Limerick has shown the strength of its innovation and collaboration by launching the first industry-education STEM alliance in Ireland at J&J VisionCare in the National Technology Park, Limerick.
The joint initiative between the Mid-West Regional Action Plan for Jobs, the Mid-West Regional Skills Forum, Limerick for Engineering and Limerick for IT creates a new pilot initiative with 19 post-primary schools under the patronage of the Limerick and Clare Education Training Board.
Speaking at the launch, Órlaith Borthwick, manager of the Mid-West Action Plan for Jobs said: “More than half of current job vacancies in the region are in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). While the region enjoys continued economic growth, with an additional 14,000 people in employment in the last two years alone, it is imperative that we ensure that future generations are aware and informed of the exciting and rewarding career opportunities that exist on their doorstep”.
The initiative, involving more than 30 companies across Limerick and Clare and 19 post-primary schools seeks to develop a local framework to deliver on national education policy.
Mid-West Regional Skills Manager Joe Leddin added: “Raising awareness and increasing familiarity between industry, educators and students derives gains, not only for individuals, but also the regional economy. We are excited about the potential of this partnership, as we seek to increase the future STEM talent pipeline”.
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