Following its successful debut at Cambridge Tech Week 2024, the Tech Futures initiative is set to expand significantly in 2025. Aimed at students from sixth forms, skills bootcamps, colleges, and universities, the programme will offer opportunities to attend conference sessions, engage in hands-on tech activities, explore Innovation Alley, connect with exhibitors, network with industry delegates, and participate in a three-day hackathon, HackEd, delivered by TechEducators.
Tech Futures is a dedicated strand of Cambridge Tech Week designed to raise awareness among young people - especially those from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds - about the broad range of careers available in the tech sector, including paths they may have never previously considered.
“We want the next generation excited about the possibilities of working in tech,” said Michaela Eschbach, CEO of Cambridge Wireless which runs Cambridge Tech Week.
“Working with Form the Future and TechEducators means we can bring young people to the event and offer them an incredible experience.”
Anne Bailey, CEO of Form the Future and the originator of Tech Futures in 2024, added: “Cambridge Tech Week offers young people a unique opportunity to engage with some of the brightest minds and most exciting innovations in the global tech space. We hope their experiences spark interest and drive them to explore tech careers further.”
In 2025, the programme will accommodate around 240 students - tripling its capacity and activities from the previous year. Half of the participants will access the wider Cambridge Tech Week agenda, while the other half will take part exclusively in the intensive three-day HackEd experience.
James Adams, Founder and CEO of TechEducators, said: “We’re excited to bring HackEd to Cambridge Tech Week. It’s an immersive, high-impact experience, and participants will gain valuable skills and connections from the event.”
Schools, skills bootcamps, colleges, and universities within a 30-mile radius of Cambridge are encouraged to apply early to secure places. All enquiries should go to info@formthefuture.org.uk.
The benefits of Tech Futures extend beyond the students. Companies that engage with young talent through the programme can save significantly on recruitment costs, improve candidate retention, and build a more diverse, motivated workforce.
Corporate supporters include The Bradfield Centre, which will host HackEd, along with QuadMark and Salable, who continue their valued partnership for this special edition. Tech companies and prospective mentors interested in sponsoring or participating are invited to get in touch as soon as possible by contacting info@cambridgetechweek.co.uk.