Hamilton launches Data Analytics Academy

The programme aims to provide graduates with the distinct skills and experience required to take up new opportunities in PwC and arc-net’s rapidly growing Data Analytics teams.

“This Academy is an excellent example of two companies working collaboratively with both the Department for the Economy and Belfast Metropolitan College to enhance the skills of unemployed graduates,” said Mr Hamilton.

“As Economy Minister, one of my key priorities is to ensure that our graduates are equipped with the key skills that employers need, helping people to succeed in the employment market and contributing to the competitiveness of our economy.”

The Academy has been designed by the Department for the Economy, PwC, arc-net and Belfast Metropolitan College under the Assured Skills Collaborative programme. Targeting degree graduates, the academy will offer an intensive eight week training programme to 18 successful applicants.

On successful completion of the training, graduates will be offered job opportunities in the data analytics teams in PwC or arc-net.

“The field of data analytics is one which is growing globally and becoming increasingly important for companies today,” Mr Hamilton added.

“Northern Ireland possesses the high quality graduates and post-graduates much sought after by market-leading indigenous companies and large-scale professional services Centres of Excellence. I would encourage any unemployed graduate to consider a career in this vibrant and growing technology sector.”

Paul Terrington, regional chairman of PwC in Northern Ireland said the programme was a “vital element in upskilling our graduate population to support Northern Ireland’s growing reputation as a preferred location for technology investment”.

“Across PwC, data analytics are at the heart of what we do; from traditional audit and tax to our new technology offerings like Fin tech and Blockchain, we need more skilled people to provide our clients with the solutions they seek.

Arc-net CEO Kieran Kelly said the academy was an important tool to support the growth plans of both a global network leader like PwC and a local fast growing innovator with global aspirations like arc-net.

“Arc-net is using Blockchain and Data Analytics to transform industries like Healthcare and Food Production in a similar way that Uber, Amazon and Airbnb have used data to transform their chosen markets.”