Dywedwch ychydig wrthym amdanoch chi'ch hun a'ch gwaith.

My name is Robert, and I am a fully qualified, time-served Automation Technician with a background in the steel manufacturing industry. Following this, I became an experienced Shift Craft Electrician, before moving into Automation and Control equipment within Systems and PCA (Process Control & Automation). I began working with OT/IT equipment using legacy devices such as GEC 4220 and Dec Alpha computers, alongside networking Microsoft Windows computers. I now have extensive experience working with a range of automation computer systems as a Systems Engineer, including Scada HMI systems, Data Historians, and PLC Data communications.

How did you hear about and engage with the Degree apprenticeship programme delivered by the Institute of Coding/Swansea University (Technocamps)?

I contacted our learning and development team to enquire about software programming courses, and they suggested a funded degree in Applied Computer Science at Swansea University.

How did you first get involved with computers, and what inspired you to take this path?

I have been interested in computers from an early age, when my dad would bring home a Commodore PET for us to play with. I used to spend hours on a Saturday programming games. I grew up with mainstream home computers, starting with a Sinclair ZX81 and a Commodore 64, before being introduced to Intel PC’s in the steelworks.

How has completing the Degree Apprenticeship programme influenced your personal development, job role, and career ambitions?

Participating in and completing the Degree Apprenticeship was a great achievement for me, as I at times struggled with studying and keeping my attention. Since completing the Degree Apprenticeship, I have not stopped learning and have attended Technocamps for a number of micro-credentials and short courses to continue my learning.

Sut ydych chi'n meddwl y byddwch chi'n defnyddio'r sgiliau a'r wybodaeth rydych chi wedi'u hennill yn y dyfodol?

I am progressing through more qualifications and certifications relating to cybersecurity. I am hoping to lead to a career move, having chosen Pen testing as an optional module in the last year of the Degree Apprenticeship, which I found very insightful and fun.

Can you share a specific moment or project that stands out as particularly meaningful during your time with the Institute of Coding/Swansea University (Technocamps)?

It was great meeting like-minded individuals for discussion and bouncing ideas off each other. One moment that stands out was when we had a small group project to do, and presentation skills were graded. It was funny seeing the lecturer click the watch to indicate our 15 minutes of fame were almost over.

Pa gyngor fyddech chi'n ei roi i rywun sy'n ystyried dilyn gyrfa mewn cyfrifiadureg neu faes cysylltiedig?

I would highly recommend the course. It was a great learning experience to learn proper coding methods and syntax. The career market for computer science graduates is vastly increasing, from being a front-end developer, back-end database admin or one of the many new fields of work in cyber security. I would also recommend the campus and facilities at Swansea University, as well as the surrounding coastline on the Gower Peninsula.