Why STEM matters

Here are a couple of dates for your diary for those working in the technology sector.

An Enterprise Ireland Pilot Competitive Feasibility Fund worth E200,000 aimed at stimulating start ups and creating jobs in the South East, has been launched.

The closing date for applications is 30th January 2012, and it is expected that the first awards will be made shortly after that.

Funding of up to E25,000 will be provided to start-up companies with job-creating potential in the South East region. Companies in the ICT, industrial and food sectors based in Waterford, Wexford, Carlow, Kilkenny and South Tipperary will be eligible to apply.

The purpose of the Pilot Competitive Feasibility Fund for the South East Region is to accelerate the growth of start-up companies that have the capability to succeed in global markets.

A little later in the year is the Atlantic Conference 2012 on March 29^th.  The conference provides a forum for all those involved in education and enterprise to learn about the impact of Science Technology Engineering and Maths (STEM)  education in our economy and society.

In particular the conference provides a forum in which participants can benefit from international best practice and this year is no exception.

Speakers at this year’s conference include Ward van Duffel, managing director of LEGO Education Europe.

Leena Gade, Audi Sport’s chief Race Engineer is no stranger to problem solving and creative thinking. The Aerospace Engineering Graduate become the first female engineer in 2011 to have a car win the legendary Le Mans 24 Hour Race. She will be speaking at the conference about how an early love of engineering and cars led her to a career with Audi Sports and her master-minding her car’s win at one of the most gruelling races in the history of Le Mans..

The Conference Keynote Speaker is Carol Lynn Parente, executive producer of Sesame Street. Everyone’s favourite children’s show has a record 138 Emmy Awards and since 2011 it has focussed much of its educational work on creating a love of STEM subjects in young children.

www.eventelephant.com/atlanticconference2012