University welcomes leaders from global technology giant

Students and staff at the University of Wolverhampton were given the chance to network with representatives from one of the world’s leading technology companies recently at a one-day conference.  

The University hosted a knowledge exchange and collaboration event for staff and students to meet with speakers from IBM and i-UG.  

This one-day conference enabled attendees to work, learn and collaborate with leaders at the forefront of advances in computer science, artificial intelligence and data science. Students and staff also discussed how the collaboration could be expanded and strengthened for the future.  

Keynote speakers on the day included Steve Bradshaw, from Rowton IT, Tim Rowe and Scott Forstie, both from IBM Headquarters in Minnesota. Steve is a locally based IBM champion and graduated from the University of Wolverhampton in 1988 studying Applied Computing.   

Highlights of the day included “IBM I – Under the Bonnet” as well as an overview of the range of organisations who utilise IBM hardware and software. 

The event was organised in collaboration with Mike Ryan, IBM Distinguished Engineer, and i-UG, an organisation which has provided free training, industry projects and graduate roles for University of Wolverhampton students for many years.  

Dr. Andrew Gascoyne, Senior Lecturer in Mathematics and Computer Science, said: “This was an incredible opportunity for our students to be at the forefront of the jobs market post-graduation. The support offered to our students by Mike Ryan and the i-UG has been highlighted specifically as excellent innovative practice having recently gained accreditation from The Chartered Institute for IT (BCS).”  

For anyone interested in studying courses at the School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematical Sciences, visit our website or book a place for one of our forthcoming Open Days.  

Image: (front row left to right) Mike Ryan from i-UG, Colin Spoford from i-UG, Tim Rowe from IBM, Scott Forstie from IBM, Steve Bradshaw from Rowton IT and Steve Cast from i-UG. 

Back row: staff and students