Each workshop in Technicians: The David Sainsbury Gallery gives students the chance to meet a real technician and experience what it’s like to do their job through hands-on activities and a Q&A session.
To mark the one millionth visitor milestone, we caught up with two other technicians who deliver our Meet an Employee workshops to find out more about what they do and their journey to becoming a technician.
Nusayba Abaas who is 22, joined HS2’s construction partner, Balfour Beatty VINCI SYSTRA (BBVS), as a civil engineering apprentice in 2021. She’s part of the engineering team building HS2’s new super-hub station at Old Oak Common in West London, the largest new station to be built in Europe.
Nusayba said: ‘I did my GCSEs and went on to do Chemistry, Physics and Maths at A Level. During my sixth form I also did my work experience with an engineering consultancy. I then tried a Physics degree for a year, but as it was a Covid year, I didn’t enjoy it as much as I thought. I knew about degree apprenticeships from my teachers and that they were a good alternative route to go down, so I found this apprenticeship and successfully applied. It was a big decision to change pathways, but now I feel it was the best decision for me – plus it taught me that its ok to change your mind to find what works for you!’
‘As a Civil Engineering apprentice, my role rotates every six months which is great because it gives me variety and different experiences in different places. Currently I’m in the Quality Management team, but I have also worked in the Construction, Design Management and Planning teams. Getting to see different industry functions and how they interact gives me a wide view of what Civil Engineering really involves. We’re also given freedom to be innovative and allowed to experiment within our assigned tasks which isn’t something that people thinking about this career might expect we are allowed to do.’
‘The impact of a civil engineering technician is hidden behind the scenes, but everything around us is built by us in some way or another – from stations and hospitals, to homes even museums – everything we use day-to-day is impacted by the work of civil engineers. It’s rewarding to know that the projects we technicians work on positively impact people’s lives, even without them knowing it.’
Munir Saleh, who is 24, joined Imperial College London’s technician apprenticeship scheme in 2020. After completing the course, he joined the university as an Electronics Research Workshop Technician in the Department of Physics and now focuses on complex Printed Circuit Board (PCB) designs that are headed for CERN, the largest physics experiment in the world.
Munir said: ‘At secondary school, my favourite subjects were graphic design, design and technology and maths. Also as a kid I was always taking things apart and building things so knowing I was a hands-on practical learner, I decided to do a BTEC in General Engineering. After this I didn’t know what type of engineering I wanted to do, there are so many types of engineering out there, from mechanical to software or electrical! I found the Imperial Mechatronics Apprenticeship Scheme which gave me experience in all these fields and after I graduated, I decided to specialise as a Research Electronics Engineering Technician.’
‘My main day to day activity is problem solving in the lab. I work with professors and researchers on specific and unique projects to help give them solutions, including designing and building circuit boards (what makes electronics work) with a variety of sensors. So e.g., if they need to grab data, sense the change in atoms in an environment – we’re there to support, provide, build, and maintain these devices, and maintain our laboratory making sure everything is working correctly. It’s a creative team working space.’
The best part of my job is being an enabler – creating something from an idea that helps to push a project forward and ultimately get results. Its also great to be working on so many projects and watch their progression over time. I also get to travel for work, so recently I went to Switzerland to the CERN Hyper-K Neutrino Program which is looking to understand this fundamental building block of our universe. To know that some of my PCB designs are involved in that significant project is just amazing.’
Technicians: The David Sainsbury Gallery is a free interactive gallery which champions the vital but unseen role of technicians and seeks to change perceptions of technical careers.
Young people can go behind the scenes and explore the roles of technicians working in advanced manufacturing, creative industries, health science and renewable energy to explore where technicians work, hear their inspirational stories, and experience daily life as a technician.
If your class wants to explore different technician roles and discover more about the varied routes into these important careers you can book a free Meet an Employee workshop here.
In recent years, technological advancements have dramatically reshaped various industries, and the future looks to be even more transformative. This article will analyze the key trends in the tech industry and offer unique predictions and recommendations for the future.
1. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI has become ubiquitous in our daily lives, from virtual personal assistants to recommendation algorithms. The future of AI holds significant potential, with the following trends emerging:
Expanded Automation: AI will continue to automate repetitive tasks, replacing human labor in sectors like manufacturing, transportation, and customer service.
Machine Learning Advances: Improvements in machine learning algorithms will enhance AI’s ability to understand, learn, and adapt, pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
Ethics and Regulation: As AI becomes more pervasive, ethical considerations and regulations will play a vital role in shaping its development and deployment.
Prediction: AI will revolutionize the job market, with some roles being completely automated. To stay relevant, individuals will need to upskill and focus on jobs that require critical thinking and creativity.
2. Internet of Things (IoT)
The IoT connects various devices and objects to the internet, enabling data exchange and automation. The future of IoT looks promising, with the following trends expected:
Smart Homes and Cities: IoT will continue to improve our living spaces, making them more energy-efficient, secure, and convenient. Smart cities will optimize resource allocation and enhance urban living.
Industrial IoT (IIoT): IIoT will drive efficiency and productivity in industries by connecting machines, sensors, and systems, leading to predictive maintenance and streamlined operations.
Data Security and Privacy: As IoT devices collect vast amounts of personal data, robust security measures and regulations will be crucial to protect privacy and prevent cyber-attacks.
Prediction: IoT will become an integral part of our lives, transforming how we interact with our surroundings. However, the industry must prioritize cybersecurity to avoid privacy breaches and potential disruptions.
3. Big Data and Analytics
The increasing digitization of businesses and the proliferation of data have given rise to big data and analytics, offering valuable insights. Future trends in this field include:
Advanced Analytics: With the help of AI and machine learning, advanced analytics will uncover hidden patterns and correlations in big data, enabling more precise predictions and decision-making.
Data Privacy and Ethics: As organizations collect and analyze vast amounts of data, strategies to ensure privacy, ethics, and compliance will become increasingly important.
Real-time Analytics: Real-time analytics will gain prominence, allowing businesses to make data-driven decisions instantaneously and respond swiftly to market changes.
Prediction: Big data analytics will become the backbone of business strategy across industries, leading to more informed decision-making and enhanced customer experiences. However, organizations must establish transparent data practices to build trust with consumers.
Conclusion
The tech industry is poised for remarkable transformations in the coming years. AI, IoT, and big data analytics will continue to shape our lives and revolutionize businesses.
Your unique predictions and recommendations will depend on your expertise and desired focus within the tech industry.
As the landscape evolves, individuals should invest in developing skills that complement AI, while businesses should prioritize cybersecurity, data privacy, and ethical considerations. Embracing these trends and aligning strategies with emerging technologies will ensure a competitive edge in the future.
Future Trends in the Academic Job Market: Embracing Technology for Success
The academic job market has always been a competitive landscape, often fraught with uncertainty and limited opportunities. However, with the advent of technology and the digital age, significant changes are underway, reshaping the way graduate students in management navigate their career paths. In this article, we will analyze the potential future trends related to this theme and provide unique predictions and recommendations for the industry.
The Power of Shared Spreadsheets in Job Hunting
A notable trend that has gained popularity in recent years is the use of shared spreadsheets to streamline the academic job search process. These spreadsheets are often passed from one generation of graduate students to another, serving as valuable resources that compile essential information on job postings, application deadlines, and contact details of potential employers.
However, as technology continues to evolve, we can expect these shared spreadsheets to undergo significant transformations. Rather than relying on manual updates and limited access, future shared spreadsheets are likely to be centralized on cloud-based platforms. This would allow real-time updates, collaborative editing, and a more inclusive approach, ensuring that the information is readily available to all students, thereby leveling the playing field.
The Rise of Artificial Intelligence in Job Matching
Another emerging trend that holds great promise for the academic job market is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in job matching processes. As AI algorithms become more sophisticated, they can analyze vast amounts of data, taking into account individual profiles, academic achievements, research interests, and institutional preferences.
In the future, AI-powered job matching platforms could revolutionize the recruitment process. These platforms could effectively match graduate students with suitable job opportunities based on their unique skills and qualifications, increasing the chances of success and optimizing time and effort. Additionally, AI algorithms can provide personalized recommendations for career development, such as suggesting relevant conferences or networking events based on individual preferences and goals.
The Influence of Social Media and Online Networking
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, social media and online networking platforms have become indispensable tools for job seekers. In the academic field, platforms like LinkedIn, ResearchGate, and Academia.edu have gained significant traction, allowing researchers to showcase their work, connect with peers, and explore potential job opportunities.
In the future, we can expect these platforms to become even more integrated into the academic job market. Hiring committees may increasingly rely on social media profiles to assess candidates’ professional networks, collaborations, and impact in their respective fields. It will be crucial for graduate students to actively cultivate their online presence, engaging in targeted networking and utilizing these platforms strategically to enhance their visibility and credibility.
Recommendations for Success in the Evolving Academic Job Market
Embrace Technology: To thrive in the future academic job market, graduate students must embrace technology and stay updated with the latest trends. Familiarize yourself with cloud-based platforms, AI-powered job matching tools, and social media networking strategies to gain a competitive edge.
Cultivate a Strong Online Presence: Take the initiative to build a professional online presence on platforms like LinkedIn and ResearchGate. Showcase your research, engage in discussions, and actively connect with peers and potential employers. Remember, your online presence can significantly impact your career prospects.
Collaborate and Share Knowledge: Recognize the power of collaboration and sharing information. Participate in shared spreadsheets or similar platforms to benefit from collective wisdom and stay informed about relevant job opportunities and deadlines. Additionally, contribute to the community by sharing your own experiences and insights.
Adapt and Evolve: The academic job market is dynamic and continuously evolving. Be prepared to adapt to changing trends and adopt new strategies as technology advances. Stay open to interdisciplinary opportunities and explore unconventional career paths that align with your skills and interests.
In conclusion, the academic job market is undergoing profound transformations driven by technology and digital innovation. Shared spreadsheets, AI-powered job matching, and online networking are key trends that will shape the future landscape. By embracing these trends and following the provided recommendations, graduate students can position themselves for success and navigate the challenging academic job market with confidence.
References:
1. Nature, Published online: 28 March 2024; doi:10.1038/d41586-024-00950-8
– The British Museum has appointed Nicholas Cullinan as its new director.
– Cullinan has been the director of London’s National Portrait Gallery since 2015.
– Cullinan oversaw a three-year, million redevelopment of the National Portrait Gallery.
– Cullinan’s 2014 exhibit on Henri Matisse’s cut-outs at Tate Modern broke attendance records.
– The National Portrait Gallery has been criticized for its sponsorship agreement with a law firm linked to fossil fuels.
– The museum ended its controversial partnership with the oil giant BP in 2022.
– The National Portrait Gallery acquired Joshua Reynolds’s “Portrait of Omai” in a £50 million deal with the Getty Museum.
– The British Museum is facing challenges related to missing items, security, and calls for repatriation.
– The museum filed a lawsuit against former curator Peter Higgs, accusing him of stealing items from its collection.
– Cullinan’s appointment was approved by the Board of Trustees and the Prime Minister.
Potential Future Trends and Predictions
The appointment of Nicholas Cullinan as the new director of the British Museum brings hope for a positive future for the institution. With his experience in leading the National Portrait Gallery and his successful redevelopment of the museum, Cullinan is expected to bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the British Museum.
One potential future trend is a focus on increasing public engagement and accessibility. Cullinan’s previous experience in expanding the public spaces of the National Portrait Gallery indicates his commitment to making museums more inclusive and welcoming to a wider audience. This could involve the development of interactive exhibits, digital initiatives, and educational programs that cater to diverse groups of visitors.
Another potential trend is a stronger emphasis on ethical sponsorship and partnerships. The National Portrait Gallery’s controversial sponsorship agreement with a law firm linked to fossil fuels drew criticism from climate activists. Cullinan’s appointment may lead to a reassessment of the British Museum’s existing partnerships and the implementation of more sustainable and socially responsible sponsorship practices.
In terms of acquisitions and collections, the British Museum may continue to prioritize acquiring significant artworks and historical artifacts. The acquisition of Joshua Reynolds’s “Portrait of Omai” through a partnership with the Getty Museum demonstrates the museum’s commitment to expanding its collection. This trend may continue with the acquisition of other notable artworks and cultural artifacts that contribute to the museum’s reputation and historical significance.
The ongoing challenges related to missing items, security, and calls for repatriation are likely to remain key concerns for the British Museum. It will be essential for Cullinan to address these issues transparently and actively work towards resolving them. This may involve implementing stricter inventory and security measures to prevent theft or damage to the museum’s collection. Additionally, Cullinan may engage in meaningful discussions and collaborations with stakeholders of cultural heritage to navigate the sensitive topic of repatriation.
Recommendations for the Industry
To meet the evolving needs and expectations of visitors, museums like the British Museum should prioritize digital innovation and engagement. This can be achieved by investing in interactive technologies, virtual reality experiences, and online educational resources. By embracing digital platforms, museums can reach wider audiences and provide accessible and immersive experiences for those unable to visit in person.
Museums should also prioritize sustainability and ethical practices in their operations and partnerships. By seeking out sponsors and partners that align with their values and goals, museums can ensure that their activities contribute positively to society and the environment. This may involve conducting thorough due diligence on potential sponsors and evaluating their impact on climate change, social justice, and cultural heritage preservation.
Furthermore, museums should actively engage with communities and stakeholders to foster meaningful dialogue around contentious issues such as repatriation. By inviting diverse perspectives and engaging in inclusive and transparent discussions, museums can work towards finding mutually acceptable resolutions. This may involve organizing forums, conferences, or public consultations that allow for constructive conversations about the future of cultural heritage.
In conclusion, the appointment of Nicholas Cullinan as the new director of the British Museum presents an opportunity for the institution to overcome its challenges and embark on a transformative journey. By focusing on public engagement, ethical practices, and addressing the concerns surrounding missing items and repatriation, the museum can establish itself as a leading institution in the cultural heritage sector. By embracing digital innovation and actively collaborating with stakeholders, the British Museum can create a more inclusive and accessible future for all.
References:
1. “British Museum appoints Nicholas Cullinan as director amid tough times.” The Guardian, May 25, 2023.
2. “British Museum announces landmark acquisition of Joshua Reynolds’s “Portrait of Omai (Mai).” The Art Newspaper, April 1, 2023.
3. “British Museum files high court lawsuit against former curator Peter Higgs.” The Guardian, February 14, 2023.
This week the Science Museum opened a stunning new gallery exploring what is probably the most important question of our age: how can the world limit dangerous climate change by transitioning away from fossil fuels in meeting global energy needs?
Fossil fuels still meet around 80% of the world’s energy needs. That is why the rapid but carefully managed shift to a low-carbon economy based largely on renewable energy can fairly be described as an Energy Revolution. It’s how our curators describe it in the title of the new gallery.
Engaging the public in discussion about the quickest, fairest and most effective way for the world to achieve this transition is a top priority for the five museums that make up the Science Museum Group. It’s exemplified in this new gallery but informs many other aspects of our work. That includes blog posts, exhibitions and our excellent series of Climate Talks discussions which you can find online.
Visitors in Energy Revolution The Adani Green Energy Gallery at the Science Museum.
There are some remarkable objects in Energy Revolution: The Adani Green Energy Gallery selected by our curators – alongside a suite of digital exhibits – to help visitors examine how the past, present and future of energy systems are shaped by human imagination and innovation. We all have a role to play in shaping our low-carbon energy future. We hope that the new gallery will make everyone who visits think about the complex issues it raises and perhaps even inspire them to do their bit.
Given the rapid development of electric vehicles in recent years, I have been particularly taken with the story behind one of the older items in the gallery, the Bersey Electric Cab. It first took to the streets of London in 1897 but disappeared from the roads just two years later. It’s hard not to wonder what the world might look like had this technology taken off a hundred years earlier than it did.
Bersey Electric Taxi Cab
While around half of the stories come from the UK, the gallery is global in scope. As we think about a fair energy transition, we need to reflect on the reality that the impacts of climate change are felt unevenly around the globe, and that energy consumption is also very uneven. Much of the biggest growth in consumption is in developing countries where hundreds of millions of people have only gained access to electricity for the first time in the past decade.
The gallery’s curators have done a superb job, drawing on our vast collection of objects, on extensive research and on the advice of a panel of expert, independent advisors. Given that some people have raised concerns about the gallery’s sponsor, the major Indian renewable energy company Adani Green Energy, I should make it clear that the gallery was created without any interference from the sponsor whatsoever. What they did provide was a significant sum of money that allowed us to build the new gallery despite the financial constraints we are working under. For that we are extremely grateful. They have enabled us to present this gallery to the public.
According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), India is ‘poised to see the largest energy demand growth of any country in the world over the next three decades, as industrialisation and urbanisation surge and per capita income rises sharply’. So the rapid growth of India’s renewables sector is vital, particularly given that coal currently supplies much of the country’s electricity. That is the problem Adani Green Energy has set out to tackle. That is why we are keen to work with them.
The Hydrogen, Wind and Tidal Energy exhibit in Energy Revolution: The Adani Green Energy Gallery
I should also point out that in other cases the Science Museum Group has accepted sponsorship from some companies such as BP and Equinor that are directly involved in fossil fuel extraction. Clearly large energy companies have been part of creating the problem of climate change, so they MUST help in finding solutions. They have the resources to make the transition happen. We believe that it is right to engage with these companies if they demonstrate commitment to the development of renewable energy at scale and have plans that align with the Paris goals to limit global warming to around 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels by 2050.
We use a tool called the Transition Pathway Initiative (TPI) to assess the progress of our sponsoring partners. Using publicly disclosed data, TPI assesses the progress companies are making on the transition to a low-carbon economy, supporting efforts to mitigate climate change. The TPI tool is easily accessible and this level of transparency was one of the reasons we choose to use benchmarks from it to guide our decisions on who to work with. We also use it to encourage partners in carbon intensive industries to go further and faster in the energy transition. If an organisation fails to meet its commitments under TPI we will engage with it and encourage it do better. If that engagement proves unsuccessful, we would at an appropriate moment disengage from them.
We hope that the public will visit and enjoy the new gallery and make up their own minds on the issues which it explores. It gives a thorough picture of how humankind has produced energy in the past and present; and it analyses the options for producing energy in the future. We are in the middle of a revolution in energy production. This gallery will help people make sense of it and will inspire them to be part of it.
