Meet Squad UK

The 3D Digital Game Artist draws, models, and animates in different styles depending on the type of game, and is responsible for every aspect, from taking a designer’s brief to using creative, technical, and specialist skills to deliver a marketable game. The challenge is to take a concept and transform it into a 3D mesh which harnesses a wide range of skill sets from good geometry decisions to symmetry and texture.

The artist needs a full understanding of concept art skills and animation as well as the ability to create and animate game characters. The gaming sector continues to experience tremendous growth with the best artists able to lead art teams that push the boundaries on creativity, using the latest technology to design captivating animated experiences.

One of the newest and fastest-growing branches of engineering, Additive Manufacturing is more commonly known as 3D printing.

Traditional manufacturing methods, such as milling and turning, cut away material to create the desired end product. In Additive Manufacturing, layers are added in succession to achieve the same result.

Additive Manufacturing can be a more agile way to create strong and complex objects, such as prototypes, for industry and designers, and with less waste.

Working in Addictive Manufacturing requires a new approach to design and manufacturing. This includes a thorough understanding of the equipment for 3D printing and scanning, and the characteristics of the materials used, along with applied mathematics, geometry, and Computer Aided Design and Engineering (CAD and CAE). An understanding and imagination for the potential future uses of this technology is essential.

A high level of expertise is needed to make sure that aircraft are serviced to rigorous quality and safety standards. An aircraft maintenance technician may specialize in vehicles like helicopters, UAVs (Unmanned Aeronautical Vehicles), or tilt wing aircraft.

The skill calls for technical troubleshooting, repairing, and maintenance of all types of aircraft. As part of a growing and mobile global industry that is increasingly venturing into space, the aircraft maintenance technician will find that the sky is no longer the limit.

When a vehicle has been involved in a collision, it is the job of the autobody repairer to restore it to factory standards and get it back on the road. Every accident is different, so the repairer must be familiar with often-complex mechanical components and how they work.

The autobody repairer needs professional expertise to diagnose the damage to the vehicle and then use a variety of machinery and tools, including welding skills, to make the repair. You need a good knowledge of the range of metals, composites, and plastics used in the manufacture of vehicles in order to restore them to a roadworthy condition.

Beauty Therapy work includes a variety of skills from nail and skin care to body massage and make-up expertise.

Beauty therapists work in close contact with their clients and that relationship is at the heart of the job. In addition to demonstrating a wide range of beauty treatment the role also has a therapeutic element which can help the client’s sense of well-being and self-esteem.

The beauty business is subject to changes in styles and trends so it is important to keep in touch with the latest developments in the industry.

Bricklaying is a skill that can be said to be the building block of much of our world. The bricklayer works on everything from our homes to commercial buildings and the walls that surround them.

It is an occupation that requires an ability to follow building design plans precisely through measuring and then constructing in strict accordance with the architect’s plans and local government regulations. It is equally important to execute those plans with high quality professional bricklaying skills.

Craftsmanship is at the heart of cabinetmaking. In an age of mass production the cabinetmaker produces lasting work designed to be appreciated for many generations. Cabinetmakers must combine creativity and innovation with precision and accuracy and demonstrate a high appreciation of how to use the beauty of wood to best effect.

Vehicles scratched, dented, or damaged in accidents must be returned to the road in showroom condition, with the repaired areas exactly matching the rest of the exterior colour and quality. It could be said that the greatest tribute to a good car painter is when they have finished you cannot see what they have done.

Car painters need to demonstrate great skills in matching paints with the original colour, or on occasion repainting the vehicle in a completely new colour. They must also apply these paints, undercoats and sealants in an environmentally safe and healthy work environment.

Laboratory chemical analysts study substances to determine their chemical composition for research or to develop products. Chemical analysis is necessary to ensure the properties of raw materials, the intermediate stages of the technological processes, and the finished products comply with current standards.

Laboratory chemical analysts use various tools and methods to analyse natural and synthetic materials, as well as performing qualitative and quantitative tests using modern chemical and physico-chemical analytical methods. They need to be well-versed in chemistry and must have adequate knowledge of biology and physics. Critical thinking, time management, decision making, and problem-solving skills are also necessary for this career. Laboratory chemical analysts should be able to act logically and systematically, complying with sanitary and hygienic requirements and occupational safety and health standards.

Laboratory chemical analysts work in the chemical laboratories of quality-control departments, research and development departments, or in environmental departments in plants in chemical, petrochemical and pharmaceutical industries. Greater interest in environmental issues, such as pollution control, clean energy, and sustainability, are expected to increase the demand for chemistry research and development.

Cloud computing has become a key part of corporate digital transformation strategy as companies migrate their physical IT activities, such as file storage and on-site servers, into a virtual environment.

Many of the appliances and objects we use every day depend on Computer Numeric Control (CNC) Milling. It is a highly sophisticated piece of machinery that creates components using precise cutting tools.

The machinist must be able to understand complex technical drawings, and have knowledge and experience of computer skills and software in order to become a skilled machine operator with an understanding of how various metals behave during the cutting process.

Preparing delicious meals may be the most obvious part of the work of a professional chef, but the job requires much more.

Chefs have to prepare budgets, calculate profit margins, control and order stock, and keep on top of the latest food trends such as organic and vegetarian cuisine and healthy eating regimes.

Communicating well with a team is also part of the high pressure environment in a successful kitchen, while good hygiene is essential for the health and safety of customers and fellow workers.

Information security analysts work to protect an organization’s computer systems networks, to prevent hackers from accessing and/or stealing sensitive information and data. They are often employed by IT service providers, banking and financial services, government agencies and healthcare companies.

The role typically involves installing firewalls and data encryption software to protect confidential information. Analysts monitor their organization’s network for security breaches and investigate any violations. They may also help design and execute a organisation’s disaster recovery plan — the steps and procedures to restore IT systems and networks after an attack.

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a way to create and manage information about a project throughout its construction. It provides a complete digital model of the project for all those involved, allowing them to update and improve at key stages.

BIM uses a wide range of software technology through Computer Aided Design (CAD). The process is highly collaborated, allowing everyone from architects and engineers to contractors to work together better, creating buildings with a longer lifespan, and better suited for their purpose.

BIM involves a thorough understanding of the technologies required, including software, cloud computing and IT systems, as well as industry terminology and international standards.

An ability to work collaboratively is essential, along with strong interpersonal skills for working with other project members and clients. Work must meet the highest standards of accuracy and clarity for all potential users.

Electricians are needed wherever there is electricity. They can expect to work in homes, offices, factories, and even farms, carrying out maintenance and repairs, and sometimes designing and installing new systems.

Given the risks associated with electricity, offering a safe and reliable service to customers is paramount. Electricians need to have an intimate knowledge of the latest safety standards and work to a strict code of safety conduct.

Variety is the key to a successful career in electronics. Technicians and engineers are needed to operate specialist equipment in workplaces that will range from aerospace and the armed forces to the entertainment industry, robotics, education, health, and telecommunications.

Technicians and engineers will need to understand detailed specifications and international quality standards and keep abreast of the latest developments in technology.

Graphic Design Technology can employ a variety of specialists within a single team, which might include a graphic designer, graphic artist, prepress operator, typographer, typesetter, type designer, image manipulation specialist, illustrator, art director, production manager, digital printer, information designer, publisher, or packaging specialist.

They work closely with clients from the research and planning stage, through all aspects of the production and printing process, to create a strong visual identity.

A visit to the hairdresser can be much more than a quick trim. It can involve styling, colouring, and using special treatments. You work closely with your clients and it’s important to have good people and communication skills in addition to a full range of professional hairdressing skills.

The hairdresser is expected to understand different types of hair, to interpret the client’s wishes, and work safely with the products involved.

A health and social care practitioner delivers health support from initial care to rehabilitation. Through building a close relationship with medical practitioners they are able to support patients and their families to ensure their holistic care needs are met.

Health and social care practitioners will have strong social skills as they work extensively with patients. They will also need a well developed emotional intelligence to handle some of the more challenging patients and the distress of bereavement.

When we talk about Industry 4.0, we mean the impact information and communication technologies (ICT) are having on real-time optimization and networking for efficient automation and production. This is sometimes also called the “fourth industrial revolution”.

It is the role of the Digital Production Systems Technician to implement Industry 4.0 in businesses, designing and implementing systems, introducing both software and hardware, and supporting programmes, especially cybersecurity.

A Digital Production Systems Technician must be continually aware of changes and recognize advances in technology means they must be continually learning.

They must understand the business case for implementing Industry 4.0 and design systems accordingly. They should combine strong technical knowledge with an eye on future industry developments, while being constantly aware of risk and security.

For the IT Network Systems Administrator, the work environment can range from data centres to network operations centres, internet service providers and data centres like climate-controlled server rooms. The ability to communicate, problem solve, and research and understand the latest industry developments is paramount.

Their work involves providing a wide range of services, including user support, design, troubleshooting, and installing, configuring and updating both operating systems and network devices.

Working from drawings, the joiner’s task is to measure and cut joints then assemble, install, and finish to a high standard.

They are mostly workshop based, but some projects will take place on building sites or in the homes of customers.

Joinery is closely associated with cabinetmaking and carpentry, and other areas of the construction industry.

Freight Forwarding is a specialist skill organising shipments of raw supplies or finished goods from the supplier or manufacturer to the point of distribution or final market place.

Computer aided design (CAD) uses specialist software to create two and three dimensional images and animations of projects both in manufacturing and for use in advertising and technical manuals.

CAD can convey many types of information, including dimensions, types of material, and tolerances and is essential in offering solutions to both engineering and manufacturing problems.

By producing photorealistic animations and videos, it can simulate how a design will actually function in the real world.

Mechatronics includes mechanics, pneumatics, electronically controlled systems, programming, and robotics and systems development.

It is the job of the mechatronics technician to combine these areas to design, build, maintain, and repair automated equipment, and programme equipment control systems.

As well as factory assembly lines, mechatronics is used in everything from bottling machines to supermarket cash till and belt assemblies.

The services of the painter and decorator are needed everywhere from homes to public buildings, factories, and offices.

Painters and decorators can expect to offer professional advice on colours and designs and employ a wide range of finishing skills.

Painting and decorating is a creative job that requires a sense of design as well as the core skills of painting, decorative coatings, and gilding.

We all depend on plumbing and heating technicians for hot and cold fresh running water in our homes and offices and for staying warm in cold weather.

Plumbing and heating technicians need to be able to plan and design systems, then install and test them. On occasion they will also need to diagnose faults and make repairs.

The plumbing and heating technician works both indoors and outdoors, in homes, and in commercial projects as a key part of the construction industry.

The refrigeration and air conditioning engineer is responsible for the design, installation, maintenance, and repair of both systems.

Their work involves domestic and commercial settings, as well as including the construction and transportation sectors, for example in ships and trucks.

Finding solutions to issues involving climate and the environment are the biggest issues for engineers in the refrigeration and air conditioning industry.

It is the role of a Renewable Energy Technician to ensure the equipment for collecting, generating, or distributing power from their sources is properly maintained and operates efficiently.

A Renewable Energy Technician can expect to work both indoors and outdoors and in conditions that are often challenging, including extremes of heat and cold, at heights, and in remote locations.

Problem-solving skills are essential, along with a detailed knowledge of the different technologies and the tools needed to work on them. Physical strength is needed to lift heavy equipment and operate power tools while following health and safety rules.

For a memorable meal the quality of the service is something that guests often remember as much as the food and drink served.

That means that restaurant servers must show extensive knowledge of all types of cuisine and dishes, especially the ingredients and cooking style of the dishes on an a la carte menu. They will need to know and understand the methods of preparation and serving, along with the tools used.

Regardless of whether it is a self-service cafeteria or a five star hotel restaurant good manners, a smart appearance, and impeccable personal hygiene are equally essential.

Robot integrators must be able to assess the best type of robot for a particular task, which might include lifting, loading and unloading, and welding, and then deciding where to place them.

Other considerations include managing the flow of parts, developing and installing suitable programming, and the safety of the human workforce around them.

Information to follow

Working with web technologies is a key skill in a world that increasingly places the web at the heart of a modern platform. It is also one of the most complex and diverse of all skills.

Web designers and developers will first establish a professional relationship with clients to develop a deep understanding of the requirements for their website. Strong design and communication skills, coupled with a grasp of target audiences, markets, and trends are all essential. During the development process, web designers and developers create databases, build programmes, as well as test and debug websites.

Welders work with different metals to cut and join everything from steel beams to pipes, plates, and pressurized vessels.

Being able to operate the various types of welding equipment both safely and accurately is of the highest importance. This can include the latest types of submerged arc, plasma arc, stud welding, and laser welding.

Welders need to prepare and finish joints in a wide ranges of industries and locations, from a factory workbench or construction site to a power station or ship at sea.