Dear Mr Schmidt
We're not in denial about needing to encourage more young people to study tech-related subjects, but right now we need all the support we can get.
"Lord Sugar is in the news relatively frequently and he has a high profile. If you look at his background, it's in the tech sector. We need to champion [these people]... At the moment lots of people are seeking their 15 minutes of fame. But people that come up with great ideas take risks to see that innovation come to life."
He added: "[They] need to be out there and be positive role models for the next generation. Not many people could pick out the inventor of the internet in a line up, but they could probably pick out Jedward! That needs to be addressed."
What we need is more action rather than words, lambasting or otherwise. And, yes I say that as I realise I've just written more words on the subject. But I can't solve this problem alone. In all honesty, neither can Mr Schmidt. We must work together as an industry now if we ever want to work together in the future.
What do you think? Let us know at comments@itpro.co.uk
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Maggie has been a journalist since 1999, starting her career as an editorial assistant on then-weekly magazine Computing, before working her way up to senior reporter level. In 2006, just weeks before ITPro was launched, Maggie joined Dennis Publishing as a reporter. Having worked her way up to editor of ITPro, she was appointed group editor of CloudPro and ITPro in April 2012. She became the editorial director and took responsibility for ChannelPro, in 2016.
Her areas of particular interest, aside from cloud, include management and C-level issues, the business value of technology, green and environmental issues and careers to name but a few.
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