University of Cumbria signs Commitment recognising its professional technical staff

The Technician Commitment is a nationwide initiative aimed at ensuring visibility, recognition, career development, and sustainability for technical staff working across all disciplines in higher education and research. 

It is led by a steering board of sector bodies and hosted by the UK Institute for Technical Skills and Strategy. It invites universities to pledge action to promote the importance of technical roles within their institution and address challenges faced by those working as technicians.  

University of Cumbria has almost 40 technicians who work in academic areas – from Health, Education, and Outdoor Leadership, to Science, Engineering, and the Arts. 

Above: Kenneth Waters, a technician with the Institute of Education, Arts and Society who is based at the University of Cumbria Brampton Road campus 

Technicians play a vital role at University of Cumbria in supporting academic colleagues and students in the sourcing, setting up and maintenance of specialist equipment and technology, and in assisting with the delivery of teaching and technical skills demonstrations. 

This significant step underscores the university's dedication to supporting its technical community and enhancing the vital role technicians play in the academic and research landscape.

Senior science technicians Ryan Tate and Jess Reilly preparing a practical laboratory session for Biomedical Science students at the University of Cumbria Fusehill Street campus 

Stephen Young, Head of IT Services at University of Cumbria, says:

“By joining the Technician Commitment, we are not only recognising the essential role of our technicians but also raising their visibility within the academic community and beyond. Technicians are the backbone and often unsung heroes who support our teaching and research activities. Their contributions are invaluable, helping in the education of our future nurses, allied health professionals such as paramedics and midwives, along with teachers, engineers, and artists. 

“Joining the Technician Commitment acknowledges the professionalism and specialist skills of this team of talented individuals, and the wonderful support they provide to our colleagues and students. We look forward to seeing our team build upon this moving forward to ensure continuous professional improvement, aligning with our Towards 2030 strategy and mission to equip our graduates with the skills and knowledge that enable our communities and economy to thrive." 

Dr Simon Breeden, Associate Lead, Technician Commitment, says:  

“We are delighted to welcome the University of Cumbria to the Technician Commitment community of over 130 signatory and supporter organisations demonstrating institutional support for their technical staff. 

“The inclusive approach the team are taking is extremely pleasing to see, and we look forward to working with them in the coming weeks, months and years to deliver positive culture change for this vital community at the University of Cumbria.” 

Specialist digital simulation technician Finn Drude, a member of the University of Cumbria Institute of Health team who is responsible for developing bespoke simulation material for a variety of platforms including VR (virtual reality), web-based and the university’s on-campus immersive rooms, helping assist students' learning experiences.

As part of the signatory process, the University of Cumbria will now work closely with the Technician Commitment team to develop and implement an action plan that addresses the specific needs of its technical staff. This plan will be reviewed and updated regularly to ensure continuous improvement and alignment with the goals of the Technician Commitment. 

For more information about the Technician Commitment, please visit Technician Commitment Website.