Computing Students Rewarded with Visit to Google in London

Outstanding Computing students from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) were recognised for their achievements with an educational visit to Google’s London office in King’s Cross.

The trip was organised by Computing Lecturer James Williams in partnership with Dafydd Moore, Chief Information Officer at Superdry, and Leah Shergold, Google Cloud Account Executive. Fourteen students attended, including winners of the Year 2 Changemakers Innovation Competition, Year 3 Emerging Trends Competition, and students recognised for exceptional final-year projects.

Joining the students were UWTSD lecturers Ewa Kazimierska, Gaynor Thomas, and Mark Huntly, alongside industry representatives from Fujitsu, whose support has been an important part of the Changemakers Innovation module.

During the visit, students heard from Neil Rutherfoord, Google Cloud Architect, and Dafydd Moore, who shared insights into careers in technology, digital transformation, and the rapidly evolving impact of artificial intelligence.

A key focus of the discussions was how AI is already transforming the way organisations operate. The speakers explored how emerging AI technologies are helping businesses improve productivity, automate routine tasks, unlock new insights from data, and accelerate innovation across a wide range of industries. They also discussed the opportunities AI is creating for future graduates, highlighting the growing demand for professionals who can combine technical skills with creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

Students were encouraged to view AI as a powerful tool that can enhance human capabilities and create new career opportunities. The importance of adaptability, continuous learning and curiosity was emphasised as technology continues to evolve at pace.

A highlight of the day was hearing from Dafydd, a graduate of UWTSD’s School of Applied Computing, who reflected on how the University’s focus on practical, industry-focused learning helped shape his career. Drawing on his experience working with companies including Dyson and Superdry, he encouraged students to embrace change, build strong professional networks, and remain open to new opportunities throughout their careers.

The visit gave students a behind-the-scenes look at Google’s innovative working environment, collaborative open spaces, and workplace culture.

Adding to the experience, on their journey to Google, the group spotted a Waymo testing autonomous vehicle travelling through London. As one of the most visible real-world applications of advanced AI technology, it provided a fitting example of many of the themes discussed throughout the day.

The visit celebrated student achievement while highlighting UWTSD’s commitment to connecting students with industry leaders and providing opportunities that enhance learning beyond the classroom.

James Williams, Senior Lecturer in Computing, UWTSD said: “Artificial intelligence is transforming industries at an unprecedented pace, so giving students the opportunity to engage directly with experts from Google Cloud and industry leaders such as Dafydd Moore was incredibly valuable. Experiences like this help bridge the gap between academic study and the real-world challenges and opportunities our graduates will encounter in their careers.”
 

UWTSD would like to thank Google Cloud’s Leah Shergold and Neil Rutherfoord, Dafydd Moore, and industry partners at Fujitsu, David Jones, and Geraint Williams, for helping create a valuable and memorable experience for students.

Further Information

Rebecca Davies

Executive Press and Media Relations Officer    
Corporate Communications and PR    
Email: rebecca.davies@uwtsd.ac.uk    
Phone: 07384 467071