Empowering the Next Generation of Women in Digital 

To mark International Women’s Day (Sunday 8th March) we welcomed back our alumni students Milly, Ka Lok and Catherine who shared their experiences of working in the digital and cyber industry as part of Girls into Tech week. 

This was the second year we have hosted a variety of inspiring Girls into Tech events designed to empower girls and women to explore careers in digital and cyber with the support of Women in Tech North East, CyberNorth and Tech on the Tyne. 

The week had everything – hands‑on workshops, chats with real industry role models, and honest conversations about ‘squiggly careers’ and allyship. Learners, staff and industry professionals came together for a hugely successful week that showed just how many opportunities there are in the North East tech scene. 

Milly, who now works at Accenture as an apprentice, was previously a student governor while she studied at the college, she said “Every experience, from being a student governor to joining board meetings, has strengthened my confidence and my network. If you’re thinking of joining the tech sector believe in your abilities and stay open‑minded. You never know what opportunities are waiting around the corner.” 

Catherine who was a previous Edge Award Winner in 2024, is also working at Accenture and gave advice for other students thinking of getting into the tech industry. ““For any students who want to follow a similar path, stay curious and get as much experience as you can. I’ve worked across a few different areas, and each one has taught me something new. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, people are always more friendly and open than you expect.” 

Ka Lok studied on one of our bootcamp programmes and as part of Girls into Tech she shared how her route into tech was more ‘squiggly’, she said “I originally studied Law at university, then spent two years working in the Civil Service as a Case Manager. After that, I realised I wanted to pivot into tech, so I completed the Government Cyber Security Bootcamp with Gateshead College. That experience was incredibly important in my transition, especially the connections I made, the soft skills I gained, and the support with applications. Shout out to Chelsea and Monika!” 

“This week has been amazing, from yesterday’s Girls in Tech event to today’s Women in Tech event. It means a lot to be in spaces where I can see women I relate to. I’ve been to tech events in the past where that wasn’t the case, so being part of something that supports and empowers women in tech feels really special and necessary.” 

This week also marks the beginning of our new partnership with Women in Tech North East – a collaboration that will enable the college to continue delivering events like these and create even more industry opportunities for our learners across the region. 

“Monika Sharma, Head of Digital Technologies and Games, said: ‘It’s been brilliant working with Women in Tech North East on this week’s events, and we’re excited to keep that going through our new partnership. It’s another step in our commitment to improving gender representation in the digital sector, and we’re looking forward to seeing the impact it has for our learners and the wider tech community.”