Our appointment as an Industry Sponsor of TechFirst marks an important recognition of Connect Talent CIO’s commitment to grassroots digital inclusion. The UK's tech sector is full of untapped potential. Through this collaboration with the TechFirst community, we are expanding our capacity to mentor aspiring talent, provide hands-on experience, and open tangible career doors for those who need them most.
At Connect Talent CIO, our mission has always been grounded in breaking down barriers to opportunity and empowering individuals across Greater Manchester and the UK with high-demand digital and tech skills.
Today, we are thrilled to announce an exciting new milestone in this journey: Connect Talent CIO has joined TechFirst as an official Industry Sponsor.
What is TechFirst?
By bringing together government, leading digital charities, and forward-thinking industry organisations, TechFirst provides real-world training, hands-on industry experience, and targeted mentorship to build a diverse, future-ready digital workforce.
What This Means for Connect Talent CIO and Our Learners
- Expanding Tech Pathways: We will align our vocational and digital training cohorts with core tech competencies needed by UK employers, ensuring our participants are equipped for long-term career growth.
- Undergraduate & Graduate Experience: Through our partnerships with leading regional universities (including the University of Manchester and University of Salford), we will continue providing undergraduates and career-switchers with live project placements and volunteer opportunities.
- Fostering Digital Inclusion: We remain fiercely committed to championing underrepresented talent in tech—including women, career returners, and individuals from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
A Word from Our Leadership
“Our appointment as an Industry Sponsor of TechFirst marks an important recognition of Connect Talent CIO’s commitment to grassroots digital inclusion. The UK's tech sector is full of untapped potential. Through this collaboration with the TechFirst community, we are expanding our capacity to mentor aspiring talent, provide hands-on experience, and open tangible career doors for those who need them most.”
— Dr Oladimeji Ojerinola, CEO, Connect Talent CIO
Get Involved: Shape the Future of UK Tech
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Discover our upcoming digital skills bootcamps, mentoring programmes, and community tech workshops across Greater Manchester and the UK.
Official TechFirst Marks & Visual Assets
TechFirst is a registered trade mark of the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport / UK Government, used under licence by Connect Talent CIO.
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Together, we make Salford Stronger!
Ready to build your confidence with our free Essential Digital Skills training or looking to get involved as a volunteer? Reach out to Connect Talent CIO online or stop by our community hub at Pendleton Gateway today.