Case studies : ICT intern: Matt

Matt is an ICT intern for the Fire Service. He has a BA in Computing in Business.

I found out about this opportunity via my school department. I applied by online application form, which was competency based. I then had a face-to-face panel interview and was offered the position. My role involves populating the service's new SharePoint site, which is a little like the Blackboard Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) used in many educational establishments. I have to transfer staff information onto the SharePoint site to create a new standardised system.

Previously all the departments each had their own system for storing data so the aim of SharePoint was to simplify the way information is stored in the Fire Service and make it more accessible to everyone using it. My role also involves running one-to-one training sessions where I teach staff how to use the SharePoint site. Another important feature of my role also entails cleaning out out-of-date Fire Service documentation, some of which is 25 years old! This then has to be incorporated onto the new SharePoint site. I have received substantial training from the Fire Service - in how to use SharePoint and also in-house training on a range of topics including equal opportunities, diversity and management skills. I think I will probably have the opportunity to go on more directly related IT training courses in the future.

Although I don’t feel that I am using any particular technical skills gained from my degree I do feel my degree has given me confidence in using computers and in knowing how to use a range of software packages and the ability to transfer these skills to in-house IT systems. I feel I was successful in gaining this position because of my previous voluntary experience, where I worked for the Air Ambulance Corps and on a local children’s camp. I also feel my involvement with the Duke of Edinburgh award was another positive experience which attracted the company to me.

My experiences also helped me to evidence the range of competencies required at the application and interview stage. These experiences also helped me to stand out from other applicants who perhaps did not have as much work and voluntary experiences or interests. My long-term career goal is to work for another public sector employer in a similar role. I am particularly interested in joining the RAF and feel this experience will be very valuable for me in the future.