Explore strategies for managing digital apprenticeships with industry experts.
Speakers
- Tony Pitchford
- Anya Bridges
- Lewis Clarke
Agenda
5:00pm - Webinar waiting lobby opens
5:15pm - Panel event starts
6:15pm - Q&A
6:30pm - Event Close
Synopsis
This panel discussion, hosted by WYBCS, brings together leading professionals in digital apprenticeships to share their insights and experiences on managing and supporting digital apprentices in tech-focused roles.
Delegates will hear from Tony Pitchford, Account Director at BCS, on the development of effective apprenticeship programmes and the importance of nurturing digital skills. Anya, a cybersecurity expert from Bob’s Business, will offer perspectives on growing talent within the cybersecurity sector and her journey from apprentice to respected leader. Lewis, a Digital Technology Apprentice at BAE Systems, will share first-hand insights into the value of apprenticeships within high-stakes engineering projects for maritime defence.
Learning points:
- Strategies for designing and managing impactful digital apprenticeship programmes.
- Real-world insights into career growth within tech, from apprentice to leader.
- Tips for supporting apprentices’ professional development and skills training.
- Guidance on promoting diversity and inclusion within digital apprenticeships.
- Practical approaches to improving apprentices’ career pathways and progression in technology fields.
This event provides delegates with a unique chance to learn directly from leaders in digital apprenticeships, gaining practical tools and insights to strengthen and enhance their own apprenticeship programmes.
About the speakers
Tony Pitchford
Tony Pitchford Account Director, BCS – The Chartered Institute for IT Tony is an Account Director at BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT, where he works with employers and training providers to help them set up and deliver high-quality apprenticeship programmes and skills development projects. Tony has been promoting digital skills and apprenticeships in tech roles for over 19 years and is a regular speaker and writer on topics such as apprenticeships, digital skills, AI, ethics, and tech careers.
Anya Bridges
Anya is the operations and project manager at Bob’s Business, one of the UK’s leading, and oldest, cybersecurity awareness training companies. She entered the industry as a cybersecurity technician apprentice and over the years, has developed into a respected thought leader within the cybersecurity community, sharing detailed insight into the human side of cybersecurity. Anya also serves on the steering committee for the Yorkshire Cyber Security Cluster and contributes to the national UKC3 Cyber Skills Working Group. Away from her day-to-day role Anya organises and hosts numerous events, including monthly networking sessions for professionals and students, school visits to promote careers in tech, and summer schools for aspiring cyber security professionals. Her experience of being a young woman in the industry means she is an active advocate for women in tech and is dedicated to empowering the next generation of cyber professionals.
Lewis Clarke
Lewis is a Digital Technology Apprentice at BAE Systems, currently in the second year of his apprenticeship programme, specialising in software engineering for maritime technologies deployed by the Royal Navy. His team focuses on critical areas, including anti-submarine warfare and fleet protection solutions. As part of his professional development, Lewis undertakes block placements at Cranfield University. In addition to his technical role, he serves as a STEM Ambassador for BAE Systems, engaging with schools and colleges to inspire future talent and expand outreach for early career pathways in technology and engineering.
Our events are for adults aged 16 years and over.
BCS is a membership organisation. If you enjoy this event, please consider joining BCS. You’ll be very welcome. You’ll receive access to many exclusive career development tools, an introduction to a thriving professional community and also help us Make IT Good For Society. Join BCS today
This event is brought to you by: West Yorkshire branch and the Yorkshire Cyber Security Cluster
