it@cork Skillnet rebrands

At the announcement of the rebrand of its Skillnet Business Network as Tech Industry Alliance Skillnet, were Laura Hughes, network promoter/Tech Industry Alliance Skillnet (TIAS); John Drury, programme manager TIAS; Annette Coburn, network manager TIAS; Gerry Murphy, chairperson TIAS and Juliette Crowley, COO TIAS. (Picture: Gerard McCarthy)

it@cork Skillnet, one of 70 Skillnet Ireland Business Networks nationwide, has this week announced a rebrand of its Skillnet Business Network as Tech Industry Alliance Skillnet.

Collaborating with businesses, the network provides guidance for every aspect of talent development, including research, programme design, acquisition, funding and evaluation, covering all IT domains and business and leadership functions. It serves a rapidly growing network of 250 ambitious technology producing and technology enabled businesses throughout the South-West.

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS

Skillnet Ireland is the national talent development agency of the Government of Ireland, responsible for advancing the competitiveness, productivity, and innovation of Irish businesses through enterprise-led talent development.

Across 2022, Skillnet Ireland delivered upskilling and training programmes, worth €70.2 million, to almost 25,000 businesses and over 92,000 workers through its 70 Skillnet Business Networks across most sectors and all regions in Ireland.

The tech sector in the South-West plays a pivotal role in the region’s economy, representing over 1,500 ICT companies and 19,000 employees, accounting for 14% of all ICT employees in Ireland (CSO 2020).

The Tech Industry Alliance Skillnet rebrand marks a significant milestone for the Skillnet Business Network which is celebrating 10 years supporting companies in the region. During this period, the network has supported hundreds of companies and thousands of individuals to up and cross skill across a wide portfolio of tech capabilities.

The network has grown dramatically over the period and with this new identity, is looking forward to continued growth, while helping companies achieve their talent development and management strategies and objectives.

UPSKILLING

Annette Coburn, Network Manager of Tech Industry Alliance Skillnet, said the network is committed to addressing the technology skills needs of Tech businesses operating in the region.

“Since the ending of the Covid-19 pandemic we have seen very high and accelerated demand for upskilling and reskilling. The portfolio of tech training that we support is broadening in line with the rapid changes across the technology landscape. This encompasses both traditional tech skills as well as the new areas such as Generative AI, next generation Automation using Machine-learning tools, etc.

“Unlocking available talent is a key priority for the companies we support. We invite everyone to visit our new website – www.techiaskillnet.ie to explore the ways we can help companies in the South-West,” she said.