​Kieran Howlett from Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, is in his first year of the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) apprenticeship scheme. He is currently working in the Research Infrastructure Group (RIG) of the Scientific Computing Department (SCD). The team work to support many projects within STFC, the UK and Europe by managing computer resources and providing e-infrastructure. This includes, but is not limited to, managing High Performance Computing clusters such as SCARF, the super-data-cluster JASMIN and core services for the European Grid Infrastructure.

When asked about what projects Kieran has been involved with during his time with RIG, he replied, “I have been assigned multiple tasks to be completed within specific timeframes."

“This included setting up a server for use within SCD and creating a new piece of software to simplify server control. I also deal with the helpdesk side of SCARF and for PEARL, a powerful deep learning system, to assist users with issues and allow smooth operation."

He then went onto say, “The main appeal for me to join SCD was the commitment, not just within SCD, but from STFC as a whole towards their apprentices. They give you multiple ways to improve and the overall job looked enticing to be a part of. During the interview phase and whilst looking online, I found that STFC trusted their apprentices to succeed, and if they feel you are right for the job they will employ you after your course has finished."

In the future, Kieran hopes to continue to work within the IT industry, providing high-quality support to end-users so that they have the best possible experience.

Find out more about the apprenticeship opportunities within SCD here​.