Why Tech Apprenticeships are more beneficial than University!

This is the time of year when students are deciding if they are going to spend the next 3 years in University or pursue an alternative route to their chosen career! With the introduction of the new Tech Apprenticeships in Ireland, the misconception and view that apprenticeships are considered to be 'a second class route' to a career in IT is changing, they are now seen as a viable and attractive alternative to going to University and here are some of the reasons why!!

Money, this 'earn while you learn' model enables students to earn a wage, it is a job like any other job, yes at a lower rate of pay while your training but you will still have an income and a way to support yourself, while other students are struggling with student loans! There will be no tuition fees, no accommodation fees, and no debt!!

You will be learning good work ethics and practices, and developing your soft skills, communication skills, self-confidence, as well as the practical application of your new skills, which will increases your employability skills in the future, skills which University students are not gaining and are in demand in Industry. Plus instead of spending hours after you graduate trying to find a job with no practical experience you will be well on your way to your chosen career.

As an apprentice you will also be supporting the IT Industry in Ireland, helping to fill the skills gaps and adding value to your company from day one, while you earn money and learn invaluable new skills yourself, There will be opportunities to develop a network of key people and mentors in the industry who can help you on your career path and you will make new friends for life who have similar interests to you and can support you in your chosen profession. As an apprentice you are not expected to know everything or have all the answers, you will be in a supportive environment where you will have a mentor who will help you gain confidence in your role and answer any questions you may have, you never have to feel afraid to address any anxieties or concerns you may have. Your colleagues will only be too happy to help.

You will be studying for the qualifications you need to pursue a career in your chosen profession while you work, with many of the new apprenticeships offering the option of a future pathway to a degree by distance learning if desired. This can all be done while earning money and gaining practical experience which you cannot acquire while attending University full-time. You will be acquiring new skills everyday, skills which you can add to your CV as you go along and developing as a person, you will be engaging with colleagues and customers which will increase your confidence and people skills, how many students can say that after completing their degrees in University. You will be working with experts in the field, people who know the ins and ours of their profession and the way the sector works. When you ask questions you will be getting an excellent insight into the role, this is a real-life insight into the role rather than a classroom simulation where lecturers are paid to teach you but are not involved directly with industry.

Anyone interested in pursuing a career in IT as a Systems Engineer or Software Engineer through the apprenticeship route we would be delighted to assist you please apply online at www.fit.ie or contact me [email protected] for further information.