Profile
Sam Gilbert
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About Me:
I live in Solihull (near Birmingham) with my husband, 13 year old Son, 11 year old Daughter and our rescue Dog. I work for a Construction Company in an Information Technology Support role and I am currently studying towards a Masters Degree. I enjoy doing Ballet, Karate, reading and playing computer games in my spare time.
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I have always loved fixing things, taking things apart and working out how they work. I also really enjoy helping people, so working in IT Support enables me to combine the things I enjoy most. Working in a STEM based career is great fun as it is very varied and can take you anywhere. I enjoy learning and IT gives me the opportunity to keep doing this as it is always changing.
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My pronouns are:
She/Her
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My Work:
I work as a Modern Workplace Engineer, my job involves providing staff with any technology they need, laptops, software, network access, mobiles and tablets.
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I have been working in Information Technology for over 20 years. I have a BSc Hons degree in Information and Communication Technology which I achieved whilst working. I have also worked for in various IT roles for Financial institutions, Warwickshire Police, a car manufacturer (SAIC/MG) and Telecoms companies. I am a strong believer that you can do and achieve anything you set your mind to, but to have a job you enjoy is priceless. IT is a rewarding area to work in, utilising various skill sets. Given that most if not all companies require the use of IT to be current, competitive and with the shift to all things digital and in the cloud, it not only means that IT/Computing jobs are varied but there is a requirement to be continuously learning.
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My Typical Day:
I start work at around 8:30, most days I work from my home office. I get to work through a list of issues which have been reported to IT by people in the company. I also package software to be installed automatically for users. Sometimes I am needed on sites so I get to wear a hard hat, bright yellow jacket and Dr Marten boots. My day usually finishes at 17:30
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I can do most of my work using remote control tools, where I get to move the mouse and type on the keyboard of the computer with the issue using the internet. I also talk other engineers and people through fixing things themselves over the phone.
Some of my day is taken up by meetings and planning of work within the team, I also have to liaise with other departments to ensure things are working and processes are in place.
I use a lot of software and tools in my role which are cloud based so I have to make sure my home internet connection and the internet connection in offices and on building sites are working well.
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What I'd do with the prize money:
I think this platform idea is great, offering the connection of students to STEM workers allowing them to pose questions check out people profiles, draw parallels to interests and see what jobs entail.
I believe mentoring needs to be available to students at a younger age, I would like to facilitate a solution like this more regularly, connecting students safely to people who work in STEM roles from which they can gain insights, real life advice on career paths, option choices etc.
It is especially important for those who have no idea on what they want to do, a place to showcase the variety of employers, roles, careers and education options for students today.
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Education:
Coundon Court School and Community College – Coventry
City College Coventry
The Open University
Northumbria University – Ongoing Masters Degree
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Qualifications:
8 GCSE's A Level Geography and Information Technology A Level Media Studies A Level Law Certificate in Criminology Certificate in ICT Certificate in Computing and Mathematics Professional Certificate in IC Practice Foundation Degree in Information and Communication Technology BSc Honours Degree Information and Communication Technology
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Work History:
October 2013 – October 2022 – BAM Construction – Senior IT Support Analyst
August 2009 – October 2013 – SAIC Motor UK (MG) – IT Support Analyst
March 2009 – August 2009 – Magic Pulse – IT Helpdesk Manager
April 2007 – March 2009 – BT Expedite – Senior Support Analyst\Team Leader
December 2002 – March 2007 – Warwickshire Police – User Support Analyst
May 2001 – December 2002 – GPN – IT Support Analyst
January 1998 – April 2001 – Coventry Building Society – Helpdesk Analyst & Customer service advisor
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Current Job:
Modern Workplace Engineer – June 2024 to present (worked at BAM since October 2013)
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Employer:
BAM Group
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My Interview
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How would you describe yourself in 3 words?
Helps fix IT
What did you want to be after you left school?
A Paramedic
Were you ever in trouble at school?
No
If you weren't doing this job, what would you choose instead?
Medical Researcher
Who is your favourite singer or band?
Linkin Park
What's your favourite food?
Sushi
If you had 3 wishes for yourself what would they be? - be honest!
I wish to always be happy, healthy and have a fast car
Tell us a joke.
What is a computers favourite snack? MicroChips
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