Backing for technology ‘pipeline’ in Tairāwhiti

Need to employ: Phil Kupenga says, “We need more employers to give opportunities and encourage talents to work in the region rather than go elsewhere.” Picture by Liam Clayton

Locals interested in exploring a career in software engineering and technology can now apply for digital technology internships in Tairāwhiti.
In partnership with impact house Tāiki e!, the digital technology team at Arup — a billion-dollar British design company — will be offering two one-year paid internships (working remotely) in Gisborne.
The internship is a way to gain valuable experience and be part of a team dedicated to making a positive impact through digital technology.
Tāiki e! trustee and founder of tech company Next Chapter Phil Kupenga said candidates would require a relevant IT qualification and digital literacy as a minimum to apply for the two positions.
Once into the role, successful candidates would be able to access the latest tools and technology to grow their professional skills, expand horizons and potentially develop a career in a firm dedicated to sustainable development and shaping a better world.
“It’s a great opportunity for Tairāwhiti as these internships are exclusive to the region,” Mr Kupenga said.
“This partnership is important for us because once we have this rolling, we might have more come on board and invest in the talents here.”
Mr Kupenga said there was a lack of tech jobs in Tairāwhiti at the moment.
“Talents get offers from places such as Wellington or Auckland but why can’t we have them work here?
“We know that this will take time for our community to know they can enter and thrive in tech, but we have to start somewhere,” he said.
“My ask from the tech community is if you believe in this kaupapa and want to help, we need help in developing our tech capability.”
Another challenge was the issue of experience, Mr Kupenga said.
Tairāwhiti had graduates who needed experience in becoming solid developers. 
“You may often hear companies emphasising to newcomers in the industry the importance of joining their organisation with some experience. But those candidates need to start somewhere.
“This is where a company like Arup comes in to offer those opportunities.” 
To ensure a strong supply of tech workforce, it was crucial to build a “technological pipeline”.
“What it means is that we need more and more people to get trained in the tech sector and make it competitive. 
“For instance, using a cricket analogy, the top cricket team is only a handful selection of finely tuned players from thousands of players playing in the grassroots and regional levels. We need a similar approach in tech as well.”
Mr Kupenga said the coming of Covid-19 and the recent communication disruptions during Cyclone Gabrielle highlighted the relevance of the tech sector and the need to ramp up for improved efficiency.
The year-long internship would be a way for whānau in Tairāwhiti to make a start and then build on that.