Career chance is a reality

Firm offering 40 apprenticeships

A FIRM which specialises in virtual reality technology has launched a new apprentice scheme to support the booming industry.

EON Reality’s European HQ is based at Central Park in east Manchester, which is on the Oldham Metrolink tram line.

The firm is one of the world’s leading virtual and augmented reality companies and has launched its first apprentice scheme in Greater Manchester in response to global growth over the past year.

Up to 40 places are being created at the HQ for young people aged 18 and above.

The 12-month programme starts in January, 2016, and EON Reality will support apprentices during their training by offering up to £25 per week towards travel expenses.

Individuals will be trained in a range of skills including 3D/virtual reality design, development, programming and application creation.

This training will lead to an apprenticeship and a job in the creative and digital sector with EON Reality.

The course is aimed at people who have some knowledge of digital content or 3D web media and an aptitude to learn about creative digital content, whether that be coding, real-time 3D engine, modelling or animation.

Training will be done by 3D experts from all over the world using the latest technology and apprentices will get the opportunity to develop applications and work on projects that are being used by today’s businesses and education sectors.

Ken Swain, the firm’s UK managing director, said: “We have launched this apprentice scheme in response to the growing demand for augmented reality and virtual reality, particularly with the move to mobile platforms.

“It is forecast that the industry could be worth $150 billion by 2020 and, as a leading provider of applications in this sector, we need to train talented people here in Greater Manchester and develop their skills to help satisfy the demand for this evolving technology.”

Marcin Kasica, EON Reality’s academy director of global education and training, said: “Greater Manchester was a natural choice for EON Reality’s first apprenticeship programme. We have an excellent track record of finding talent in this region. People here are smart, creative and have a passion for virtual reality.

“Since arriving here in March, 2013, our business has expanded rapidly and the team in Greater Manchester has played a huge part in this. We now need to nurture more talent which will enable us to retain and grow our position as a major player in the sector.”

EON Reality provides 3D display technology for immersive and stereoscopic viewing, from portable tablet computers and glass-free stereo display systems to curved-screen and immersive rooms with multi-channel projection walls.

To find out more about the apprenticeship Scheme, which starts on January 11, 2016, contact Alexandra Painter on 0161-669 6294 or visit www.students.eonreality.com.

An apprenticeship awareness morning will be held on Wednesday, December 9, from 10am to 12.30pm.