With Kay Atwell wanting to step back from her administrative position before too long, Nicola now has ambitions to take on a more prominent role.

"I am continuing with my IT training" she explained, "The experience I am gaining will help me to play an important role within the firm. I would like to think I will be able to take charge of the administration department in a few years time."

In the few months she has been with ENS she has taken on complex accounts procedures, wages, profit and loss accounting, health and safety matters and contracts of employment.

UK Steel Enterprise is the regeneration and job creation arm of Corus Group. Regional Manager Keith Williams, who has provided the finance for the scheme, commented, "This is an excellent scheme which makes it easier for local companies to employ new staff in technology areas. Individuals get a job placement with training and mentoring support. Companies receive a subsidy towards employment costs and even consultancy assistance."

"UK Steel Enterprise is pleased to be able to join forces with the Regional Technology Centre and it is good to see the scheme off to a good start. We hope that Nicola's success will be an encouragement to others to apply for a Technology Associates placing," he added.

REACT Operations Manager Geoff Armitage added, "This scheme is a winner. Anyone securing a job placement will have access to state of the art technology to help them develop their design, manufacturing and other business-related skills. For the businesses in South Yorkshire it means more trained and talented people in the jobs pool."

CLICK HERE for further information regarding technology recruitment and the TAS Scheme