Growing Future Talent at Computeam

At Computeam, we're passionate about investing in people. 

We believe talent should be nurtured, supported, and given every opportunity to thrive – from those taking their first steps into the technology industry to team members expanding into new skills and responsibilities.

The journeys of Jacques Taylor, Harriet Shanks and Tito show how apprenticeships, continuous learning and a supportive culture can build long-term careers and future leaders.

Building careers through opportunity

Jacques Taylor – from Apprentice Technician to Account Manager

Technology is only half the story for Jacques Taylor. Throughout his career in IT, his motivation has come from opportunities to solve complex problems, help others, and connect with people.

Jacques began his career over a decade ago as an Apprentice IT Technician in a local high school. In a fitting full-circle moment, it was Computeam that helped the school recruit him into that initial apprenticeship – years before he would officially join the team.

The apprenticeship provided a solid foundation, allowing Jacques to develop technical expertise, customer service skills and confidence in working directly with users.

In December 2020, Jacques joined Computeam as an IT Consultant, supporting schools with their technology environments and helping resolve day-to-day IT challenges. Through hard work, dedication and a willingness to embrace new opportunities, he progressed to Senior IT Consultant before moving into Account Management.

Today, Jacques combines his technical knowledge with his passion for relationship building. He works closely with schools to understand their strategic objectives, helping them maximise the value of their technology investments and ensuring they receive the support they need to succeed.

Reflecting on his journey, Jacques credits both the opportunities available at Computeam and the supportive culture that encourages individuals to keep developing and progressing.

Harriet Shanks - from IT Apprentice to Deputy Service Manager

Harriet's route into IT was shaped by determination, resilience and a passion for technology.

While studying for an IT degree, Harriet realised that practical, hands-on learning suited her far better than a traditional classroom environment. An IT apprenticeship opportunity arrived at exactly the right time and gave her the platform she needed to start building her career.

Joining Computeam as an IT Apprentice on the Service Desk, Harriet quickly developed both her technical capability and customer service skills. Her hard work and commitment resulted in her completing her apprenticeship with a Distinction.

One defining aspect of Harriet's career has been her willingness to explore new opportunities. During her time with Computeam, she gained experience in Marketing before realising her true passion remained in IT and supporting people through technology.

Since returning to IT, Harriet has progressed rapidly, moving from Assistant Service Manager to Deputy Service Manager within approximately 18 months. Today, she plays a key role in supporting the Service Desk, driving service improvements and leading a team that includes both current and future apprentices.

Having started her own career as an apprentice, Harriet is particularly passionate about helping others develop.

Building a passion for technology

For Tito, a career in IT started long before his first professional role. From a young age, he was fascinated by technology, spending time building PCs, emulating games and troubleshooting the issues that inevitably came with them.

What began as a hobby quickly developed into a passion for understanding how technology works and solving problems. Those early experiences laid the foundations for a successful career in IT support, where no two days are ever the same.

"What I enjoy most about IT is that there's always something new to learn, and every day brings a different challenge."

Why Computeam?

When considering where to build his career, Computeam stood out to Tito because of the company's mission and values.

Alongside providing IT support to businesses, Computeam's focus on education offered the opportunity to make a meaningful difference. Supporting schools and helping staff and students make the most of technology gave the role a greater sense of purpose.

Growing through opportunity

Tito joined Computeam as an apprentice and has steadily progressed through a number of roles during his career with the business.

Starting his journey as an Apprentice Engineer, he embraced every opportunity to learn, develop, and expand his technical expertise. Through dedication and hard work, Tito progressed into a 2nd Line Engineer role and has recently taken on management responsibilities, further broadening his skill set.

Alongside the technical knowledge gained throughout his career, Tito has also developed the communication, leadership and people management skills that are essential for long-term success in the IT industry.

"Throughout that journey, I've developed not only my technical knowledge but also the communication, leadership, and people-management skills that are essential for growth
in the IT industry."

His progression highlights Computeam's commitment to investing in talent, supporting career development and providing opportunities for colleagues to grow beyond their original roles.

Advice for future IT professionals

Having progressed from apprentice to technical leader, Tito is passionate about encouraging others to consider a career in IT:

"Make the most of the resources available to you"

“From free online courses and technical forums to industry communities and social media platforms, there are countless opportunities to build knowledge and gain practical experience.” 

“With so many different pathways available within the IT industry, spending time exploring
various specialisms can help identify the right fit.”

The Computeam Difference

Whilst Jacques, Harriet and Tito have followed different paths, their stories share common themes that define life at Computeam:

  Investing in potential

We recognise that talent can come from many different backgrounds and that there is no single route into a successful career. Apprenticeships provide an invaluable opportunity to learn, develop practical skills and gain real-world experience.

  Creating opportunities for growth

Career progression isn't limited to one pathway. Whether moving into leadership, specialising in technology, developing customer relationships or exploring opportunities in other areas of the business, we encourage people to develop in ways that align with their strengths and aspirations.

  Learning never stops

Technology is constantly evolving, and so are we. Through ongoing training, mentoring and hands-on experience, our people continue to develop throughout their careers.

  A supportive culture

Jacques, Harriet and Tito highlight Computeam's positive culture as a key contributor to their success. We believe people achieve their best when they feel supported, trusted and valued.