South East Technological University (SETU), in partnership with the Engineering the South East Cluster (ESE) and its automation subgroup, has launched the Autom8 Scholarship. This initiative aims to retain qualified engineering talent in the southeast region of Ireland.
A report from the Higher Education Authority (HEA) highlighted that 62% of engineering students from this area move away for their studies, adversely affecting the local workforce. The Autom8 Scholarship is designed to support students pursuing degrees in automation and robotics engineering while meeting the growing demand for skilled professionals in regional industries.
During the scholarship's launch, Stephen Rooney, Cluster Manager of Engineering the South East at SETU, emphasized its significance: “The Autom8 scholarship is set to enhance local career opportunities, reduce brain drain, and strengthen industry-academic collaboration. It aligns with SETU’s mission to foster regional economic growth by building a pipeline of skilled graduates who will drive technological innovation across the southeast.”
This scholarship represents a collaboration between SETU and leading manufacturing and automation companies, including:
Each participating company will contribute €2,000 annually towards a student's educational expenses. Students will also have opportunities for paid summer work, a third-year industrial placement, and mentorship from industry professionals.
The Autom8 Scholarship is open to students enrolling in the following programs at SETU:
Edmond Connolly, Manager of the South East Regional Skills Forum, encouraged students to apply, stating, “SETU and Engineering the South East urge interested students to seize this opportunity to advance their careers in automation engineering while benefiting from the support of a thriving local industry.”
For more information regarding the scholarship and the application process, interested students can visit the SETU website or contact the university's admissions office.