The University of Kent submitted their Technician Commitment Self-Assessment and their next 36 month Action Plan and Strategy in January this year. As a result of the hard work and dedication from our technical community, leaders and supporters, we received an Impact Award for all that we have achieved to date. Jo Scamp, Technical Manager (Technician Commitment), represented Kent at the Technician Commitment Signatory event that was held at Riddell Hall, Queens University Belfast (QUB) on the 14th May.
Jo said, “I am proud and honoured to have collected the University of Kent’s Technician Commitment Impact Award. Congratulations to everyone at Kent for your hard work and dedication. You truly make a difference.”
The Technician Commitment Signatory events provide insightful sector wide updates, promote networking, and facilitate collaborative discussions with colleagues from a multitude of institutions about key challenges and opportunities. They are a chance to discuss collective opportunities and share best practices with each other. The day started with the latest Technician Commitment updates presented by Dr Kelly Vere MBE. Key speakers included:
- Professor Alan Stitt, Dean of Innovation & Impact (QUB)
- Duncan Shermer, Head of REF Evaluation and Development
- Professor Hugh McKenna (Ulster University and REF 2029 Research Diversity Advisory Panel Member)
- Sarah Allen, Technical Careers Manager (UK ITSS),
- Nik Ogryzko, Senior Talent Programme Manager (UKRI)
- Gillian Riddell and Dermot Barry (All-Ireland Network)
- Amelia Dingley, The Chartered Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (CASES)
- Natalie Homer, Research Technical Professionals: Recognising Leadership & Expertise (RELAX) in technical specialists
The afternoon was made up of interactive sessions led by Mel Leitch and Clare Stevenson, Technician Commitment Associate Leads, looking at future proofing our universities and technical professionals and regional mapping of signatories and networks. This was followed by an evening drinks and networking reception that was hosted at Isdell Courtyard.
