More than 500 Information and Digital Technology school students across NSW this month logged on to the state’s largest digital skills work placement program where they immersed themselves in the world of artificial intelligence (AI).

Throughout the weeklong Vocational Education and Training (VET) Virtual Work Placement Program, school students were mentored by employers from four members of the NSW Digital Skills and Workforce Compact: Amazon Web Services (AWS), CommBank, IBM ANZ and Accenture. 

AWS, Managing Director of ANZ Public Sector, Louise Stigwood, said the company had been co-delivering the VET Virtual Work Placement Program with the department for five years.

This year, they were excited to expand the program to other technology leaders to build a more holistic experience for students.

“The NSW VET Virtual Work Placement Program democratises access to work placements and provided students across NSW, even those based extremely remotely, with the opportunity to engage with some of Australia’s most recognisable technology-centric companies across different industries,” Ms Stigwood said.

“The week provided school students with tangible digital skills and, perhaps most importantly, opened their eyes to the many and varied technology career pathways available.”

Under the guidance of industry mentors, the students engaged in workshops that simulated an authentic, online corporate environment, with the aim of inspiring them to pursue digital careers in AI.

CommBank, Executive General Manager, Human Resources, Jane Adams, was a sponsor at this year’s work placement. She is passionate about supporting young people to build the skills they need to thrive in a tech-driven world.

“Students benefit most from seeing the diversity and dynamic nature of the digital world,” Ms Adams said. “They got to experience agile ways of working, problem-solving in teams and the creativity that underpins tech innovation.”

As a believer in alternative pathways and advocate for the Digital Compact’s 20% Alternative Pathways Pledge, Ms Adams said non-traditional career journeys in technology were valuable.

“What matters most are curiosity, collaboration, and a willingness to learn,” she said. “Don’t be afraid to take a non-linear path. The digital world is constantly evolving, and there’s always room to grow.”

IBM ANZ, Managing Director, Nick Flood said the projected skills shortfall of 85,000 digital workers in NSW by 2030 made initiatives like the program critical in expanding the talent pipeline.

“IBM is proud to have worked with the NSW Government to help open the tech sector to new talent and ensure equal representation through this exciting initiative,” Mr Flood said.

“Activities such as the VET Virtual Work Placement Program are essential for exposing students to the wide range of opportunities in this industry sector and, importantly, providing them with up-to-date information on the latest trends and developments.”