Technology company Coforge has become the latest major employer to support Telford College’s ‘Step Into Digital’ training programme.

The fast-growing business, which has its main UK base at Kendal Court in the town’s Station Quarter, provides AI and digital services to some of the country’s biggest organisations.

The Step Into Digital work programme is aimed at people looking to begin a technology career, and is primarily targeted at people aged 19 and over who are currently unemployed.

The idea came out of Telford College’s Digital Employer Skills Hub, where college staff work with local employers to help meet their skills needs.

Mark Robinson, who manages the Telford Coforge site, hosted a group of eight aspiring analysts and programmers who signed up to the latest college programme.

He said: “The enthusiasm and honesty of the Telford College students was a pleasure to see. It is always inspirational to meet and talk with young people looking to take their first steps on a career in the digital sector.

“The college’s commitment to helping build futures for the people of Telford really impresses us, and we are looking to collaborate in other ways over the coming months, through initiatives such as apprenticeships and T Levels.”

Gemma Parker, employability lecturer and curriculum team leader at Telford College, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Mark and the Coforge team for giving up their time.

“The visit gave our students an incredibly valuable chance to gain first-hand insight into how the business operates and to learn more about careers within the IT sector.

“The visit was highly beneficial, demonstrating the diverse career pathways available in IT and allowing the students to better understand the wide range of opportunities within the industry.

“Our Step Into Digital programme is perfect for people looking to take their first steps into the digital sector, who want to learn more about software applications in the workplace.”