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Empowering young people for the tech careers of tomorrow
The technology industry is moving faster than ever, and making sure young people have access to the right skills is crucial for building a future-ready workforce. But traditional career pathways can create barriers, making it tough for those without formal qualifications or experience to break into the tech sector.
At Sopra Steria we’ve offered a programme called the Digital Academy (formerly the Accelerated Digital Careers Academy - ADCA) over a number of years. It’s designed to remove barriers and provide aspiring tech professionals with the training and skills needed to succeed in digital careers. By providing structured training in in-demand technologies, the programme is helping to create a more diverse and inclusive digital workforce.
A number of our own team members started their careers inr programmes such as the Digital Academy including Tobe Nwosu, now a Junior ServiceNow Developer and Jenny Gjasta who began as a Project Support/ Project Manager and later transitioned into marketing.
Key skills for the future workforce
With technology constantly evolving, young professionals need a mix of technical knowledge and soft skills.
Based on insights from former Digital Academy participants here are four skills that make a real difference.
1. Proactivity
Success in a digital career isn’t just about technical knowledge- it's also about taking initiative. Being proactive means spotting opportunities, solving problems before they arise, and taking ownership of tasks without waiting to be asked. In fast-paced environments, this mindset is invaluable.
Jenny highlights that proactivity can start with small actions, “A potential idea could be listening in on a meeting and taking actions, then it’s a matter of questioning which of the actions you could tackle.”
By paying attention to discussions, anticipating needs, and volunteering on tasks, young professionals can build confidence and show their value.
2. Problem-solving
Being able to analyse complex problems and break them down into solutions is a key skill in tech, The Academy has supported problem-solving by encouraging participants to take ownership of challenges.
Tobe explains why this matters "People need to be comfortable analysing problems and making decisions. Encouraging idea-sharing and providing guidance when needed helps build critical thinking skills."
3. Communication
Good communication is essential- whether it’s working in a team, presenting ideas, or explaining technical solutions in a clear way.
Tobe emphasises the importance of interpersonal skills and how companies can help younger people develop them through ensuring that they take part in presentations to showcase the projects they’ve been working on, and what they’ve achieved.
He explains, "Those entering the workforce should have strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work well in a diverse team. Presenting projects and receiving constructive feedback helps build confidence and public speaking skills."
4. Teamwork
No one works in isolation in tech. Collaboration, conflict resolution, and openness to different perspectives are key to working effectively in a team. Tobe shares his experience: "Team-building activities and networking events help people feel more comfortable with colleagues, making it easier to seek support and share ideas."
The Digital Academy creates an environment that fosters teamwork and transparency, helping people work effectively with others.
Opening doors to a career in tech
For many, moving into a digital career can feel ovewhelming, especially for those coming from a non-technical background.
We asked both Tobe and Jenny what they wish they’d known when they were preparing for their current careers.
Jenny said: “It’s okay to get things wrong! There's this huge pressure we put on ourselves to ensure we are perfect all the time and it prevents us from trying out something new, but trial and error is the only way to perfect your craft. Take a chance and do something different and if you get it wrong, then perfect! You now have a starting point to work with.”
And Tobe said: "Doors are always open for anyone willing to put in the work, and experience means a lot more than qualifications in your careers. And that it turns out no matter what your background is, you can always switch careers if you put your mind to it.”
Coming from an environmental background, he initially thought a career in tech wasn’t possible for him. But by investing time in learning and improving his skills, he made the switch.
This message is at the heart of the Digital Academy—helping those who may not have considered a career in tech gain the skills and confidence to succeed.
Building a future-ready workforce
With technology advancing rapidly, continuous learning and skill development are more important than ever. Programmes like the Digital Academy don’t just prepare people for today’s jobs- it instills the mindset needed to adapt and grow in the future.
By breaking down barriers, empowering young professionals, and fostering key essential workplace skills, these programmes are key in shaping the next generation of talent.
techUK’s TechTogether campaign, taking place throughout March, is a collection of activities highlighting the UK’s technology sector pursuit to shape a more equitable future. In 2025 we are exploring: Inclusive AI, investing in diverse founders and entrepreneurs, the power of allyship and mentorship, and empowering young people.
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Sopra Steria
Sopra Steria, a European leader in consulting, digital services and software development, helps its clients drive their digital transformation to obtain tangible and sustainable benefits. The company’s trailblazing Digital Ethics practice is shaping the standards and driving the innovation behind the responsible technology movement. With 46,000 employees in 30 countries, the Group places people at the heart of everything it does to build a positive future. To find out more, please visit https://www.soprasteria.co.uk/capabilities/digital/digital-ethics