You might not know it yet, but technicians are a huge part of student life, especially on practical-based courses like Computing. We asked our Computing and Digital Technology Technician, Bruno, about his role to find out more about how he supports our students at BCU.
What is your name and where are you from?
My name is Bruno Junior and I am from Sao Paulo, Brazil, where I lived until I was 21 and then moved to Lisbon and Amsterdam, where I worked as a 3D modeller for a 3D studio in Den Haag, Cisco Systems, Juniper Networks and Nike. In 2008 I moved to Birmingham where I currently live with my family.
Tell us more about your background...
Throughout my life I always being tech savvy, teaching myself how to work with hardware and software. My passion for 3D modelling drove me to try the job market but IT industry proved to be a better career choice. That’s why I came to BCU and graduated in Computer Networks and Security BSc (Hons). At BCU I learned not only about computer networks but also about electronics systems using Raspberry Pi and Arduino boards in which are incredible pieces of hardware.
How long have you worked for BCU?
My career at BCU started when I was still a student when I worked as a Mentor to first year students in 2014 and 2015. In 2016 I did my work placement at BCU also leading me to a full time position in 2017 as a Technician until now.
What courses do you look after as a technician?
I work closely with students across all of our Computing courses. The ones I would say I work with most tend to be Computer Networks and Security, Computing IT, Computer Science, Computer and Data Science, Digital Media Computing. However I am can support students across all courses and campuses who want help with 3D printing and any other computer-related bits and bobs.
What are some of your main responsibilities on a daily basis?
I manage the Project Space located in Millennium Point, on the fourth floor. The space is made up of a lab and an open area used for lectures, practical sessions, and talks. The lab holds a great amount of electronic components that students use to build their projects - and it is also equipped with a 3D printer and a laser cutter. The open area has five cabinets with laptops that students can borrow for their work in general.
How do you work with students?
Students come to the lab when they need support with their projects; I work with students across all year groups, from first year all the away to the third year and support with final year projects. At times it is simple help where I provide electronic components, maybe 3D design/printing related. I am always around to help where is needed.
Where can students find you?
I am usually based on the fourth floor in Millennium Point which is called the 'Project Space/Makers Space'. It is a large open plan area that has all of our laptops available for students to loan and is designed to inspire our students by showcasing student projects close to facilities where you can make it all happen! Otherwise, students are always welcome to book an appointment with me in advance via email/Microsoft Teams.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I enjoy working with the students and being able to help them achieve their goals. The nature of our students and faculty is very creative and innovative so being part of that process is really rewarding for me and I like being able to share my experience to help students succeed.
What advice would you give for students thinking of starting a Computing or Digital Technology course at BCU?
You will be guaranteed to have a supportive community around you always. It doesn't matter how much you know or don't know before you start your degree, once you start we teach you and support you to know everything that you need to be successful in the course that you chose. Make the most of everything on offer to you - and remember that hard work pays off.
Study a degree in Computing and Digital Technology
Take a look through our range of Computing and Digital Technology degrees and find the right one for you. Many of our degrees have Foundation Year options too.
