Essex University leads £3m project to upskill technicians

A scheme aimed at upskilling technicians is being led by the University of Essex

A £3m project aimed at improving the skills of university technicians is to begin next month.

Called Technical Platform for Innovation and Knowledge Exchange (T-PIKE), the scheme is led by the University of Essex.

Those taking part will get new skills from both the public and private sector.

The university said it hoped the project would support ensure the "sustainability of the profession".

'Huge impact'

Prof Edward Codling, from the university's school of mathematics, said: "Technicians play an essential role in research across all disciplines.

"T-PIKE will address this gap, enabling their own professional development and making sure their unique skills and experience are shared widely."

The project, which begins in April, will initially run for four years.

Facilities management firm Cloud FM Essex, County Council and BT have agreed to support the programme as partners.

Chris Spice, technical manager in Essex's School of Sport, Rehabilitation, and Exercise Sciences, said the project is set to have a huge impact on the "recognition and sustainability of technical roles".