Vice Chancellors and institute directors have pledged action to support their technical staff. The Technician Commitment sees five key areas identified to improve and safeguard vital technical skills in higher education and research. A steering-group of sector bodies including UKRI, HEFCE, Wellcome Trust and Advance HE will ensure that the Commitment will deliver greater visibility, recognition, career development and sustainability for technicians across all disciplines.
Launched in May 2017, with support of the Science Council and Gatsby Foundation, the Technician Commitment was signed by 36 signatories including. Today, less than a year on, it was announced that the number has reached 66 signatories, representing over 50% of UK universities and several world-leading institutions.
The commitment comes at a key time, as the demand for technicians is increasing. More than 1.5 million technicians currently work in the UK, which is expected to rise by around 70,000 each year.
“It’s clear this initiative is having real impact and we look forward to continuing our work together to ensure visibility, recognition, opportunity and sustainability for technical colleagues across higher education and research.”
Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli, Chair of the Russell Group, said: “As universities, we need to think carefully on how we maintain and sustain the pipeline of technical skills essential to our success; over 9,000 technicians work within the Russell Group.
“The Technician Commitment stands as a call to recognise the very real contribution our technicians make to the life, success and achievement of our universities.”
The impact of the commitment is already being seen within many signatory organisations, who have used positive action to secure success.
Kelly Vere, Higher Education Engagement Manager, Science Council and Technician Commitment Lead, said: “We’re delighted with the pace of engagement from across the sector and are pleased to be working with so many institutions to collectively effect positive change for this vital community.
“Signatories are beginning to report back one year after making their commitment and we’re already hearing some fantastic examples of best practice.
“It’s clear this initiative is having real impact and we look forward to continuing our work together to ensure visibility, recognition, opportunity and sustainability for technical colleagues across higher education and research.”