Jo Wilcox: From Assessing Property to Assessing Tech Quality
I finally have a sense of belonging.
After earning a degree in Real Estate Surveying, Jo began her career as an Assistant Asset Manager at a shopping centre. However, after four years in this industry, the feelings that this was not her true calling grew stronger and stronger. Then in 2023, Jo was forced to leave her position due to an ongoing disability. Being out of work for 9 months was a chance to reflect, and while it was a challenging period, it ultimately led to her changing direction. She knew that it was time to make her dream a reality.
“I had always wanted a career in tech, but I just didn’t know how to get there.”
The opportunity for change came when Jo met Catch22 at a jobs fair, who were promoting the Click Start TechUPWomen programme by Durham University. From this very first conversation, she knew that it was exactly what was needed.
Click Start: The Free course that gives you next-level digital skills“The overall programme experience for me was even better than I could have imagined. I had an incredible tutor and career coach, and my cohort was filled with amazing women that were so supportive of one another. I have never felt as empowered as I did whilst on the course, and for the first time I felt like I could really do this.”
The programme exceeded expectations in many ways. Not only did she gain valuable technical skills in areas such as testing and quality assurance (QA), accessibility, and coding, but she also discovered a new level of self-worth and confidence. After nearly a year out of work, Jo was concerned about re-joining the world of work, especially in a new industry. However, the employability sessions with Catch22 provided essential tools and guidance to successfully update her CV and prepare for interviews.
“I am now in a job that I love, and I enjoy waking up each day for. I finally have a sense of belonging.”
Shortly after completing the programme, Jo secured a position as a Junior QA Engineer at Conductr, testing their Game Volt products. The transformation she experienced during the TechUPWomen programme has inspired her to encourage others to do the same.
“Don’t hesitate or overthink it; take that step and find out what you’re capable of doing with a bit of help. Trust the process and give it your all.”
Jo’s story serves as a testament to the impact of the Click Start programme and the power of finding the right support at the right time.
Learn more about how the TechUPWomen Programme could be right for you.
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