The University of Westminster has become a signatory of the Technician Commitment, a global initiative aimed at providing support and recognition for technical colleagues in higher education and research. The close relationships between technical and academic teams are key to student experience and success.
The Technician Commitment invites universities to pledge action to promote the importance of technical roles within their institution and address challenges faced by those working as technicians. Hosted by the UK Institute for Technical Skills and Strategy, the Commitment aims to ensure visibility, recognition, career development and sustainability for technical professionals.
Technical colleagues are a vital part of the Westminster community, with over 100 technicians working across the University. This not only includes delivering support and training across Life Sciences and Health disciplines, including gene editing and health setting simulation, but also within the Westminster Business School, where technical teams cover enhanced digital learning platforms alongside hands-on making skills to enhance critical thinking. Technicians also support students in the Schools of Art, Architecture + Cities and Media and Communication, where the technical teams are pivotal in ensuring colleagues and students build the skills and knowledge to develop their projects to the highest quality.
Professor Catherine Dormor, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Advanced Digital Technologies at the University of Westminster, said: “Becoming a signatory to the Technician Commitment builds on our Being Westminster strategic plan which commits to being a community of people who stand out as significant contributors to their communities – through their innovation, enterprise and problem-solving – seeking to make the world a more sustainable, healthier and better place.
“Our technicians are fundamental in the delivery of transformative teaching, world-class research and knowledge exchange. The Commitment supports us in highlighting and championing our technical community and their roles within the University, providing the support, recognition and development opportunities that they deserve.”
Kim Storey, Lead Technician at the University’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, added: “Technicians are essential to the University of Westminster, providing expert support for hands-on learning, contributing to innovative research and maintaining state-of-the-art facilities where students develop valuable workplace skills. By signing this commitment, we can ensure the team heroes receive the recognition they deserve for their contributions and are supported in their ongoing career development.”
The University’s pledge to the Technician Commitment directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions and 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Find out more about the University of Westminster’s vision, mission and values.
Learn more about the Technician Commitment.
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