Students and graduates interested in an IT career can attend a networking event next week to learn about what the field has to offer in Bermuda.

The Technology Leadership Forum (TLF), a charity aimed at helping young people establish a career in IT, will be hosting their eighth annual Summer IT Networking Event.

“Technology is all around us, we need it for our day-to-day lives,” TLF chairwoman Sandra DeSilva said. “In order for Bermuda to maintain its presence in the global market, we need more students interested in and pursuing careers in information communication technology to provide a continuing strategic advantage.”

The event is designed to give graduates, university students and prospective students the opportunity to meet with senior IT leaders, TLF alumni and a range of IT industry professionals.

According to programme director Coral Wells, students and graduates can learn about what is happening in the IT industry in Bermuda, which businesses are looking to hire and what type of positions are available.

While helping students to expand their network of subject matter experts, the event also promotes the organisation’s summer internship programme.

Ms Wells said that there is a constant flow of IT jobs in Bermuda, despite some positions, such as help desk jobs, having moved off the Island.

The event is designed to get students on the right track to securing employment by highlighting what positions and opportunities are available locally.

Ms Wells added: “If students want a career in IT, they don’t have to plan on going to an IT company — IT is in every company.”

Representatives from re/insurance companies and other businesses will also be attending the event to demonstrate what an IT career in their company offers.

According to Ms Wells, Bermuda already has the infrastructure to support technology as a third pillar of the economy alongside international business and tourism.

But she added that this can only be achieved if there are enough skilled locals employed in the field. The TLF is hoping to expand its outreach to help get students and children interested in technology at a younger age.

The Summer IT Networking Event will be held at the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club from 5.30pm to 8pm on July 21.

• Register to attend by visiting www.tlf.bm or e-mail info@tlf.bm