Computing students at the University of Worcester have benefited from additional training in data analytics with an industry specialist on a two-day bootcamp.
Nick Seagrave, from Ingersoll Rand, with Computing students taking part in the bootcamp (l to r) Carolina Furtado, Luke Marshall-Watkin and Nathan Reader.
Offered by the University’s Business School, the training focused on data analytics platform provider Qlik and was designed to give them extra skills and boost their career prospects.
On offer to any Business degree students, the Qlik Bootcamp refreshed learning students had done previously on Qlik through the Computing course, developed further students’ knowledge and hands-on skills on the platform and enabled them to put them into practice. Students built an app then used that app to analyse data. The Bootcamp also helped students prepare for the Qlik Business Analyst Qualification, which they had the chance to take at the end of the bootcamp. Sessions were run by a representative from Ingersoll Rand, a global manufacturer of industrial equipment, which has a factory in Redditch.
Software company Qlik provides a data analytics, integration and Artificial Intelligence (AI) platform and is one of those used globally. As part of Qlik’s academic programme, students at the University have access to Qlik software and learning resources to develop their data analytics skills during their degree.
The bootcamp was a joint project between the University, Ingersoll Rand, and Qlik. It is part of the Business School’s ARC (Aspire, Reward, Connect) Programme, which encourages local businesses to give what assistance they can to the University’s students, from providing financial support to work experience or learning opportunities, to sharing their expertise.
Computer Science Master’s student, Carolina Furtado, said: “It’s been really useful. I’ve even looked at positions with Qlik, so I’ll definitely continue to use this tool. Usually for jobs they ask if you know how to use analytic tools. It’s one of the skills that’s most searched for in the business field.”
Third year Computing student, Luke Marshall-Watkin, added: “I wanted to do the workshop, not only to have hands-on experience but to also have someone who is able to help people when they are stuck and provide further clarification whilst completing the training. That kind of experience from an instructor is invaluable. The Bootcamp and getting the qualification gives you experience, but also shows you have aptitude. From speaking to employers, it is about making sure you stand out, so being involved in extracurricular courses like this is helpful.”
Nathan Reader, also in the third year of a Computing degree, said: “It’s been a nice refresher and has expanded my current knowledge. I have had a couple of queries with Qlik, so it’s been good to talk through it with someone who knows the software and knows what to look for.”
Nick Seagrave, Director of Business Intelligence and Analytics at Ingersoll Rand, who oversaw the sessions, said: “People helped me in my career early on so it’s an opportunity for me to come in and pass some of my experience and knowledge on to these students. The students are very conscientious and have been asking good questions.”
He added: “Data and AI are clearly growth industries and people with the ability to take data, analyse it and get people answers to the questions they need to run their operations are going to be in demand. As the tools get more and more powerful, you still need the people with the right skillset to analyse process and data.”
Richard Wilkinson, the University’s Head of Computing, said: “The experience itself is really valuable for the students. To be in a room with a professional in the field delivering training in a specific product. That more business focused training will stand them in good stead as graduates when they’re entering the workforce.
He added: “They’re also getting a professional, internationally recognised qualification that will be very relevant to future careers and managers will see they were prepared to get additional certificates alongside their degree.”