AtkinsRéalis Launches Hackathon to Attract Digital Talent in Manchester

In General XR News

October 29, 2024 – Engineering services and nuclear company AtkinsRéalis has recently announced the launch of a recruitment campaign aimed at finding tech talent to take part in its new weekend-long ‘#HackaFuture’ hackathon, with five permanent roles on offer to the winning team.

AtkinsRéalis stated that its own digital teams are rapidly expanding to develop and deliver new solutions that incorporate advanced technology and noted that technologies like robotics, augmented reality (AR), gaming engines and drones are playing an increasingly essential role in delivering clean energy and sustainable infrastructure.

The #HackaFuture hackathon and recruitment event will offer an opportunity to replace the traditional recruitment process, with the event designed to “showcase creativity and attitudes over qualifications and experience,” and “challenge preconceptions that only those with engineering degrees can succeed in the industry.”

From gamers and software developers to data scientists, the hackathon aims to find new, forward-thinking talent with creative mindsets and the ability to approach problems differently. Participants will use cutting edge technology to create a prototype solution to real-world problems, and there are no specific qualifications or experience required to enter.

Sam Stephens, Head of Digital for AtkinsRéalis’ nuclear business, said: “Our digital teams work in dynamic and fast-paced environments, and we’re looking for a whole mix of skill sets and backgrounds to develop our technology solutions. We have over 500 patented solutions developed for the UK and clients across our global business, and the winning teams will be at the heart of driving innovation to power a clean energy future.”

The #HackaFuture event will take place in Manchester from February 8–9, 2025 as part of the city’s Digital Skills Festival, for which AtkinsRéalis is a Headline Sponsor. The winners will each be offered a permanent job as Digital & Technology Specialist, based in AtkinsRéalis’ central Manchester offices. However, AtkinsRéalis added that all participants in the event will also be considered for live and future opportunities across some of the company’s many digital and technology vacancies, along with access to career mentors.

Katie Gallagher, Managing Director of Manchester Digital, organizers of the Digital Skills Festival, said: “This hackathon will kickstart our Digital Skills Festival with a dynamic challenge designed to tap into the brightest minds and digital innovators within the region’s thriving tech ecosystem. AtkinsRéalis is looking for digitally savvy individuals who are ready to disrupt the industry with their ideas and skills, and the tech talent in Greater Manchester is the ideal location to focus their search. We are thrilled to have HackaFuture as part of our festival. The event exemplifies our commitment to the region’s tech sector growth and investment in early talent.”

AtkinsRéalis stated that anyone interested in entering the hackathon should do so by November 30. Teams of up to five can enter, with a commitment to match individual applicants with other prospective competitors to help create teams with a balance of strengths and skills. For more information on the event and how to enter, click here.

Image credit: AtkinsRéalis

About the author

Sam is the Founder and Managing Editor of Auganix. With a background in research and report writing, he has been covering XR industry news for the past seven years.

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