Engineers Ireland has extended a partnership with Intel for its leading STEM-focused STEPS outreach programme.

The leading semiconductor manufacturer is continuing its partnership with the national body to collaborate on the STEPS programme.

STEPS aims to encourage future generations of engineers by supporting industry and community leaders to engage with primary and secondary school pupils through a number of hands-on workshops and programmes. 

The announcement comes ahead of STEPS Engineers Week. Taking place from Saturday 04 – Friday 10 March 2023, the Week encourages young people, their teachers and parents to explore the diverse and creative world of engineering and its potential as a career choice.  

Commenting on the partnership, Joe English, Intel Ireland Fab34 Factory Manager, said: "At Intel, we believe that young people are vital to solving global challenges. A solid maths and science foundation coupled with skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, and problem solving are crucial skills to be nurtured and developed. We are very pleased to continue our partnership with the Engineers Ireland STEPS programme, which aims to encourage young people to explore the diverse and exciting world of engineering. We look forward to working with Engineers Ireland to help encourage all young people to embrace STEM subjects and to pursue pathways that can lead to engineering.

-- Advertisement --

"At the core of Intel Ireland is a passion for volunteering and community involvement. We are committed to making a positive impact throughout our local communities and supporting the work of programmes such as STEPS."

STEPS is also funded by the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.

Damien Owens, Director General of Engineers Ireland, added: "Industry involvement is central to the success of our STEPS programme and we are very pleased to partner with Intel once again, to bring the fascinating world of engineering to life in communities throughout Ireland. Through our strategic partnership, we can further work together through the STEPS programme to help spark children’s imaginations about STEM and showcase the limitless opportunities a career in engineering can offer.

"As a knowledge-based economy and a small island nation, we have a reliance on the quality and quantity of our STEM graduates. Ireland needs a steady supply of engineers, with the necessary skillset, to boost local economies, create new jobs, facilitate sustainable development, and meet Government ambitions."