Our technical staff could soon benefit from an agreement signed last year by our University and external partners.
The Technician Commitment (TC) is a joint initiative between universities, the Science Council and the Gatsby Charitable Foundation’s Technicians Make it Happen campaign.
The campaign highlights the essential role technicians play in the growth and sustainability of many organisations. It also recognises the skills shortage at a technician level and is geared towards inspiring young people, particularly those that are naturally analytical, practical and real problem solvers, to become part of the next generation of the nation’s much needed technicians.
There are over 400 technical staff at our University working in both professional services and faculties. They play an important role in the success of our University, enhancing our reputation for delivering excellence, contributing towards the Education, Research and Enterprise agendas and, most importantly, working closely with students to ensure they have a positive experience at Southampton.
The TC aims to ensure there is visibility, recognition and career development for technicians working in higher education and research, across all disciplines.
A TC Steering Group has now been set up and is chaired by Professor Bashir Al-Hashimi, Dean of Engineering and Physical Sciences with involvement from academic leads from each faculty, and representatives from technical staff, iSolutions, Estates and Facilities, HR, and Communications and Marketing.
Bashir Al-Hashimi says:
“The University’s skilled and committed technical staff make significant contributions to our ability to undertake and deliver impactful research and enterprise, as well as to the support of our student’s education and improving their employability prospects.
The Technician Commitment is a welcome and timely initiative. It will help the University to develop sound plans to ensure this vital group’s contributions are visible and recognised and that they have sustainable career development in the future.”
For more information:
Join HEaTED, a regional networking event for technicians
