Apprentice lead welcomes the positive learning experience of a Degree Apprenticeship

DXC Technology has filled a skills gap within their business thanks to a Degree Apprenticeship at UCLan.

DXC Technology employs 138,000 staff members in over 70 countries delivering mission-critical IT services worldwide. They pride themselves on creating a culture of learning, diversity, and inclusion with a focus on delivering excellence for customers.

Ethan Monks, UK&I apprentice lead and people manager at DXC, values this culture of learning, adding: “The IT industry is ever-changing, so our employees need to have the most relevant up to date training possible. Having interpersonal skills such as leadership, communication, teamwork, and time management brings great benefit.”

He can also see the benefits of learning on a personal level. Since completing his own Business Analyst Apprenticeship, Ethan enrolled with the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) on the Chartered Management Degree Apprenticeship after researching them online.

“I’ve always wanted to work towards a degree. Now that I am the Apprentice Leader for UK&I and People Manager with a team of 40+ Apprentices and Graduates I want a degree that matches my role and helps me progress in the future and learn managerial techniques.”

Ethan is taking his studies both online and on campus. Ethan adds: “I started sessions virtually for the first month or so; however, since then I have started going onto campus and it’s made such a big difference. Being able to meet people and learn face to face is something I look forward to and having that social interaction to break up the week is fantastic. The course is great, and all the tutors teach in their own ways so there’s always variety.”

Ethan also provides some useful advice to potential degree apprentices: “It’s a fantastic way to meet people, learn and it also saves you money as your company will provide for you, but it is tough. You will have to work extra hours on your assignments. Working and studying isn’t the easiest but being able to implement what you learn as you learn it is invaluable.”

In his role as manager, Ethan recommends any business thinking about working with the University. Ethan said: “Working with UCLan has been a very positive experience for DXC as we have been able to work together to discuss how UCLan’s Degree Apprenticeships can align to our strategy over the coming years and which standards match our roles.”