DataTorque tech firm turns to interns

One of New Zealand’s leading tech businesses has taken a fresh approach to its recruitment processes. Wellington-based DataTorque hired 14 interns as part of its very first internship programme. The approach it is taking is paying dividends.

“They power through their work. We enjoy the unique buzz around the place,” says chief operating officer Raymond Marshall.

Founded in 1994, DataTorque develops specialist software that helps governments collect taxes. Which then funds public services and infrastructure.

With more than 140 staff in a vibrant, supportive, corporate environment, DataTorque is keen to provide interns with new opportunities.

“DataTorque has been growing steadily. We have won major new business that has enabled us to take some new approaches to the way we are doing things,” says Raymond.

“We have increased capacity to mentor, train and take care of people early in their careers. Whether they be developers, testers, or business analysts,” he says.

The regular intake of interns, sourced mostly through the Summer of Tech, comprises developers, test analysts, and business analysts.

Working at DataTorque exposes them to international tech systems, and the crucial importance of tax reform to nations based in Africa, Europe, the Pacific, and the Caribbean.

“It also gives them many opportunities to learn and have fun as part of our inclusive team that always has social activities on the go.”

Former intern Vincent Cherry joined DataTorque as a software developer. Having graduated from WelTec with a Bachelor of Information Technology majoring in Software Development, it was a great logical next step in his career.

“It was such an awesome feeling being able to get straight into this and start working with languages and technologies that I enjoyed the most at WelTec."

Vincent says interns bring a different energy to a team and are quick learners.

Another former intern Sandy Kaur says programmes like DataTorque’s help to close the skills gap.

"Interns are great for bringing fresh new ideas to work. That can increase productivity and help employees to share their workload so they can focus on core business goals,” says the test analyst.

Armed with a Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering and a Post-Graduate Diploma in Information Technology (Level 8), the opportunity to work at DataTorque was a dream come true for Sandy.

“The greatest thing I learned was working in a team. Four testers and eight developers all in the same team working on the same project… everybody is very supportive and helpful.”

 

As a business, Raymond says there are many great reasons to employ interns.

“Like Vincent and Sandy, they tend to be eager to put their knowledge to work and hungry for opportunity.

“We need to keep looking for fresh ideas and new ways of doing things. People new to the game are good at doing that, particularly when you team them up with experienced operators.”

Neither the market nor technology stands still. Raymond says continually reassessing recruitment approaches is a must.

“It’s always a real balance for a business to attract and retain the right mix of skills and experience."

DataTorque is well-placed to provide opportunities for the next generation of talent.

"It’s important they are supported to contribute to the business to the best of their ability and to get the most out of their experience. That way we all see the benefit,” says Raymond.