Subsbench aims to end IT skills shortage
Firms wants to become a de facto standard in IT and channel specific-training
Training and placement firm Subsbench is hoping to kick the IT skills shortage into touch, and looking to become a de facto standard in IT and channel-specific training.
The firm, which was founded by David Freer, former founder of VAR Teksys, aims to recruit new entrants to the IT sector, either from university or other industry sales roles, and train and place them in UK IT firms.
Freer said candidates have to first go through a two-stage interview. If they pass this they are then invited for a business-simulation day, with role playing and communications training.
“We want to become the de facto stand for IT skills and training,” Freer said. “Eventually, we want businesses to say that if their new staff haven’t come through the Subsbench, they are not business-ready.”
Stuart Quinsey, managing director of Subsbench, said the company is already working with the Institute of Sales and Marketing Management.
“After candidates get placed, they have to spend two weeks with us learning the business ropes,” he said. “Everything from presentation skills to elocution.
“This training course, which involves a third party, now has ISMM approval so people get a diploma at the end of it, not just a pretty certificate. We are putting 30 people a month through this training.”
Tony Price, managing director of WStore, which has used the firm, said: “Subsbench certainly has got some good ideas and its good that the firm is focused on the channel. Our experience has been good so far.”