2nd July 2019
South Devon College wouldn’t be the fantastic place for learning that it is without knowledgeable and committed staff. With the Hi Tech & Digital Centre, it’s the same staff that have been making the Centre as good as it can possibly be for you whilst still doing everything else they would normally do.
To help you get an idea of what this new facility will mean for the College, its students, and the wider community, we’ve spoken to these key staff members to find out more about them, their journey, and what positive changes the Hi Tech & Digital Centre is going to make.
Also, if you’re joining us to study a course that will be based in the Hi Tech & Digital Centre, the series will serve as a small introduction to the staff you will potentially be working with on a regular basis.
The next member of staff we are featuring as part of the ’10 minutes with…’ series is Nirosha Holton. So without any further ado, let’s see what she has to say!
What is your role at South Devon College?
Programme Coordinator- HE and Higher Skills Strategic Development for Digital, Media and Computing Dept.
What is your educational/working background?
Believe it or not, I worked 20+ years in the hospitality industry and corporate management but then pursued a career change. I qualified with a BSc (Hons) Computer and Information Security and PhD (2nd year) in Cyber Security.
What attracted you to work at South Devon College?
As a former student of South Devon College (SDC) studying FdSc Computing, I thought SDC would be the perfect place where I could pioneer the promotion of cyber security amongst the next generation and attract them into the sector to maximise their potential.
What part of your job do you enjoy the most?
Being a tiny part in encouraging and guiding young people with little or no confidence to grow and to believe in themselves and achieve what would have seemed impossible previously.
What is your vision for the future of your sector?
Internet and digital technologies used to make the world a better place and give equal opportunities to everyone.
How do you see digital technologies developing within your sector?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) combined with Internet of Things (IoT) to grow beyond all expectations; particularly in transport, retail, medical, research, and education. Also, owing to this ever-increasing digital dependency both in professional and personal lives, Cyber Security will be critical for individual and national security and be one of the most sought after skills, exceeding the earning potential of jobs that are traditionally considered as ‘well-paid’.
What are you most looking forward to about the Hi Tech & Digital Centre opening in September?
To work in a place where dreams are realised. Be part of a pioneering team to make the South Devon College a digital and cyber security hub for the South West region.
What piece of tech do you find the most useful in day to day life?
My Apple Watch – to access my data and other devices seamlessly and effortlessly.
What is your favourite motivational song?
Eye of The Tiger by Survivor.
What is the best thing about living and/or working in South Devon?
Friendly People who call everyone ‘lovie’ or ‘lovr’ and the opportunities for those who think out of the box and strive for the best.
The Hi Tech & Digital Centre is due to open in September 2019. Look forward to seeing you there!
Funding to create the world-class facility has been secured from a number of partner organisations including; the growth deal through the Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership (HotSW LEP), Higher Education Funding Council for Education (HEFCE), European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), Garfield Weston Foundation.
For more information about the Hi Tech & Digital Centre and what courses will be delivered there, email [email protected] or call 08000 380 123.
