The STEM sector can foster continued growth and unlock new opportunities in the South West region. Achieving this requires strong collaboration between national and local government, the education sector and the business community. This was the key message from the STEM South West Leaders Dialogue session, held in the Muckross Park Hotel, earlier this month.
Amid a shifting global economic and political landscape, and recent survey results showing concerns about skilled workers, competitiveness, and housing, the panel agreed that stronger collaboration is essential for future growth. This includes working together to remove barriers on infrastructure and engineering projects that help STEM organisations grow and innovate in the South West region.
The panel discussion highlighted the many opportunities that exist in the region, which echoed the views of the STEM South West membership, including leaders of STEM companies in Kerry and Cork, national and local government and educational institutions. Nurturing and building a strong STEM talent pipeline requires strategic and forward-looking planning.
STEM South West ensures the inclusion of all students and potential workers, with creative solutions ranging from grassroots initiatives like the Adopt a School programme and the STEM South West Annual Careers Expo. These initiatives, that encourage alternative pathways to STEM careers, including apprenticeships, the upskilling and retraining of existing workers, whose jobs may evolve due to the advancements in AI and emerging technologies.
STEM South West is a not-for-profit, industry-led cluster aimed at growing the South West’s STEM capacity.
Led by Mary Good, Managing Director of Advanced Medical Services (AMS) and Chair of STEM South West, the conversation touched on the Minister’s own experience of the education system, of learning with dyslexia and its impact on his formative years.
Minister Michael Healy-Rae said, “It is key that all young people are given the full opportunity to reach gainful, suitable employment. From electricians to engineers, we need to educate young people on the opportunities available to them. Recognition of all skills and talents is important as we look to develop the South West region.”
Speaking after the event, Ms. Good concluded,
“We asked members and both local and national government representatives how the South West can better position itself for the opportunities for the sector. The response was clear: ongoing collaboration across all sectors is key. In support of this, I am issuing an open invitation to all Kerry and Cork schools and STEM companies to engage in our current Adopt a School initiative and our upcoming Expo on November 20th. This year, the Expo will be an all-day event, facilitating schools and families travelling greater distances across Kerry and Cork.”
The event concluded with questions from the audience, which emphasised the need to include calls for greater recognition for SMEs who provide significant employment in the region, supported by their trade with FDI companies and increased support for indigenous STEM companies.
