Category: #Microsoft

Microsoft Ireland Work Trend Index 2025:

New insights from Microsoft Ireland reveal Ireland’s workforce is navigating a period of transformation. The Microsoft Ireland Work Trend Index 2025 is based on a nationally representative survey of 1,000 Irish workers, conducted annually as part of a general population study, ensuring a demographic balance year-on-year. The results show that AI is emerging as a career catalyst, while job turnover hits a record  38%, according to the respondents who took part in the survey, while workplace satisfaction trends marginally downward.

With AI adoption up 27% year-on-year, 41% of workers say it helps them work smarter. Half (50%) believe AI skills are critically important to remain competitive in the job market, while 54% say having these skills will broaden their job opportunities. Additionally, 40% believe knowing how to use AI at work will help them get promoted faster, and 34% say AI has made them consider other career paths. Yet, this optimism is tempered by uneven access and training gaps, with over half of workers calling for structured or employer-led AI training to help speed adoption.

A Workforce in Flux and Under Pressure – Employees call for Balance

Despite 57% of workers seeing opportunities for growth within their current roles, Ireland’s labour market is in motion. Based on the survey results, turnover has surged from 19% in 2023 to 38% in 2025, positioning Ireland as a market with significant talent volatility. This churn underscores the importance of investing in retention strategies that empower employees to thrive by supporting their well-being, balance, and growth, which in turn help organisations to remain resilient in a rapidly changing workplace.

Ireland’s workforce trends align with global insights that highlight how emotional strains are compounded by the realities of today’s workday, where digital overload and constant interruptions challenge even the most flexible environments. Linking this workforce feedback to Microsoft’s global telemetry, a picture emerges showing the modern workday is increasingly distracted. Workers are interrupted every two minutes or 275 times per day, receive 117 emails daily, and spend 57% of meetings in unscheduled sessions.

AI Eases Employee Strain – But Wider Access and Training is Required

AI offers a practical remedy, helping employees manage their workload, reduce stress, and focus on higher-value tasks. It is increasingly seen as a solution to workplace pressure, with 91% of users in Ireland saying it improves the quality of their work. Additionally, 34% of workers say AI has made them reconsider their career path, highlighting its influence on professional ambition and future career opportunities.

However, AI use remains uneven:

·                Board-level executives: 91% use AI at work

·                Non-managers: Only 39% use AI at work (versus 66% of managers)

·                Gender imbalance: 63% of men versus 47% of women use AI at work

·                Generational usage: 55% of Gen Z (18-24) use AI at work, compared with 62% of younger millennials (25–34), 59% of older millennials (35–44), 47% of Gen X (45-54), and 48% of Boomers (55-64).

These disparities raise concerns about who has access to AI tools and benefits from them, and who risks being left behind. Lower engagement with AI could limit opportunities for efficiency and relief from routine tasks, potentially exacerbating stress levels for employees under pressure.

It’s perhaps no surprise, therefore, that over half (61%) of Irish workers are calling for structured AI training, saying their employer could support adoption by offering more training either in-house or through external providers, and 47% believe they should be given more time to research AI independently.

Commenting on the alignment between Irish trends and the broader global perspective, Microsoft Ireland General Manager, Catherine Doyle said: “Ireland is at a turning point. As AI transforms the world of work, Irish employees and employers are navigating rapid change and new opportunities. The message from workers is urgent and clear: they want the tools, support and skills to adapt. Organisations that embrace AI and invest in inclusive training will be best placed to lead in productivity, innovation, and resilience.

“As leaders, we must respond with empathy and action, making AI training accessible to all workers, at every level, so everyone can enjoy the many benefits and productivity gains that this transformative technology offers. At Microsoft Ireland, we’re committed to ensuring no one is left behind. Through Skill Up Ireland, our education and training programme, we’re widening access to AI skills for all. Now is the time to act to support equal access in the AI era, so together we can unlock new opportunities for our workforce and our economy.”

Microsoft Ireland’s annual charity cycle raises over €296,000 for LauraLynn

Building on a decade long legacy of giving and community, Microsoft Ireland employees have once again completed their annual charity cycle along the Wild Atlantic Way, raising over €296,000 this year for LauraLynn, Ireland’s only children’s hospice.

Now in its 11th year, the annual fundraising challenge brought together 105 cyclists and support crew who over the course of three days undertook a 360-kilometre journey from Ballina, Co. Mayo, to Letterkenny, Co. Donegal.

Since its launch in 2014 with just 10 participants, the Microsoft Ireland annual charity cycle has raised over €1.4 million for LauraLynn. The vital funds help to support LauraLynn’s work in providing palliative care and support to children with life-limiting conditions and their families. This includes expanding the reach of services LauraLynn offers, including symptom management, planned short breaks, emergency and end-of-life care, crisis care and bereavement support.

In more recent years, this expansion has seen LauraLynn’s hospice care being provided to children and their families in their own home. LauraLynn has added two new community teams in Cork and Galway, and it has been able to extend the reach of the Dublin team throughout the greater Leinster region. In 2024 LauraLynn provided 2,471 community visits across the country.

For this last cycle the Microsoft team set out with an ambitious goal of raising €100,000 but proudly exceeded it due to the team’s deep commitment to the hundreds of families who benefit from LauraLynn’s services.

James O’Connor, Microsoft Ireland Site Leader, and Corporate Vice President of Microsoft Global Operations Service Centre said: “The Microsoft Ireland team and giving spirit consistently go above and beyond for LauraLynn, one of our closest neighbours to our campus in Leopardstown, and this year has been no exception. Our team of cyclists and volunteers have cycled more than 4,400kms over the past 11 years, raising over €1.4m over that period. The annual cycle is Microsoft’s way of recognising the vital work undertaken by this very special charity. With more than 600 families relying on LauraLynn’s care across Ireland, the additional funds raised this year – more than €296,000 – will go directly towards expanding services for the increasing number of children and families seeking support.”

Kerry McLaverty, CEO of LauraLynn, commented: “The unwavering commitment and generosity shown by the Microsoft Ireland team year in and year out is incredible. The long-term support provided by their employees has helped us to make a lasting impact over the past decade and the funds raised this year will allow us to continue to meet the needs of children and families who avail our services and activities across the country including in newly expanded areas like the West, Northwest, and Midlands. Dedicated corporate supporters like Microsoft are central to our ability to grow and enhance our services year after year, supporting more and more children and their families across Ireland.”

In addition to Microsoft Ireland’s annual fundraising cycle, Microsoft also donates software and provides training to the charity, and Microsoft employees regularly volunteer their time at LauraLynn House, lending support to the hospice and its mission to improve the quality of life for children with life-limiting conditions.

To learn more about LauraLynn please visit: https://www.lauralynn.ie/

Microsoft launches new series of Dream Space TV

Microsoft has announced the launch of its latest Dream Space TV series, Code Green, aimed at providing teachers across Ireland with new STEM teaching resources to inspire young students to become sustainability champions in their schools and communities. The release of the Code Green series coincides with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Week 2024, a Government of Ireland led initiative, taking place from September 20th to 29th.

Developed by Microsoft, in collaboration with Irelands Knowledge Centre for Carbon, Climate and Community Action (IKC3) at Munster Technological University and supported by RTÉ Learn, Code Green provides hands-on educational resources designed to help young people understand the role they can play in creating a more sustainable future. Furthermore, students are given the opportunity to develop their STEM skills and are challenged to apply those to advance sustainability in their school community.

Aligned to the EU Green Deal 2050, each of the six freely available on-demand Microsoft Dream Space TV Code Green episodes focus on a different aspect of sustainability, from building eco-friendly vehicles and coding energy-saving programs to using AI tools to monitor biodiversity and creating sustainability plans for schools. The series is being rolled out on RTÉ Learn over a six-week period from September 27th.

Upon completion of the six episodes schools will have the opportunity to enter the Code Green challenge and submit an entry to participate in the Code Green Showcase event, which will take place at Microsoft’s campus in Leopardstown, Dublin in June 2025.

The Code Green resources being unveiled today align fully with the Government’s Second National Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development and its priority of empowering and mobilising young people to upskill and take action for a more sustainable future. Each Code Green episode is designed for easy integration into the classroom, with detailed teacher guides, worksheets, and curriculum links to support the Irish primary curriculum.

Commenting on today’s announcement, James O’Connor, Microsoft Ireland Site Leader, and Corporate Vice-President of Microsoft Global Operations Service Centre, said: “We are delighted to be marking SDG Week 2024 by rolling out the new Microsoft Dream Space TV series – Code Green. With the help of the latest series available on RTE Learn, young people will have the opportunity to develop their STEM and AI skills and put them to the test to advance sustainability in their own school community.

“With digital technology transforming our lives, work, and education, it is crucial that every young person can engage in STEM and AI learning and think critically about the world around them. Through Microsoft Dream Space and its many initiatives, we are helping the next generation to develop the skills that are required amid the twin – digital and green – transitions.”

Dr. Helena McMahon, Director of Ireland’s Knowledge Centre for Carbon Climate and Community Action (IKC3), at Munster Technological University, said: “MTU is delighted to partner with Microsoft on the development and roll out of Code Green. The IKC3 and Microsoft Dream Space team collaboration has brought together the brightest of minds in programme design, sustainability, and STEM education. This new educational resource for teachers and students nationwide aligns with the EU Green Deal 2050 themes and supports our joint commitment to promote both STEM and sustainability education that build green and digital skills. We encourage every primary school throughout Munster and across the island of Ireland to join us in this exciting learning journey towards a more sustainable future.”

Speaking about the initiative, Suzanne Kelly, Group Head of Children’s & Young People’s Content at RTÉ, said: “RTÉ are thrilled to be once again teaming up with Microsoft Dream Space, this time to explore how technology can be a force for good in tackling climate change. The Dream Space team have developed engaging and free to use learning materials that will help students and schools to do just that and we’re proud to be helping to deliver these resources nationwide.”

This latest series of Microsoft Dream Space TV is the sixth to be produced and made freely available on RTÉ Learn, with previous episodes focusing on developing digital and AI skills through themes of inclusivity, sustainability, and health and wellbeing. Of the 300,000+ students that have already engaged in Microsoft Dream Space, more than 47,000 have done so by way of Microsoft Dream Space TV. Microsoft Dream Space TV is one of a number of initiatives that Microsoft is rolling out as it looks to provide every student across the island of Ireland – almost 1 million in total – with the opportunity to develop their STEM and AI skills.

The IKC3 Project at MTU is funded by the Higher Education Authority under the Human Capital Initiative.

To get started and learn more, visit aka.ms/CodeGreen or Code Green: The sustainability series from Dream Space TV (rte.ie).

Microsoft Dream Space engages 300,000 young people in digital skills

At the second annual Microsoft Dream Space Showcase held in Dublin to mark the end of school year, Microsoft announced that it has engaged 300,000 young people and teachers in its immersive Microsoft Dream Space STEM experience which has been designed to help young people pursue their interest in STEM and shift their perceptions about the role technology can play in their future career choices.

This important milestone comes just 18 months after the company pledged to provide almost 1,000,000 students and their teachers across the island of Ireland with the opportunity to develop their digital and AI skills.

Over the past year, the company has introduced a suite of new programmes, which has helped to broaden the reach of Microsoft Dream Space. The company joined forces with RTÉ Learn to present Microsoft Dream Space TV: brAIn_waves – a series exploring the evolution of AI which enabled primary and post-primary students to develop their AI literacy.

The Microsoft Dream Space hub in Leopardstown also hosted the largest ‘Capture the Flag’ cybersecurity event for post-primary school students in Ireland, which sought to inspire the next generation of cyber security leaders.

To address inequalities in accessing STEM careers among post-primary students in socially disadvantaged communities, Microsoft Ireland, together with Maynooth University, Science Foundation Ireland and the Department of Education expanded the STEM Passport for Inclusion initiative nationwide with the ambition to engage a further 5,000 students.

The second annual Microsoft Dream Space Showcase held at One Microsoft Place this week brought together over 400 students from rural areas to demonstrate the many ways in which their digital skills can help to solve some of today’s sustainability challenges.

Other Microsoft Dream Space innovations introduced within the past 12 months include the expansion of the Dream Space Ambassador and Dream Space LIVE programmes, the launch of the Dream Space Minecraft Teacher Academy, the relaunch of the Dream Space Digital Academy and the roll out of bespoke Dream Space events for people with disabilities.

The continued expansion of Microsoft Dream Space builds on Microsoft’s recent commitment to help ‘Skill Up Ireland’ by providing people of all ages, experiences and ambitions with the opportunity to develop their AI fluency and skills.

James O’Connor, Microsoft Ireland Site Leader and Vice-President Microsoft Global Operations Service Centre, said: “As part of our commitment to Skill Up Ireland for the era of AI, we’re incredibly proud to have engaged 300,000 young people from across this island in our Microsoft Dream Space experience.

“With digital technology transforming our lives, work, and education, it’s crucial that every student, regardless of socio-demographics, can engage in STEM learning as early as possible and prepare for our AI future. That’s why 18 months ago, we committed an additional €3 million investment in our innovation and education hub, Microsoft Dream Space, over four years.

“As a result, we’ve been able to significantly expand our Dream Space programming and introduce new innovations to broaden its reach and impact. The significant increases in STEM interest and confidence that we’re seeing as a result, particularly among girls and students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, highlight the power of the programme.

“Through the continued growth of Microsoft Dream Space, I’m confident that we can provide every student on the island of Ireland with the chance to engage in STEM and AI learning and empower the next generation of digital leaders.”

Speaking about her experience of the Dream Space Student Ambassador programme Isobel Fay, student from Our Lady of Mercy Convent School in Booterstown, said: “Since taking part in the Dream Space Ambassador programme, I’ve learned so much about new technologies like AI and how they can be used to solve different problems in society. All the training has been really helpful in boosting my confidence to speak to students and teachers at my school in Booterstown about all the interesting possibilities that we can use technology for. I’m looking forward to more Dream Space sessions in the future and continuing to learn about the latest developments in technology.”

Reflecting on the engagement of her students in the Microsoft Dream Space TV: brAIn_waves series Nathalia McCarthy a teacher from Grange Community College, Donaghmede in Dublin said: “I loved how the series was linked to the curriculum, so we were able to add it so easily to what we were already doing in the classroom. I have never seen enthusiasm like it in 1st years, 2nd years and our TY students.”

Research undertaken by Maynooth University has indicated the positive impact of Microsoft Dream Space on those who have taken part. Findings show a 42% increase in girls likely to pursue STEM careers and a 40% increase in boys with similar aspirations. Notably, socio-economically disadvantaged girls demonstrated a 30% increase in career aspirations in STEM fields and an 80% boost in confidence regarding their STEM capabilities.

Educators eager to bring this transformative STEM education experience to your students, subscribe to the monthly Dream Space newsletter to stay updated on the latest offerings and opportunities. Join us at aka.ms/dreamspacenews.

Microsoft rolls out new initiatives to help skill up rural Ireland for the era of AI

Minister for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation, Dara Calleary TD, joined Microsoft at a Connected Hub in north Mayo as it announced the rollout of AI Skill-Up-A-Thons to rural communities across the country and AI masterclasses for businesses in the Kerry region. The rural skilling initiatives are a key part of Microsoft’s ambition to ‘Skill Up Ireland’ providing every person in the country with the opportunity to skill up for the era of AI.

The AI Skill-Up-A-Thons are designed to help equip those with little or no understanding of AI with the basic knowledge, skills and competencies in AI. Those who complete the free, 4-hour course will earn an industry recognised Career Essentials Certificate in Generative AI and gain access to LinkedIn Premium to help support those looking to develop a career in AI.

AI Skill-Up-A-Thons are being delivered in partnership with FIT (Fastrack into Information Technology) and with the support of local authorities, ETBs and the large network of Connected Hubs throughout the country.

Learners will be given the opportunity to take part in a series of AI Skill-Up-A-Thons which are taking place in Counties including Cavan, Galway, Kilkenny, Mayo, and Tipperary in the coming weeks with other locations to be announced in the coming months.

The first AI Skill-Up-A-Thon was held at the Connected Hub in Knockmore in north Mayo, where Minister Calleary joined learners as they developed the practical and transversal skills necessary to thrive in an AI age and secured their Generative AI certification.

Microsoft has also announced that it will be rolling out a series of AI masterclasses for businesses in Munster focusing on providing business leaders in rural Ireland with the skills and insights to adopt AI within their organisation.

Developed in collaboration with the RDI Hub, the AI masterclasses will be delivered both in-person and online from now until September.

Speaking at the inaugural AI Skill-Up-A-Thon, Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation Dara Calleary TD, said: “I welcome the announcement by Microsoft that it is providing new AI upskilling and reskilling opportunities in communities across rural Ireland, including here in Mayo. AI tools and technology have significant potential to transform how we work and do business. But to fully unlock their benefits and meet the ambition of our National AI Strategy, individuals and businesses must start to develop in-demand AI skills and capabilities. It is only by working together across Government, industry, and the education sector that we can demystify AI and ensure Ireland’s workforce has the AI skills that will be needed now and into the future.” 

James O’Connor, Microsoft Ireland Site Leader and Vice-President Microsoft Global Operations Service Centre, said: “AI has the potential to empower people and organisations across the country but it’s critical that everyone, everywhere has the skills to harness its benefits. Last October, we launched our national AI skilling programme to help give everyone in Ireland the opportunity to upskill and reskill. One of our key ambitions as part of the programme is to bring AI skilling directly to people, communities and businesses in rural Ireland and ensure they are given equal opportunity to engage in AI.

 “That’s why today we’re rolling out the first-ever AI Skill-Up-A-Thons across rural Ireland. Through these new AI learning pathways, we want to empower people of all ages, backgrounds and experience with the skills and knowledge to succeed in an AI-enabled economy. Our new AI masterclasses, in collaboration with the RDI Hub in Kerry, will also help businesses develop the tools and skills to adopt AI at speed and support growth into the future.

 By providing these AI rural skilling initiatives, as well as our significant investment in skills more broadly, we will continue to play our part in helping to Skill Up Ireland for the era of AI.”

Danielle Barr, Director of Training & Employment Services at Fastrack into Information Technology (FIT) said: “We’re delighted to be working with our long-term partner, Microsoft, on the delivery of AI Skill-Up-A-Thons across the country. AI is such a powerful tool. But we need to ensure that every person, at all levels, can access and most importantly understand how it can benefit their education and professional journey. By rolling out the AI Skill-Up-A-Thons in Connected Hubs and other venues in rural Ireland, we can ensure that every person is given the opportunity to learn about AI and understand its importance.”

Speaking about her experience in taking part in the AI Skill-Up-A-Thon in north Mayo, Sandra Hennigan said: “AI is everywhere these days, and it is important that we all understand this powerful digital technology and its potential. Taking part in Microsoft’s AI Skill-Up-A-Thon in a local Connected Hub in north Mayo provided the perfect chance to do just that.  As well as gaining new insights into AI, I believe the knowledge and skills I gained during the AI Skill-Up-A-Thon will be very valuable in my own job and help to boost my productivity and creativity. The instructors were incredibly helpful and helped open my eyes to the possibilities of AI in my own daily life. I now feel like I have the confidence to start applying AI tools in my work and I would encourage everyone to use the opportunity to begin developing their AI skills today.”

Liam Cronin, CEO, RDI Hub said: “The RDI hub has always had a powerful connection with the topic of Artificial Intelligence. The RDI hub building itself is named after and dedicated to Professor John McCarthy, as a tribute to the Stanford University computer scientist who was one of the founders of the discipline of artificial intelligence and his father was born in Cromane, near Killorglin in Co Kerry. From our very first year in business, we have run an annual two-day artificial intelligence summer school focusing on both core and applied research, and we are keen to continue this momentum. The collaboration with Microsoft helps us deliver exceptional AI masterclasses at scale across Munster and we look forward to continued growth and meaningful contributions to the AI landscape in 2024 and beyond.”

To learn more about the AI Skill-Up-A-Thons taking place across the country and to register your interest, visit: https://fit.ie/skillsforjobslearningpathways/.

Microsoft marks end of Cybersecurity Awareness Month with event for over 400 secondary school students

To mark the end of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, over 400 secondary school students from post primary schools across the country gathered in Microsoft Ireland’s campus in Leopardstown, Dublin for the CyberSchools Quest event. The gathering was the final in a series of events held during October and focused on equipping the students with cyber security skills and knowledge and opening their minds to the career opportunities within this growing sector.

With the changing nature of cyber-attacks, there is a growing demand for cyber security skills and need to foster the next generation of cybersecurity leaders in Ireland. A recent report by Cyber Ireland reveals that over 8 in 10 businesses (83%) expect to grow their cybersecurity team over the next twelve months and predicts the cyber security sector could add an additional 10,000 jobs to the Irish economy by 2030.

Recognising the opportunity to equip students with these skills, Microsoft Ireland collaborated with the Technological University (TU) Dublin and ZeroDays to deliver the CyberSchools Quest programme. It culminated in what was the largest ‘capture the flag’ cybersecurity event held for post-primary schools in Ireland to mark Cybersecurity Awareness Month which takes place across the month of October each year.

The CyberSchools Quest programme helps to address the cyber skills gap by focusing on developing cyber capabilities across a range of key domains such as confidentiality (keeping data secure); phishing, identifying common social engineering strategies; and reconnaissance, using open source-intelligence to find information online. The initiative also helps to foster computational thinking, problem-solving, collaboration and communication skills.

CyberSchools Quest centered around a week-long series of cyber learning sessions and hands-on challenges designed to introduce post-primary school students to the world of cyber security. Leveraging content developed by ZeroDays in collaboration with TU Dublin, CyberSchools Quest was then delivered in the immersive learning environment within Microsoft Dream Space.

Schools visited Microsoft Dream Space to take part in the week-long series with the final event bringing all students together at Microsoft Ireland’s campus in Leopardstown, Dublin. Here students competed across a number of cybersecurity ‘capture the flag’ challenges. On completion students could apply for a digital badge accredited by TU Dublin, while the winning team, CBS Mullingar from County Westmeath, were crowned CyberSchools Quest champions and can go on to undertake an opportunity to represent Ireland at the European Cybersecurity Challenge finals in 2024.

James O’Connor, Microsoft Ireland Site Leader and Vice-President Microsoft Global Operations Service Centre, said: “We were delighted to mark Cybersecurity Awareness Month by welcoming over 400 secondary school students from across Ireland to the inaugural CyberSchools Quest event at our campus in Dublin. A central part of our mission is to skill up Ireland with the in-demand skills for our digital economy. By way of this initiative, we were able to focus on developing cyber security skills in our young people, opening their minds to not only the changing nature of cyber threats but the job opportunities within the sector.

“By joining forces with TU Dublin and ZeroDays we are helping to ensure that the next generation are provided with fun and engaging ways to develop these capabilities.  The enthusiasm demonstrated by the students at CyberSchools Quest underpins the importance of events such as this and of industry partnering with the education sector to unlock the opportunities of our digital world.   I’d like to thank all the students who participated and importantly their schools and teachers for taking the time to bring them to the events.”

The CyberSchools Quest initiative builds on a collaboration between Microsoft Ireland and TU Dublin focused on supporting the development of Cloud, Cyber and Datacenter skills through existing and new potential courses delivered at TU Dublin. Working together Microsoft and TU Dublin have committed to supporting initiatives that provide greater access into these skilling programs while also remaining focused on the promotion of STEM based programs connecting with existing initiatives such as Microsoft Dream Space.

Speaking about the partnership Dr Anthony Keane, the Head of School of Informatics and Cybersecurity said: “TU Dublin and Microsoft Ireland have forged a strong partnership over recent years as together we aim empower learners and teachers with the skills, they’ll need for a world increasing shaped by technology. The new CyberSchools Quest event builds on those strong ties by equipping secondary school students with in-demand cyber security skills and other problem-solving and computational skills so they are prepared for the digital future that lies ahead.

“Channeling the curiosity and creativity of our young people into digital technology and cyber security at CyberSchools Quest is an important step in addressing digital skills gaps and building a foundational awareness of best practice cyber security. We’re proud to join Microsoft and ZeroDays in bridging the skills gap and supporting the next generation of young people achieve more through technology.”

Ciaran Curran, teacher at Largy College, Clones, Monaghan said: “We were delighted to be at Microsoft Ireland’s campus with our students and have the opportunity to join others from across Ireland for CyberSchools Quest. Through this experience the students have been able to learn new cyber skills and put them to the test. It has not only helped to spark an interest in STEM among the students, it has also opened their eyes to the career opportunities that exist in the cybersecurity sector and helped them to believe that perhaps one day they could become the cybersecurity leaders of the future.”

To learn more about CyberSchools Quest and Microsoft Dream Space, please visit: dreamspace.ie

Codec named Microsoft Country Partner of the Year for Ireland 2023

Codec, one of Ireland’s leading cloud solutions consultancy companies, today announced it has won the prestigious Microsoft Partner of the Year Award for 2023. The company was honoured among a global field of top Microsoft partners for demonstrating excellence in innovation and implementation of customer solutions based on Microsoft technology.

The achievement comes following a recent expansion programme launched by Codec. The expansion will create 65 new jobs in Ireland and saw the opening of a new office in London.

The Microsoft Partner of the Year Awards recognise Microsoft partners that have developed and delivered outstanding Microsoft-based applications, services, and devices during the past year. Awards were classified in various categories, with honourees chosen from a set of more than 4,200 submitted nominations from more than 100 countries worldwide. Codec was recognised for providing outstanding solutions and services in Ireland.

Commenting on the achievement, Ronan Stafford, CEO, Codec, said: “I am delighted to accept the Microsoft Ireland 2023 Country Partner of the Year award on behalf of our exceptional team at Codec. Their dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment have driven transformative digital projects for our clients in the Public Sector and Healthcare Sector. This recognition is a testament to their remarkable achievements and the positive impact they have made. Together, we will continue pushing boundaries and shaping a brighter future.”

Speaking about the award win, Martina Naughton, Global Partner Sales Director, Microsoft Ireland, added: “We are delighted to announce Codec as Microsoft Ireland’s Country Partner of the Year for 2023. Codec’s exceptional drive for innovation, their dedication to customer success, and collaborative approach truly set them apart. Their unwavering commitment to assuring delivery of Microsoft’s cloud solutions has been instrumental in enabling their customers to thrive and embrace digital transformation. We look forward to continuing our partnership, developing innovative solutions, now and into the future, as Codec continues to exemplify excellence in leveraging Microsoft technology.”

Established in 1985 and headquartered in Ireland, Codec is a high-growth, leading technology company with offices in Dublin, London, Belfast, and Malta. With a team of over 300 dedicated professionals, they are committed to delivering innovative solutions based on the Microsoft low-code platform. As a four-time recipient of the Microsoft Country Partner of the Year award, Codec specialises in providing business applications, artificial intelligence, and cloud infrastructure on the low-code Microsoft platform to organisations in the Public and Healthcare sectors. Beyond technology Codec actively supports sustainability and our chosen charities, Ruhama and Flourish.

Microsoft announces renewable energy contracts that contribute almost 30% of Ireland’s corporate power purchase agreement target by 2030

The Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Leo Varadkar TD today joined Microsoft as it announced new renewable energy contracts, which will see the company contribute close to 30% of Ireland’s corporate power purchase agreement target by 2030.

Microsoft entered into multi-year Corporate Power Purchase Agreements (CPPAs) with Statkraft, Energia Group, and Power Capital Renewable Energy, related to the development of more than 900 megawatts of onshore wind and solar energy projects across Ireland.

The new power purchase agreements will help support efforts to add additional clean energy capacity to the electricity grid. The Government’s Climate Action Plan includes a target of 15% of electricity demand to be delivered from renewable energy CPPAs by 2030. This equates to approximately 6 terawatt hours of additional electricity generation.

Microsoft’s procurement will contribute 28% of that target before the end of the decade. The company is seeking to make a material contribution to accelerating the country’s journey to a net-zero future.

In line with the company’s global sustainability goal, Microsoft forecasts that it will cover 100% of its data centre electricity load by 2025 with renewable energy.

Commenting on the announcement, the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Leo Varadkar TD, said: “Data is an enabler of our digital world facilitating everything from remote working and online learning to e-commerce, e-health and online banking. As we position Ireland as a global digital leader and achieve our climate change objectives, Government is determined to progress both the digitalisation of our economy and its decarbonisation. Today’s announcement by Microsoft is very welcome news and will help to ensure that the company’s data centres play a more positive role in bringing new green power to the electricity grid and driving Ireland’s renewable energy transition.” 

 

Noelle Walsh, Corporate Vice President, Cloud Operations and Innovation, Microsoft said: “At Microsoft, we’re committed to becoming carbon negative by 2030, working with Governments globally to accelerate the journey to a net-zero future. That’s why I’m delighted to announce today that Microsoft has signed 900MW of onshore wind and solar renewable energy power purchase agreements, which will enable Microsoft to achieve our 2025 sustainability goals and to contribute close to 30% of Ireland’s corporate power purchase target by 2030. With these agreements, we support new renewable energy infrastructure in Ireland. We’re proud to be partnering with leading energy providers to bring this additional renewable energy on stream and help industry and Government and the broader energy sector to achieve its climate action ambitions.

 “This announcement builds on our efforts to make our data centres more sustainable and foster new innovations to support the growth of renewables on the energy grid here in Ireland. As we continue to support the growing demand for Cloud across public and private sectors, Microsoft is committed to partnering with all stakeholders to help Ireland on its grid decarbonisation journey while unlocking the opportunities of a digital economy and society.” 

Kevin O’Donovan, Managing Director, Statkraft Ireland said: “As Europe’s largest renewable energy company, Statkraft is already a key player in the Irish market. Given our rapidly growing wind and solar portfolio, as well as our market trading business, we are well-placed to support companies like Microsoft in achieving their renewable energy ambitions.

“Today’s announcement shows that our continued rollout of new wind and solar projects is not just having a significant impact on Ireland’s renewable targets, but helping to deliver affordable, green energy to homes, communities – and businesses – amid a fossil fuel-driven energy crisis.”

Ian Thom, CEO, Energia Group said: “As an Irish energy company with a proven history of delivering new renewable energy projects and for providing innovative solutions for our customers, today’s announcement with Microsoft highlights the benefit of collaboration in bringing about collective benefit for society, enterprise, and the economy.  Energia Group has set clear targets to promote Ireland’s energy transition and to facilitate the achievement of the Government’s 2030 targets that will be realised through a pipeline of almost 3,000 MW of new renewable projects across a range of technologies, including offshore wind, onshore wind and solar.  This agreement represents another step towards the achievement of these targets.”

Commenting on the announcement Power Capital Renewable Energy Co CEO Peter Duff said, “As an indigenous Irish company we are delighted to be partnering with Microsoft on such a landmark agreement. Solar is now a proven force in Ireland and has become increasingly viable for businesses and homes. We see Solar PV having a significant positive impact on the targets in Ireland’s Climate Action Plan. We very much look forward to playing an increasing role in the further decarbonisation of the grid here in Ireland.”

Today’s announcement reinforces Microsoft’s commitment to advancing sustainability through collaboration and innovation. In July this year, the company outlined its plans to use its uninterruptable power supply (UPS) batteries within its data centres in Dublin for real-time interaction with Ireland’s power grid. On days when wind or solar power production is fluctuating, Microsoft’s backup batteries can be used to help maintain a steady flow of energy to power customers. That means fossil-fuel burning powerplants will be needed less often to maintain steady power, cutting emissions and fuel costs.

Microsoft launches Soundscape app to enable people to explore the world around them. #MSFTSoundscape

Microsoft today announced the launch of Soundscape in Ireland, an app that has been designed to enable people to explore the world around them through a 3D experience.

The Microsoft Soundscape app uses innovative audio-based technology to enable people to build a richer awareness of their surroundings, thus becoming more confident and independent when moving around their town, city or local area.

Unlike step-by-step navigation apps, Soundscape uses 3D audio cues that help build a mental map of their surrounding and provides a new way for people to relate to their environment. People use Soundscape in a number of different and creative ways. Recently, we came across an example of a group of 11-year-old students using Soundscape to create a heritage trail of historical sites in their town. With Soundscape, they created a 3D spatial audio experience from one landmark to another and as the trail unfolded more and more of the town’s history was revealed to the user.

In another example of how Soundscape can assist users in navigating their environment, Microsoft has been collaborating with NCBI (National Council for the Blind in Ireland) to test the Soundscape app locally. Over the past year, mobility specialists at NCBI have been working directly with service users to help them use the app and provide feedback on its impact on their daily lives.

One such user is Michael Leahy, a 38-year-old native of Dublin, who has used the Microsoft Soundscape app to build up his confidence in travelling independently and getting back into work after losing his sight just 18 months ago.

Speaking about the impact of Soundscape, Michael Leahy said: “When I lost my vision, my world was turned upside down. I didn’t know what to do or how to move forward. I was losing my sense of self and my confidence in the process.

“After I completed my foundational mobility training NCBI introduced me to the Microsoft Soundscape app. I knew very quickly I had found a tool that could really improve the quality of my daily life. The app helped me to navigate my daily routes and to start going out independently. Being mobile has given me back my independence and the confidence to find employment. The Soundscape app has been truly life-changing.”

Chantelle Smith, National Access and Mobility Manager, at NCBI explained that: “Technology is a huge enabler for people living with a vision impairment or blindness. Over the past year, I’ve seen first-hand how the Microsoft Soundscape app has supported Michael to regain his independence following his diagnosis.

“Soundscape has the potential to positively impact the lives of almost 55,000 people in Ireland who are blind or vision impaired to more freely navigate the world around them. We’re thrilled that it is now available for free here in Ireland and I’d encourage those within the community to download it and use it to its full potential.”

Microsoft soundscape app techbuzzireland

Speaking about the launch, James O’Connor, Vice President of Microsoft International Operations, said: “At Microsoft, we believe that technology can play a vital role in creating a more inclusive Ireland and empowering positive change in our society. By collaborating with NCBI and its service users, we’ve observed the profound impact that Soundscape has on people’s lives, enabling them to live, work and play with a renewed sense of independence and confidence.

“Michael’s story is a powerful example of what can be achieved when we harness the power of accessible technology to help everyone in our community to reach their true potential. By making the Soundscape app available for free, in collaboration with NCBI, we hope to help people who are blind or vision impaired to navigate and connect with the world around them.” 

Soundscape is designed to be used by everyone and allows the user to switch effortlessly between using the app in the real world or in the virtual world, helping to build a richer awareness of their surroundings and enabling them to explore and learn about their environment.  Soundscape can be downloaded for free via the App Store for iOS devices. Visit Microsoft Soundscape to find out more.