Eglington man celebrates big win at the Belfast Telegraph IT Awards
Eglinton man Michael Way has been celebrating a prestigious win following this year’s Belfast Telegraph IT Awards, one of the biggest celebrations of Northern Ireland’s technology sector.
Michael, who now lives in Belfast working as a Software Engineer for major fashion brand ASOS was crowned ‘Young IT Professional of the Year’ award sponsored by leading IT company Fujitsu.
Congratulating Michael, Claire Mc Bride, Account Executive at Fujitsu, and a member of the judging panel said: “We are delighted that Michael took home this award on the night. This category attracts the highest number of entries every year so there is a lot of competition.
"Michael’s dedication to following his dreams and actively mentor and support colleagues made his application stand out. He is a true inspiration to those who are interested in a career in the IT sector."
Beginning his career in the Electoral Office for Northern Ireland, Michael discovered a passion for all things technical and so applied for the ‘Skill Up’ Postgraduate Certificate at Ulster University.
This meant late nights, recorded lectures and using annual leave for studying instead of holidays.
Michael noted how the process was challenging, but extremely rewarding, saying, “it scratched that same part of my brain that getting a difficult cryptic crossword clue does.”
Sharing some words of wisdom to those looking to branch into the IT industry, Michael said: “I truly believe there is no better time to start a career in IT. The investment over the past few years into NI from global tech companies is a real vote of confidence in the sector.
"There are so many opportunities, from the schemes I availed of like Skill Up and Assured Skills Academies, to the internships and apprenticeships being offered by many companies such as Fujitsu.
"My main piece of advice for anyone interested in getting into tech is to bet on yourself. As I look back on the past few years, so many small steps have led me to where I am. Say yes to small things. There is nothing wrong with saying “I'll try that”.
Reflecting on his enormous success on the night, Michael added: “It can be so hard to reflect on how far you have come both personally and professional, but receiving this award feels like a real moment of arrival for me. A recognition of the hard work and setbacks I had getting here and the risks that I took.
“Looking back on pictures from the night, of Claire from Fujitsu handing me the award with a huge smile on my face, I think of how much happier I am now for taking those risks.
"Hopefully a sign of many more happy years to come in this fantastic industry I am lucky to work in. I am so excited to see who home the award next year and find out what it means to them.”