I WROTE on the Arts/Humanities stream a while back in one of my column pieces, discussing the importance of students joining this field and battling stereotypes against it. Comparable to the arts, is the Industrial Technology field, better known as the ‘Tech Stream’ in most schools across Guyana. “Industrial technology aims to speed up the production process through the combined use of engineering and manufacturing technologies.” – Study.com. For us to understand the importance of Industrial Technology in our everyday lifestyles and the career opportunities it produces, we must first understand the importance of engineering and manufacturing technologies. Technology in manufacturing industries is essentially used to maximise the quality of the products and also reduce the price to produce it. In the era of mass production, where our population is growing rapidly, companies need to produce at the increasing demands we have and at the same time provide quality products. In this field, one is expected to be trained in understanding Mathematics, Engineering, Chemistry, Physics and so on. Since it is based on manufacturing, they are also expected to understand various materials and how these materials are used to make given products. Some of these materials include metals, plastics, electricity, sound light, etc. If by chance they are working in a factory that makes metal tools, they are expected to learn the different types of metals, methods of handling metals, same for any other material and product.

Maybe this is getting a bit boring to read all at once but think about it, everybody wants quality products, companies have to produce large quantities to meet everybody’s needs but who makes it all possible? Well, those who are employed in the field of Industrial Technology of course! In my days at the New Amsterdam Multilateral Secondary (NAMS) my ‘Arts Stream’ class was right next to the ‘Tech Stream’ class. Ironic? Maybe. As if this area is not talked about enough, we keep putting labels unto our girls when they choose to enter this realm of careers. All my years at NAMS there was always that one girl who everybody looked at as ‘different’ because she chose to enter the Technology Stream. I beg to differ, for she is one brave girl; walking into a classroom that could be synonymously labelled as a ‘man’s world’ not by the school, teachers or even male students but society’s general perception of this field. It is important that we recognise and encourage our women not only in this field but the entire playing ground of Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

Industrial Engineers, Quality Assurance Engineers, Industrial Production Managers, Robotics Technicians are all careers that birthed from Industrial Technology. If you are reading this unsure of which field you’d like to pursue, if you are a parent seeking advice for your child or if you are already in the field, my words are filled with motivation and encouragement. In schools, the ‘Tech Stream’ is seen as the lesser option for children. Some may call it a ‘dunce’ class and even look down upon students who wish to pursue it. Let us be reminded that due to the recent oil findings in Guyana, at least 75 percent of job opportunities will be technology-based, some of which will require this very field of work. Also, not forgetting that this field and many other technological fields offer some of the highest earnings for jobs. According to the Caribbean Secondary Examination Council’s syllabus for Industrial Arts, “The economic development and competitive edge of the region are inextricably linked to the application of technology in the manufacture and utilisation of goods and services. These considerations make it an imperative for the region to understand, develop and effectively apply these competencies as they directly impact the quality of our lives.” It is of utmost importance for our developing country and the Caribbean at large; career-wise, economic expansion and growth.

Mr. Tamesh Mohabir, who is currently the Head of Department for (ag) Industrial Technology at the New Amsterdam Multilateral advises our youngsters by saying: “Joining the Industrial Technology Stream will be one of the greatest decisions a child can make in his/her life. Engineering is the foundation for all great inventions and being in this stream will give you a platform from which to launch into this amazing field of study and work. Don’t be discouraged by the stereotypes and clichés going around saying that this area of study is for the students who are not academically inclined, be brave, be bold, follow your passion for creation, manufacturing, designing and building and hop on board the Industrial Technology Train- you won’t regret it – bright future awaits.”