Full STEM ahead for virtual event

If you see it, you can be it! That’s the message from STEM South West as it launched its first event of the year this week.

Taking place on 13 January, the virtual event is aimed at students with an interest in the fields of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM). Its goal is to encourage Ireland’s future workforce to look at a career in these industries in the south west by demonstrating to them how exciting and interesting the subjects can be in the real world.

STEM South West is back for its second year and, despite the restrictions on live events, organisers say they have developed an evening-long programme that promises to deliver an invaluable insight into a sector that is as fascinating as it is important.

The free event is an industry-run initiative which is bringing together Ireland’s leading tech, pharma, science and engineering giants, alongside SMEs excelling in these sectors, to stage a virtual STEM exhibition aimed at inspiring young minds and informing them of the benefits of a future career in STEM.

The exhibition will feature demonstrations in virtual reality, robotics and astronomy, as well as talks from experts in the areas of construction, information technology, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, electronics, weather-forecasting, agri-technology, environmental engineering, and cybersecurity.

Speaking of the launch Shane Ruddle, Director of Engineering, Gilead, said: “Two years in and STEM South West continues to deliver for the students of Cork and Kerry by providing a platform to bridge the gap between students, the technology industry, academia and local government.

“The aim being that students see the future direction of industry with academia providing the relevant skillsets and local government creating the economic incentives. The event we have planned works perfectly in a virtual capacity and we have no doubt it will pack the same punch as our live event last year.”

STEM South West 2021 will include a host of technology demonstrations showcasing STEM products and systems in action, career talks, expert panels, Q&A sessions, competitions and spot prizes, and will provide an opportunity for attendees to connect with people who work in STEM on a daily basis. These STEM professionals will be on hand throughout the evening to provide insight into the many roles and pathways to a fulfilling career in STEM.

Mr Ruddle added: “Providing STEM education of the highest quality is essential if Ireland is to deliver on its ambitions to be a hub of technological creativity and an innovation leader. Innovation 2020, Ireland’s strategy for Research and Development, Science and Technology, highlights the critical importance of excellence in STEM Education to ensure the continuous development of a pipeline of talent to support both foreign direct investment and an active ecosystem for indigenous start-ups.”

Marguerite O’ Sullivan, Senior Engineering Strategy Leader and STEM South West Chairperson, spoke of the wealth of opportunities Ireland’s STEM sectors have to offer generations to come.

She explained: “With demand for STEM professionals and associate professionals in the EU expected to grow by approx. Eight per cent between now and 2025, much higher than the average three per cent growth forecast for all occupations, the opportunity for young people to enjoy a successful career in the Irish STEM sector has never looked brighter.”