We catch up with the head of connectivity, economy and data division in the digital directorate within the Scottish Government.
What does your role involve?
Promoting and facilitating improved digital connectivity, a strong digital economy and more effective use of public sector data.
What do you consider to be the most imminent challenge in your line of work?
Connecting the last 5%, increasing the volume of high level digital skills and maintaining and gaining public trust in use of personal data.
What has been the most rewarding piece of work you’ve undertaken?
Recently, working with all stakeholders on our open data strategy and ensuring we delivered on two national actions in it: a resource pack on “why and how” as well as training.
How can Scotland bridge the digital skills gap?
By implementing the Digital Skills Investment Plan, ie a curriculum in schools, colleges and universities that interests students and reflects how digital is used today and employer requirements. Also by teaching staff who have access to continuous development and industry contact, plus an industry image that attracts potential employees.
Which new technology excites you the most?
Internet of Things communications that will save energy.
What’s your favourite app and why?
Anything about the weather.
What, for you, will 2016 be the year of from a technology/digital standpoint?
Eighty-five per cent of the Scottish population with access to fibre broadband.
Job Title/Organisation: Head of Connectivity, Economy and Data Division, Digital Directorate, Scottish Government
What does your role involve?
Promoting and facilitating improved digital connectivity, a strong digital economy and more effective use of public sector data.
What do you consider to be the most imminent challenge in your line of work?
Connecting the last 5 per cent, increasing the volume of high level digital skills and maintaining and gaining public trust in use of personal data.
What has been the most rewarding piece of work you’ve undertaken?
Recently, working with all stakeholders on our open data strategy and ensuring we delivered on two national actions in it: a resource pack on “why and how” as well as training.
How can Scotland bridge the digital skills gap?
By implementing the Digital Skills Investment Plan, ie a curriculum in schools, colleges and universities that interests students and reflects how digital is used today and employer requirements. Also by teaching staff who have access to continuous development and industry contact, plus an industry image that attracts potential employees.
Which new technology excites you the most?
Internet of Things communications that will save energy.
What’s your favourite app and why?
Anything about the weather.
What, for you, will 2016 be the year of from a technology/digital standpoint?
Eighty-five per cent of the Scottish population with access to fibre broadband.
For 100 days, PublicTechnology sister publication Holyrood Connect is running through its Tech 100 for 2015, profiling the key figures driving the digital agenda in Scotland
