Fastrack Into Information Technology (FIT) is a not-for-profit representative organisation of the technology sector committed to growing Ireland’s tech talent pipeline. Working in close collaboration with National Education and Training Provision, National and Regional Development Agencies and Community Organisations. FIT is celebrating its 25th Anniversary this year and continues with the mission to promote an inclusive and sustainable smart economy ensuring access to in-demand tech skills for quality employment and shared prosperity.
FIT Choose Tech Programme:
In 2020, FIT developed Choose Tech: a free, nationwide program organised by FIT, designed to engage young people aged 15-20 from DEIS Schools and Youthreach into the world of technology. The program aims to open doors to tech career opportunities including Tech Apprenticeships. By providing a structured framework for skill development, Choose Tech supports educators in helping young people kick-start their careers in the tech industry. Information is available at www.fit.ie/resources/choosetech
Choose Tech can be used for:
Practical Achievement Task completion for LCA students
- Integrate as part of the School Completion programme (extra curricula or afterschool clubs)
- CPD for Educators
- Gaisce – President awards
- Mapping Choose Tech modules to curricula and incorporating them into schemes of work (IT, Computing, Science, Maths, PHSE, English, Safeguarding, Biology, Art, Design, Geography)
- Work experience for TY students covering Tech skills and soft skills (online modules)
Other Benefits include:
Free programme
- Students work on the modules independently
- Quick and easy registration process
- Can be easily accessed on laptops, phones, and tablets anywhere.
- Modules are user-friendly for students and teachers.
- Teachers have access to a back office where they can see the progress of their students.
- The team at FIT Choose Tech is available to support and guide teachers.
Since 2020, the Choose Tech programme has been delivered to over 6,000 learners across the country!!!
Other FIT News & Information:
Fastrack into Information Technology (FIT) is excited to announce a series of upcoming tech apprenticeship programmes aimed at fostering talent and providing hands-on experience in the technology sector. These programmes are designed to equip participants with the skills required to excel in various tech fields, while also addressing the growing demand for tech professionals in Ireland.
September: Software Development in Tallaght Training centre.
Three places remain for the September intake of the Software Development apprenticeship in Tallaght. As one of our largest training centres, Tallaght has consistently delivered high-quality training, thanks in part to the excellent management of the programmes by Tallaght training centre assistant manager Anna Farrell. FIT is keen to promote this programme and strengthen our collaboration with local employers. Companies in Dublin, particularly in the Tallaght region, are encouraged to participate by taking on a Tech apprentice.
October: Software Development at Killester College
Starting in October, we will be offering an in-person Software Development programme at Killester College in Dublin. We are seeking employers in the Dublin area to support this programme by providing apprenticeship opportunities for participants. This initiative is crucial for bridging the skills gap and ensuring that local businesses have access to well-trained tech talent.
October: Launch of Revalidated Cybersecurity Tech Apprenticeship
We are thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of our revalidated QQI Cybersecurity Tech apprenticeship in October. This programme will have a national reach, and we aim to engage employers across Ireland. We plan to collaborate with Cyber Ireland and encourage their network and members to maximize the reach and impact of this programme.
November: Cyber Programme with AMTCE
In November, FIT will launch a new Cyber programme in partnership with the Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre of Excellence (AMTCE). This synchronous programme will have a national scope, and we look forward to extensive promotion through in person information open days on 10th September to build on the AMTCE and its tutors success off the back of their newly graduated cohort of May 2024.
The Tech apprenticeship programmes are vital for developing a skilled workforce that can meet the demands of Ireland’s tech industry. We encourage all interested employers to get involved and support these initiatives. For more information, please contact FIT or the respective programme coordinators.
FIT (Fastrack Into Information Technology) Launches Official YouTube Channel:
FIT are delighted to announce that the official FIT Youtube Channel – Fastrack into Information Technology (@FastrackIT) has officially launched! We have posted our first videos, including Interview with Fastrack into Information Technology (FIT) CEO Peter Davitt, “How Companies are coming around to the value of apprenticeships as a way to develop Ireland’s Tech Talent Pipeline”
Hear Peter discuss the value of apprenticeships and the growing desire for greater diversity and inclusion within the Tech sector. In the past, Third-Level Education or University was the always seen as the sole route to a career in Ireland, however, in this interview Peter demonstrates the numerous paths that can be taken to a successful career in Tech.
Also on the FIT Youtube Channel, is the TechCentral.ie interview with Ann Marie Clyne, Vice President and People Business Partner, with Mastercard, who shares her own experience and perspective of the enrichment Apprentices bring to an organisation, from an employer’s perspective.
The FIT Youtube (@FastrackIT) will share insights into the apprenticeship programme, speaking with both employees that have joined and successfully completed our programme recently, as well as employers that have hired some of our dedicated and highly skilled apprentices from one of our many Apprenticeship programmes. As well as programme insights, the FIT Youtube Channel will be sharing useful tips for both employers and employees that are considering an apprenticeship as the next step in their career.
Don’t miss out – follow the FIT Youtube account here – FIT YouTube Channel @FastrackIT – for regular updates! And, don’t forget to share with your friends and family if they are considering a career in Tech.
- Facebook: Fastrack into Information Technology (FIT) – @fastracktoit
- X (Twitter): @fastrackintoit
- Instagram: @fastrackintoit
- Youtube: @FastrackIT
- LinkedIn: Fastrack into Information Technology (FIT) or find the account here
Contact Information
For details on how to get involved with any of these programmes, please reach out to FIT at info@fit.ie or visit our website at www.fit.ie or visit our Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@FastrackIT/videos