The University of Limerick recently hosted an industry placement networking event aimed at bringing together early stage companies and mature students seeking industrial placement opportunities.

Over 15 companies and 30students took part in the ‘Speed-dating for Industrial Placement’ event which took place at the Nexus Innovation Centre and involved 3 minute one to one interactions between companies and candidates. 

Aidan Morris, VP Strategy & Business Development, Imosphere Ltd. commented, “I found the process to be very effective and as a result we placed three very qualified students on three projects. We will happily participate in the next round based on the effective approach along with the quality of he graduates looking for placements”.

The students who took part were completing the RED Programme (Re-Employment & skills Development) which is funded by ULearning Skillnet. This programme requires students to complete a period of Industrial Placement, which is project based.  All students are unemployed and are participants in the Government’s Springboard initiative.  This is a one-year level 8 or 9 Certificate or Specialist Diploma from the University of Limerick’s Faculty of Science and Engineering.  

Courses vary from Lean and Six Sigma to Operations Management and Computer Engineering. Ronan O’Boyle, Network Manager for ULearning Skillnet, said, “This type of event provides an opportunity for students to engage with companies in need of actual project work. We believe it’s a great vehicle for those aiming to re-skill and to move back into the workforce while also teaching them important skills in how to make a strong first impression with employers”