Inspiring the next generation of tech leaders

Now in our third year supporting ShadowTech Day, Tuatahi is proud to be part of an event that inspires young women to explore STEM - science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The visiting students, from Years 9 to 11, spent the day immersed in the world of fibre technology and telecommunications.

The experience was hands-on and engaging. Students explored the inside of a roadside fibre cabinet and participated in a range of activities, including GIS mapping, building a fibre network using wool, solving cybersecurity scenarios, software testing, quizzes, and a presentation about Tech in the Tron. Students were able to get a real sense of the innovation driving our industry and how fibre broadband connects communities.

They also had the opportunity to engage with Tuatahi team members, gaining insights into a wide range of career paths, from engineering and IT, to cybersecurity and digital product development.

Event organiser and Tuatahi Digital Platforms Product Owner Lavinia Raj said the day was a rewarding one.

“We had double the number of students this year, and they were a really engaged group – the chocolate bribes may have helped with that!”

“What really stood out was the quality of their questions. They wanted to know how we got into our roles, what we studied and what we love about our jobs. It sparked some great conversations around doing what you love, staying curious and always being open to learning.

“Their physics knowledge was impressive too, and they jumped straight into the activities without hesitation.”

Lavinia also credited the success of the day to a strong team effort. “This wouldn’t have been possible without our amazing Tuatahi team who brought fresh perspectives, ideas and different career journeys to the table. That diversity really showed the students that there’s no single path into a tech career.”

Student feedback echoed the success of the day. Many spoke about the warm welcome, the insights and learnings they took away, and how much they enjoyed the interactive activities.

“I liked the GIS mapping, the activity where we mapped our fibre cables – that was really interesting,” said one student. Another added, “I liked getting to know what subjects everyone [Tuatahi staff members] took at school, this will help me decide on my choices for next year.”While looking at our home install demo unit, one student commented, “I'm totally nerding out here, I think I will continue taking sciences next year!"

Tuatahi Chief People and Sustainability Officer Nick Ollington said the company is proud to play a part in empowering the next generation.

“Our partnership with TechWomen is driven by our ongoing commitment to building a future where diversity, curiosity and opportunity go hand in hand. Initiatives like ShadowTech Day create a space for more young women to see themselves in tech careers.”

“Showcasing what’s possible and making STEM more accessible helps to shape a stronger, more diverse tech workforce. Diversity drives innovation, and innovation shapes the future.”

Getting hands-on with fibre! Students explored how fibre cables connect our communities.

Tuatahi staff chat with students about her career journey

Using a microscope to inspect the fibre, and software to run a cleanliness test on the fibre.

Curious minds in action. Students asked thoughtful questions throughout the day, eager to learn more about career paths and the tech behind our fibre network.

Students engaged with Tuatahi team members through a series of interactive activities. Asking questions, solving challenges, and learning more about the people behind the fibre network.

Putting their cyber-smarts to the test. Students tackled real-world cybersecurity scenarios.

Students worked together to build a fibre network using using wool and a map of their hometown, Te Awamutu.

Exploring the world of GIS. Students used digital mapping tools to learn how fibre networks are designed, planned and brought to life.