Datacom now has six virtual work experience simulations available online, with the launch of its latest “Partnering with AI in the workplace” course, designed to build confidence in critical, in-demand tech skills.
Hosted on Forage, Datacom’s free, open-access courses or job simulations are designed to spark interest in technology careers and provide some practical upskilling in critical areas and to date have reached over 42,000 enrolments since launching in 2023.
Datacom initially developed job simulations for four in-demand pathways – cloud, automation, cybersecurity and service desk – and is now expanding its offering with the launch of a new AI job simulation “Partnering with AI in the workplace”, designed to help learners build foundational skills in one of the fastest-growing areas of tech.
“We created these courses to break down barriers and show people that a career in tech is not only possible – it’s exciting, creative and full of opportunity,” says Laura Malcolm, Managing Director of Datacom Australia.
The courses have been developed for high school students, but enrolments show they appeal to a wide audience.
“We’ve seen high school students, university learners, career changers and people with no prior experience all benefit from the platform. It’s helping people build confidence and skills they can take into any role,” says Malcolm.
Datacom is also proving the courses can open doors and has hired a number of people, who have previously completed the virtual job simulations, into roles with the organisation including a CSR, End User Support role, Associate Developer, and 24x7 Data Centre Site Lead.
The new “Partnering with AI in the workplace” job simulation introduces learners to the practical skill of prompt engineering – the ability to guide AI tools effectively to solve problems, communicate clearly and work smarter. Learners also explore de-bugging techniques, helping them understand how to troubleshoot and refine AI outputs.
“AI is no longer a niche skill – it is being used as a tool across every industry,” Lou Compagnone, Director of AI at Datacom. “We designed this simulation to help people understand how to collaborate with AI, not just use it. It’s about learning how to ask the right questions, think critically and apply judgement – skills that employers are actively looking for.”
Malcolm says the “Partnering with AI in the workplace” job simulation is extremely timely given the insights shared in Datacom’s report The Productivity Pivot; AI, People and the Future of Work, which illustrates how critical AI skills are in boosting productivity and the fact that over 70% of people are want to improve their tech skills and believe AI will boost their efficiency.
Datacom’s virtual work experience platform is part of a broader commitment to developing local tech talent across Australia and New Zealand. The programme is delivered via Forage, a global virtual experience platform that has hosted more than 5 million student enrolments.
Among those learners who have completed Datacom’s job simulations, the average rating for these short online courses is 4.5 out of 5.
Participants who excel in the simulations may be invited to apply for Datacom’s early careers opportunities, creating a clear pathway from learning to employment.
“As Australia and New Zealand’s largest homegrown tech company, we’re proud to help grow the digital skills our communities need,” says Malcolm. “This platform is a stepping stone for anyone curious about tech – and we’re just getting started.”
Datacom’s job simulations on Forage:
Learn more about Datacom’s online job simulations: Datacom - Job Simulations - Forage
With over 42,000 enrolments in Datacom’s Forage virtual job simulations – some leading to real roles – the company is building a strong pipeline of future-ready talent. As AI transforms the way we work, Datacom pairs local expertise with global capability to help organisations adopt AI in a human-first, workforce-enhancing way, supporting everything from governance and proof-of-concept solutions to AI-powered tools and safe spaces for experimentation.
