© Paul Moore PhotographyIreland’s Midlands is creating the nation’s first regional STEM ecosystem—uniting local government, educators, industry, and communities to equip the next generation for the future of work.
A REGION UNITED BY STEM
The Midlands Region—comprising Laois, Longford, Offaly, and Westmeath—is leading Ireland’s STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) agenda through an ambitious and collaborative approach. As the country’s first region to develop a dedicated STEM ecosystem, it brings together local government, industry, education providers, and community organisations to cultivate skills that align with the evolving needs of the labour market. This coordinated effort is rooted in the belief that regional resilience and innovation go hand in hand.
A JUST TRANSITION, POWERED BY EDUCATION
Designated as an EU Just Transition Region, the Midlands is tackling structural challenges by forming a “triple helix” of cooperation—connecting enterprise, education, and public stakeholders through the Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan and Midlands ICT Network. This forward-thinking model ensures that regional development is inclusive, future-focused, and built on sustainable skills.
FLAGSHIP INITIATIVES WITH LASTING IMPACT
The region’s commitment to STEM comes to life through dynamic, hands-on programmes that have already reached thousands of students. VEX Robotics has seen three Midlands teams qualify for the World Finals, while the STEM Passport for Inclusion provides a Level 6 qualification and a direct pathway to STEM university courses. The Dream Big programme, delivered in partnership with 16 manufacturing businesses, offers a week-long immersion into real-world STEM careers for young people across the region. Together, these initiatives show how regional collaboration can unlock opportunity, ignite ambition, and inspire the next generation of innovators—setting a powerful example for other regions to follow.
