I’ve worked at Cisco for more than 17 years, and I continue to enjoy my job and the unique, rewarding challenges that each day brings. One such “unique and rewarding challenge” involved hosting the UKI Partner Summit one day and volunteering with the UKI sales and specialist team the next.
After a day of keynotes and breakout sessions where we shared business and solutions priorities and networked with about 150 of our partners, the Cisco team concluded the Summit by volunteering at Tresham College—a collection of further education colleges in the East Midlands of England.
Connecting with Gen Z
Our group of about 30 volunteers had a solid plan for how we would spend our time with the students. The agenda included providing an opportunity for collaborative learning and presenting, and sharing information about the Cisco Degree Apprentice Program. Yet when we arrived on campus, there was a little tentativeness about how the day would go.
In my role and with my personality, making connections is second nature to me. I thrive on the energy of building and maintaining relationships with colleagues and partners alike. It’s one of the many reasons I enjoy working at Cisco. I also have children in the same age range as the Tresham students, and as a parent to Gen Zers, forging connections with this age group is essential to me—though not always as easy to cultivate as those with work colleagues (IYKYK).
While we knew this experience would push some of us out of our comfort zones, we were eager to make a positive impact on the students we met. So, we shook off the nerves and dove into the day.
We started by gathering in groups comprised of students and volunteers. Each group was asked to discuss the business model of a recognizable tech company (think YouTube, Snapchat, Instagram, etc.) and how Artificial Intelligence might play a role in the evolution of the business. Then, each cohort would present its findings to the broader audience while being judged on their presentation skills by Cisco volunteers. What we hadn’t fully considered was that we were working with primarily introverted students. Cue the nerves once again, as we second-guessed whether we had chosen the correct approach with the exercise.
Wow, did those students prove themselves!
A Metamorphosis
In a matter of three hours, thanks to ice breakers and encouragement from Cisco volunteers, we watched the students transform from shy, barely interested teens to confident, highly engaged participants. Those who presented showcased their group’s perspectives with insightful, engaging, and, at times, even humorous presentations to an audience of 150 of their peers and Cisco adjudicators. And the judges—they took their role to the next level, with flair akin to those on the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, or a panel of Olympics adjudicators scoring a gymnastics competition. “It was almost magical to see the students’ talent, courage, and competitive instincts come alive,” shared Alice Hardy, Business Development Manager for Cisco UKI, and event co-planner.
It was an extraordinarily enriching exercise for the students and the volunteers. “I was assigned to work with one of the student teams,” shared Preston Abbensetts, a Cisco Apprentice and one of the volunteers. “They were a knowledgeable bunch, and it was amazing to see the collaboration amongst them, and ideas spark, as their presentations came together.”
Post-College Career Path Opportunities
The day wasn’t over yet. The second half of our time with the students was focused on sharing information about the Cisco Degree Apprentice program, a learning and development opportunity that offers on-the-job experience in both business and technical routes at Cisco. Preston Abbensetts and Jacob Webb, two current Degree Apprentices, gave the overview and knocked it out of the park!
In fact, sharing their experience with the Tresham students was a key part of their apprenticeship journey. “What I appreciate most about the Cisco Degree Apprenticeship program is the responsibility we’re given early on—a chance to manage projects and partners—with support from Cisco leaders every step of the way,” Preston shared with students.
“As someone who recently completed my college courses, I could relate to the Tresham students,” Jacob shared. “There is a lot of pressure to know what you want to do once you finish college, and I was glad to share one alternative for them to consider for their life after Tresham.”
“As a result of sharing my experience, several students expressed an interest in applying for the Degree Apprenticeship program,” said Preston. “It’s a good feeling to know you’re helping to build someone’s confidence for their future.”
Great Potential Ahead
What a day and opportunity for each of us on the Cisco team! Our time at Tresham College was more rewarding than any of us anticipated. It was a unique way of coming together to impact the next generation.
We provided real value and insights for these young adults by introducing them to possible technology-focused pathways for their future careers. Now that they have more exposure to Cisco, perhaps some of them will be part of a future cohort of apprentices. That’s something I look forward to seeing!
Do you have inspiring stories about how your organization is creating opportunities in the communities you serve? Do share!
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