Future engineers from across Tower Hamlets have been given the opportunity to get a hands-on insight into the role.
Around 40 residents of the borough were able to handle equipment and try their hand at different wiring techniques thanks to a new partnership between leading broadband firm Hyperoptic and WorkPath, the council’s dedicated employment and training service.
When Hyperoptic needed to recruit large numbers of new staff to deliver the expansion of its existing network, WorkPath offered an ideal solution.
Using the council’s ability to communicate directly with the local community, in person and online, WorkPath was able to register interest from dozens of local people either looking for work or looking to change careers.
Those who attended the initial familiarisation sessions were given the chance not only to try out some of the physical work involved, but also to meet with Hyperoptic engineers who are already doing the very same job on the ground.
A series of interviews and practical tests followed for those who were interested in pursuing the opportunities available.
Emma Atkins, Talent Acquisition Partner for Hyperoptic, said:
“Our staff had a great time meeting Tower Hamlets’ residents and speaking to them about the opportunities available at Hyperoptic.
“We were impressed by how engaged all the attendees were and we look forward to welcoming some of them to our team.
“Working with WorkPath gives us the opportunity to support the communities we’re part of by connecting local people to exciting employment opportunities.”
John Biggs, Executive Mayor of Tower Hamlets, said:
“Helping our residents to access jobs and training continues to be an absolute priority for the council.
“These engineering roles are at the cutting edge of technology in a sector that is only going to grow. They’re exactly the kind of opportunities we should be encouraging people to pursue.”
Cllr Motin Uz-Zaman, Cabinet Member for Work and Economic Growth, said:
“WorkPath continues to deliver really great results for the residents of the borough.
“By working directly with major employers such as Hyperoptic, we are able to ensure our residents have every chance of being first in line for these exciting new career opportunities.
“I look forward to hearing the success stories as these candidates move on through the application process.”