We’re delighted to spotlight our Network Director, Maire Hunt, for the recognition she received at the recent Skillnet Ireland 25th Anniversary event. Maire’s dedication to advancing skill development across sectors has not only fuelled the growth of Technology Ireland DIGITAL Skillnet, but has also had a profound impact on the broader professional landscape in Ireland.

Digital Skillnet is thrilled to announce the official launch of DataSMART, which took place on Monday, November 18th, at Microsoft Dublin. This ambitious national initiative, developed in partnership with Microsoft and the Analytics Institute, aims to equip Irish professionals with vital data literacy skills to thrive in today’s digital economy.

DataSMART is designed for non-IT workers, offering a flexible 12-week programme that combines online tutorials with interactive workshops. Participants will gain key skills in Data Collection, Visualisation, Storytelling, Ethics, and Data Governance, culminating in the award of a DataSMART Foundation Certificate, accredited by Microsoft and the Analytics Institute.

Speaking at the launch, Maire Hunt, Network Director of Digital Skillnet, said: “DataSMART is the most ambitious national upskilling programme for data skills to date. Our goal is to train 10,000 professionals from all sectors over the next three years.”

Microsoft Ireland’s Head of Future Skilling, Kevin Marshall, added:
“As organisations embrace AI, data analysis skills are fundamental. Data SMART equips individuals with the knowledge needed for effective data navigation and decision-making, providing a solid foundation for future opportunities.”

Applications are now open, with part-funding available.

Learn more and apply here

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Irish businesses need major up-skilling and proper understanding of AI before they can unlock its value

More than 30 senior Irish business leaders have gathered in Dublin this week to discuss the opportunities and challenges posed by Generative AI technology and to assess how companies and organisations can unlock its value.

The GenAI Masterclass at Ibec headquarters, hosted by the Technology Ireland DIGITAL Skillnet and London Business School, includes discussions about the need for significant up-skilling of Ireland’s workforce at a level previously unexpected before the evolution of AI.

Senior executives from Ireland’s top companies, such as

• Pfizer,
• Zurich Insurance,
• FINEOS,
• Davy,
• Stats Perform
• Munich Re

have attended two days of talks have discussed areas such as business process re-engineering, understanding the principles of responsible AI and its ethical implications, the strategic alignment of AI, and business modernisation. Also discussed was the use of the many popular tools such as Co-pilot, ChatGPT,  Sonnet 3.5 and the underlying technology of LLMs, data science and risk mitigation.

Among the speakers at the event in Dublin which concludes today (Friday) is globally renowned AI expert Nicos Savva, London Business School, Professor of Management Science and Operations, who provides businesses and organisations  with a clear evidence-based understanding of Generative AI.

Technology Ireland DIGITAL Skillnet will be launching a suite of programmes to address the needs of different groups within companies from Business AI Users, Technical Leaders and Teams, Data Scientists and Strategic Leaders creating business ready applications. Get in touch to find out more: info@digitalskillnet.ie.