Category: Regional Skills

The Cyber Security apprenticeship program offered by UL is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the rapidly evolving field of cybersecurity. The program is a combination of classroom instruction and on-the-job training, where apprentices work alongside experienced cybersecurity professionals to gain hands-on experience. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including network security, vulnerability assessments, threat management, and incident response. Apprentices also learn about the legal and ethical aspects of cybersecurity, as well as the importance of effective communication and teamwork. Upon completion of the program, apprentices will be well-prepared to pursue a career in cybersecurity and contribute to the overall safety and security of organizations in various industries.

UL and the Digital Midwest Network collaborated on the Cyber Security apprenticeship by combining their expertise and resources in the field of cybersecurity. UL provided their knowledge and experience in defining the necessary skills, knowledge, and behaviors required for a successful career in cybersecurity. Meanwhile, the Digital Midwest Network brought in their industry expertise in building and managing digital systems in the region. Together, they developed a comprehensive apprenticeship program that offers a unique learning experience for individuals looking to start a career in cybersecurity. The program includes on-the-job training, classroom instruction, and mentorship, providing apprentices with the skills and knowledge they need to become successful cybersecurity professionals.

Apprenticeships are crucial in developing digital skills for several reasons. They provide a practical and hands-on approach to learning, which is essential for mastering digital skills. Apprenticeships allow individuals to work alongside experienced professionals and gain on-the-job training, which is often more effective than traditional classroom learning.

Additionally, apprenticeships provide a pathway for individuals to enter the digital workforce without necessarily having a college degree. This is particularly important for those who may not have had access to higher education or who are looking for a career change. Apprenticeships offer an opportunity to learn new skills and gain practical experience, which can lead to well-paid and fulfilling careers in the digital industry.

Finally, apprenticeships are important for addressing the digital skills gap, which is a growing concern for many industries. By training and developing a new generation of digital professionals, apprenticeships can help to bridge this gap and ensure that businesses have the skilled workforce they need to succeed in the digital age.

The Women in Tech initiative is run by the Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board (ETB). It aims to encourage and support women to pursue careers in the technology industry. The initiative offers a range of programs, workshops, and events to help women develop their skills and knowledge in technology, and to connect with other women in the industry. The Women in Tech initiative is an important step towards creating a more diverse and inclusive tech industry.

The programme is unique to the region and offers women a pathway into a career in the tech sector. It combines a 12-month online Diploma in Full-Stack Software Development with a 3-month work placement in the industry. The initiative is backed by Digital Mid West, who acknowledge the importance of a local talent pipeline and the drive to improve female representation in the sector.

Women in Tech is helping businesses in the region in many ways. Firstly, it is providing a platform for women to connect, share knowledge and experiences, and build a community of support. This community can then serve as a talent pool for businesses looking to hire diverse and skilled professionals. Additionally, Women in Tech is promoting gender diversity and equality in the workplace, which has been shown to improve company culture, increase productivity and innovation, and lead to better business outcomes. Finally, Women in Tech is also providing training and development opportunities for women, which can help them build their skills and advance their careers within the tech industry.

The Midwest Skills Network drives training and employment opportunities for women in tech and helps them to develop new skills. It also provides networking opportunities, mentoring, and support to women in the tech industry in the Midwest region. Additionally, the network works with businesses and educational institutions to ensure that women are represented in tech-related fields and have access to resources that can help them succeed.

Read more about the initiative and the graduation ceremony.

The Arts to Industry initiative led by the Digital Midwest is a program that aims to bridge the gap between the arts and technology industries. By fostering collaboration and innovation between artists, creatives, and tech professionals, the initiative seeks to drive economic growth and create new opportunities for those involved. Through workshops, events, and other programming, Arts to Industry encourages participants to explore new ideas and approaches to problem-solving, while also promoting the value of creativity in the digital age.

Arts graduates expanding into engineering roles can bring a fresh perspective to the field. Their training in critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity can be applied to engineering projects in unique and innovative ways. Additionally, having a diverse team with a range of educational backgrounds can lead to more well-rounded and effective solutions. Furthermore, the job market for engineers is growing, and expanding into this field can provide new opportunities for arts graduates to apply their skills and find fulfilling careers.