As the industry body for IT and leading apprenticeship end-point assessor, BCS understands the challenges IT trainees face when they get into the workplace.

Learning the technical skills to perform your role, that’s only the beginning. Developing your soft skills is just as important if you want to make an impact (after all, success for today’s tech teams hinges on being able to communicate effectively across the whole business). Then there’s mastering workplace etiquette, managing your time, prioritising your workload, not to mention prepping for the exams you need to pass to complete your training.

Associate membership gives you the resources and know-how to tackle these challenges head on, so you can quickly settle into your role and start adding value to the team. Our online career centre is packed with e-learning courses covering essential business skills, employer videos offering practical tips and advice, and personal assessments to help you reflect on your working behaviours and areas for development.

You’re reading this, so we know professional development and recognition are important to you, right? BCS Associate membership is your next logical step to becoming a trusted professional, working alongside your IT training programme to develop your reputation and potential.

By joining BCS you sign up to the BCS Code of Conduct and, in doing so, show that you acknowledge and accept your professional responsibilities. The industry’s fastest-growing registration, RITTech, also aligns with Associate membership enabling members to put themselves ‘on the map’ early on in their career by validating their competence and appearing on a public register.

Think of your BCS membership as the wireframe for your professional growth – championing your integrity, keeping your development on track, and signposting opportunities for wider recognition and progression along the way.

Making it in the technology industry – it’s a whole lot easier when you have the support of the professional IT community behind you.

BCS networking channels include local branches, specialist groups and our mentoring programme, each designed to connect you with other practitioners working in your field or sector. And since every member shares a passion for tech and a commitment to professional standards, you know you’ll be in good company. You could tap into their experience if you need help working through technical challenges in your role, advice for dealing with workplace politics, or tips for squeezing exam revision into your busy schedule. Your new contacts will be pleased to share their knowledge and insight.

And if you’re on the hunt for new job opportunities after you've graduated from your training, your BCS professional network is a valuable place to start.