Local pupils explored cutting-edge technologies and future careers during London Tech Week in White City.
More than 80 students heard how tech-focused employers from 'H&F's Silicon Valley' – the White City Innovation District – could train and employ them.
The event brought together nine-to-fourteen-year-olds from Fulham Cross Academy, Fulham Cross Girls School, Hammersmith Academy, and Phoenix Academy with innovative businesses including Autolus, ITV, and Medidata.
It's the latest instalment of H&F Council's White City Reveal series, which helps connect local talent with the jobs of the future.
As the area continues to grow as a hub for innovation under the guidance of H&F's Industrial Strategy, the 'Reveals' play a crucial role in inspiring the next generation of tech leaders and ensuring local children are first in line to benefit from the opportunities on their doorstep.
Mariem from Hammersmith Academy was surprised to learn how many options the tech world had to offer: "It was interesting to see how new technologies are being used in different industries."
"Tech is not just about computers and programming," said Miroslava, 14, from Fulham Cross Academy. "You can work in tech-related companies without specialising in computer science."
Made in White City
The event showcased a diverse range of tech innovations being developed in White City.
Hear from our pioneering residents:
Medical software company Medidata demonstrated how their technology played a crucial role in COVID-19 vaccine development. Its software platform streamlines the testing process for drugs, vaccines, and medical devices – a key step in bringing new treatments to market.
"You don't need to be a medical scientist to work at Medidata," said Andrew Bott, Director of Talent Acquisition at Medidata. "Our industry sector offers a whole range of exciting opportunities for local talent to get stuck in."
ITV, based at the Television Centre in Wood Lane, offered insights into the tech behind popular shows like Love Island. "It's not just about producing shows for TV anymore, we're also creating content for platforms like Netflix," said ITV Graduate, Archie Mason.
He added: "There are so many opportunities in media. The thing about tech is, you can never learn it all."
Biotech giant Autolus emerged as the crowd favourite at the Tech Reveal event. A White City resident since 2016, the company develops advanced T-cell therapies for cancer and autoimmune diseases.
"They are trying to help the community," said Miroslava. "Them treating blood cancer in children was really heartwarming." While fellow Fulham Cross pupil Jamiah noted: "We also saw how ethnically diverse the team was, which was really nice."
Quench.ai showcased how the Scale Space veteran helps people harness the power of AI to succeed in their careers.
"As roles and career paths evolve dramatically, organisations need agile and resilient talent to thrive," said Marketing Manager, Himanshi Singh. "We provide an AI coach to help organisations navigate these changes."
Solena Materials impressed students with their innovative approach to eco-friendly fashion by creating a cleaner generation of synthetic fibres.
"Working in biotech is incredibly exciting," Head of Operations, Samira Richardson, addressed the students at the event. "I hope my journey inspires you to explore your interests and skills."
