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Alumni Stories: How Marcus Turned Electrical Skills into Digital Innovation Leadership

The best tutors I came across during my education were industry-based, able to share real-world experiences. You have to stay curious, you have to be open to learning from the people around you.

What began as an electrical apprenticeship has grown into a career shaping the future of digital connectivity across Jersey.

Marcus Irwin is Head of Product Innovation at Jersey Telecom, leading the development of new services and helping define how the island stays connected in an increasingly digital world. 

Marcus first joined Highlands as an electrical installation apprentice, building a strong foundation in the trade and developing a practical understanding of how systems work. After completing his apprenticeship, Marcus joined Jersey Telecom as a technical officer, a role that required him to continue developing his qualifications alongside his work.

As his responsibilities grew, so did his commitment to learning. Alongside his role, he completed industry-recognised certifications, including the Cisco Certified Network Associate, and undertook further study through the Open University, using Highlands as an exam centre to support his progression.

I’ve always seen learning as something ongoing. The college’s emphasis on applied learning and real-world problem solving gave me a practical foundation and a mindset for continuous learning.

That combination of practical experience and continuous development enabled Marcus to evolve beyond technical roles, moving into more strategic positions within the organisation.

Over time, he played a key role in major infrastructure projects, including designing Jersey’s Fibre to Home network and contributing to the development of the mobile network across the Channel Islands.

“These kinds of projects don’t just rely on technical knowledge,” he explains. “They require collaboration, problem-solving, and understanding how technology fits into people’s lives.”

Today, as Head of Product Innovation, Marcus focuses on developing new services and leading initiatives that shape the future of digital connectivity on the island. His progression into leadership reflects a broader skill set, one that combines technical understanding with communication, strategic thinking, and an ability to work across teams.

Looking back, Marcus sees Highlands College as instrumental in building both his technical foundation and his approach to learning. Throughout his career, he has maintained a strong belief in curiosity and collaboration, qualities he sees as essential for anyone looking to progress in the technology sector.

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Build strong technical skills but don’t stop there. Be open to opportunities that broaden your experience and help you see the bigger picture.

He emphasises that those who combine practical capability with a willingness to learn from others are best placed to step into leadership roles over time. Marcus's journey demonstrates how far a strong foundation, continuous learning, and identifying the right opportunities can take you.

Feeling inspired? Discover our apprenticeships in Construction and Engineering by visiting our course pages here. 

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