80% of New Zealand graduates have little or no confidence in their job prospects, according to a recent survey. What a waste of talent, potential, and social investment. Under-investing in interns and grads will have ripple effects for decades to come, NOW is the time to grow our future.

In late 2023, MBIE engaged Summer of Tech to carry out a discovery project, to research, engage and work with different players/roles in the tech skills system to uncover and define requirements for a nationwide internship service as a way to address the tech skills shortage in New Zealand.

Navigating the tough terrain of entry-level tech jobs in Aotearoa in 2024. There are more candidates, especially graduates seeking their first role. Low employer engagement so far. Tips for industry, Volunteers and Candidates to make the best of a tough job market.

Summer of Tech creates a safe and supportive environment for every student-facing activity that we organise, including our bootcamps. Here are some suggestions that you can consider as candidates, alumni, industry volunteers, mentors, presenters and employers:

As we get ready for our mid-year recruitment season, here’s a look under the Summer of Tech “hood”. Our team and more than 80 industry volunteers have been hard at work supporting students and recent grads to get ready to join Aotearoa’s tech industry.

Jay works in cyber security/information security and is a Summer of Tech mentor. In 2021 she kindly offered to answer community questions about her experiences as an openly queer person with disabilities working in the tech industry.