Welcome to Meet the Expert, a spin-off from our popular and successful Meet the Educator segment, where usually we speak with educators across the country to get the lowdown on what’s really happening in classrooms.

But this time, we’re turning the spotlight on industry professionals, innovators, and thought leaders who are shaping the future beyond the school walls.

This month, we’re turning our attention to someone known as ‘The A, B, I and the D’ – Abid Patel, a visionary IT leader and EdTech champion who’s spent over two decades driving digital transformation, equity, and innovation in education, both in the UK and around the globe.

So, sit back, relax and get ready to Meet the Expert – Abid Patel.

Rewind to 2004

We are all very aware that the educational landscape has changed in varying degrees in recent years, with some areas falling behind and others soaring ahead, with one of those being digital technology; and at the forefront of that transformation is Abid Patel, but where did it all begin for him?

“I started my career back in 2004. I did a degree in computer science & accounting, and one of the modules was about networking and I hated it. It was so boring, and I remember saying to someone “you wouldn’t see me dead managing a network”, and for the last 21 years? I’ve been managing a network; many of them. So I’m certainly on an unplanned career path, that’s for sure.”

Although unplanned, Abid has achieved great things in the field of EdTech when it comes to IT, with a real standout moment for Abid taking place in 2019.

“It would have to be when I was accepted onto the Google Certified Innovator program back in 2019”

The power of EdTech mentorship

When asked about his biggest inspirations and mentors in the EdTech space, Abid doesn’t point to a single individual — instead, he speaks passionately about the transformational power of community, especially through his experience as a Google Certified Innovator:

“The people it connects you with and the connections that I’ve had post-innovator have been utterly phenomenal. Before the program, I didn’t know anyone outside of my local area in IT and then suddenly after innovator, I had friends all around the world.”

While global connections and inspirational networks have shaped Abid’s vision, the day-to-day reality of working in EdTech – especially in schools – is far from glamorous. Behind the innovation lies a complex web of challenges that many rarely see. On this, Abid lifts the lid on the real challenges IT professionals face in education today.

“The industry has always been immensely challenging. I mean from day one it’s been a case of ‘we need you to perform miracles but we’ve got no money.’ I think schools are currently facing the most urgent need we’ve ever seen for IT overhauls. The problem is, most simply can’t afford to make those changes. We desperately need government intervention to help bring schools up to the standards required for modern, 21st-century learning environments.”

“It’s not just about budget – training is a big challenge too. EdTech moves so fast that even IT professionals find it hard to keep up. But that’s the reality we’re in.”

“I regularly recommend tools that simplify management, enhance security, and support creativity in the classroom. Chromebooks are a standout — they’re easy to manage, incredibly secure, and have never had a recorded ransomware incident, which is a huge plus for schools.”

“iPads are another versatile option, thanks to their portability and instant-on functionality, not to mention the rich ecosystem of educational apps available.”

“For platforms, Google Workspace is my go-to. It’s cloud-based, simple to use, and eliminates the need for complicated software installations. Canva is another favourite — it’s 100% free for education and now includes AI tools that even students of all ages can safely access.”

“In the AI space, tools like Google’s Gemini, NotebookLM, and Brisk Teaching are making a real impact. Gemini is now a core service in Google schools, making it secure for classroom use. NotebookLM’s podcast feature is a game changer and Brisk Teaching is a fantastic Chrome extension that helps reduce teacher workload by quickly generating resources like presentations and quizzes from online content.”

Accessibility through simplicity

With so many tools available, it’s not just about what technology can do – it’s about how easily everyone can use it. Abid’s approach to accessibility is grounded in practicality, ensuring both learners and educators can benefit without unnecessary barriers.

“For me, it’s always been about the skill, not the tool. The focus should be on helping students understand the core purpose behind what they’re doing — not just which platform they’re using.

“If you’re teaching someone how to write a letter, it shouldn’t matter whether they use Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or even pen and paper. What matters is that they know how to communicate effectively.

“At the end of the day, it’s about getting back to the basics — the technology is just the vehicle, not the destination.”

Shifting focus – from digital tools to the real world

When it comes to emerging trends in EdTech, Abid believes the real shift isn’t just about the tools themselves – it’s about how we use them to prepare students for life beyond the classroom. His focus is on creativity, collaboration, and vocational skills that truly matter in today’s world.

“I think we’re seeing a real shift toward developing life skills; creativity, collaboration, and communication – the kinds of things employers value. Technology should support foundational learning, not define it — and the best tools are the ones that help students discover skills they didn’t even know they had.”

Behind the screens – debunking the myths of EdTech work

Whilst EdTech often gets associated with cool digital tools and instant fixes, Abid earnestly clarifies the reality behind the scenes. From misunderstood “quick fixes” to the unseen, complex projects that keep schools running:

“The classic ‘turn it off and on again’ joke is actually true – and still my number one fix. But if that doesn’t work, it often signals a much bigger problem that can take serious time to solve. There’s also a big myth that we get to relax during school holidays. In reality, that’s when we work the hardest — tearing systems down, rebuilding networks, and upgrading infrastructure while buildings are empty.”

“And most of what we do? It’s completely invisible.”

“I once spent six years solving a single technical issue. No one noticed when it was fixed, but for me, it was a huge achievement. That’s the nature of EdTech — high-impact work that often goes unseen.”

Advice for schools looking to integrate technology effectively

Successfully embedding technology into learning doesn’t happen on its own, and according to Abid, it’s not about finding a perfect model, but building the right support network and having a clear vision.

Here’s his advice for schools and educators taking their first (or next) steps:

“No one’s doing EdTech perfectly… but thousands are doing it well. My biggest piece of advice is to connect with others. Network, ask questions, and learn from what others are already doing.

Internally, in your organisation, build strong digital champion teams who understand your school’s needs and vision. Know your pain points, define what you want technology to achieve, and reach out to others for guidance.”

“Honestly, I wouldn’t be where I am today without the power of networking. It’s been the single biggest driver of my growth and impact in EdTech.”

What’s next?

“The future of EdTech is already here”

Despite the challenges, Abid remains excited about what’s on the horizon. For him, the future of EdTech lies in tools that not only enhance learning but also inspire curiosity and engagement in completely new ways.

“One tool I’m really excited about is Notebook LM. I’ve been using it a lot — and the podcast feature is incredible.
Every time I demo it in a presentation, I ask the AI podcast hosts a question live, and the audience is stunned. Watching jaws drop never gets old. It’s a glimpse into just how powerful and interactive EdTech is becoming.”

CTRL + SHIFT + DEL

As we navigated through Abid’s career, he shared the important message with us that EdTech is far more than just screens and software. It’s a field driven by unseen work, unexpected turns, and, most importantly, the power of human connection.
From an accidental start in IT to becoming a global EdTech champion, Abid’s story is a testament to the fact that passion, community, and a focus on core skills can overcome even the biggest challenges – be it a lack of funding or the constant pressure of a rapidly evolving industry.

Abid’s journey reminds us that while the tools of EdTech are a powerful vehicle for change, the real destination is always about empowering learners and educators. As Abid puts it, “it’s about the skill, not the tool,” and in a world where technology moves at lightning speed, that foundational advice has never been more important.

If you’d like to learn more about Abid, click here to visit his website, or click here to connect with him on Linkedin.

If you, or someone you know would like to feature in our Meet the Educator / Meet the Expert series, click here!