Tech champ who lit beacon for a smarter Oldham

Andy Powell: “I want to really promote science, technology, engineering and maths-related work in Oldham.”

A TECHNOLOGY champion who founded a community workspace for Oldham IT and engineering geeks has been nominated for a Pride in Oldham award.

Andy Powell, who runs his own web-design business, Caffeinated Projects, has played a key role in launching Hack Oldham - a meeting place with offices and equipment based in an old joiner’s workshop in Hardcastle Street.

Hack Oldham, which opened two months ago, provides facilities for people with common interests such as computers, science and electronic art.

Training space, 3D printing facilities, an electronics laboratory and workshop are all part of the community-focused project. Andy worked in IT support before launching his own venture, which now employs two staff.

Speaking about being nominated for an award, Andy (38) said: “I’m a little bit shocked to be honest. But it’s nice for all the hard work to be recognised by others. I’m grateful to be nominated — it’s really cool.”

Regarding plans for Hack Oldham, he said: “I want to really promote science, technology, engineering and maths-related work in Oldham. There are great careers to be had in these sectors and I want young people to be aware of all the choices.”

Hack Oldham developed from Andy’s links to Oldham Council activities. He has run computer coding clubs at Oldham Library and the library has loaned technology and craft books for display at the new venue.

Andy has also promoted STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) education work with St Margaret’s School and Holy Family in Hollinwood and wants to develop more educational projects with Oldham schools. He has also led education projects for schools in Manchester.

David Soponski, a member of Hack Oldham, said: “I nominated Andy because of his commitment to education. He shows how the new things kids learn in school can be used in the real world.”