Brian Wilson recently took advantage of fully-funded training available at Borders College to help him boost his computer skillset. The Data Science course is aimed at helping those looking to forge a new career or simply update their knowledge of technology. Brian talks below about how the new initiative has helped him move forward in his career:
“Originally an apprentice to a light engineering company as a Turner/ Welder producing close tolerance components, I joined HM Forces in my late teens, where I remained for the next 16 odd years, initially in the Parachute Regiment. I retrained for a more technical/demanding role, accounting for and carrying out surveillance and repair of ammunition and explosives.
“Back in the real world, I dabbled in several avenues of work from selling Insurance to being the manager of an Argos store. Over the years I have run/owned businesses and worked on several Government contracts.
“I was initially drawn to the course, as its content, which I always had an interest in, seemed to be just what I required to get back into a formal learning mode and update my computer and communication skills.
“I always had an interest in statistics and trends, more so from the work I carried out in the military and would like to continue on this path, (purely as an interest). My next step will be some form of basic maths course, and recently completing the Data Science course has given me the confidence the boost required for me to continue.
“I enjoyed the online learning part, as you could go at your own speed, unlike a classroom situation where you can sometimes feel pressured to keep up. It also makes you aware, as no tutor is present, you need to apply self-discipline to complete the task at hand.
“The tutor was just an email/phone call away if you ran into problems, either with the course content or something technical, all of which were dealt with in a professional and friendly manner. I had a few of these, and all were speedily rectified.
“I would certainly recommend this course, especially to people like myself who have been out of the learning loop for a considerable time and would like to refresh their lost skills. Also, people with minimal computer knowledge who would like to upgrade their IT skills either out of personal interest or as an initial step in changing/progressing their career path. I am sure they would find it beneficial as the standard of instruction, through demonstration, is excellent.”
If you are unemployed, a woman returning to work or someone facing redundancy, then why not find out more about Data Science training at Borders College by clicking here.