Tag: Microsoft

Microsoft celebrates milestone of 25,000 trees planted in south and west Dublin

Microsoft Ireland today celebrated a milestone in its ongoing efforts to support community wellbeing and local biodiversity in south and west Dublin, with 25,000 trees planted across the area.

Coinciding with National Tree Week, the tree planting initiative, now in its third year, was delivered in collaboration with Trees on the Land, and brought together more than 300 volunteers from Microsoft, local community groups, schools and third level institutes to plant trees in communities near the Microsoft data centre campus in Grangecastle.

This year alone, over 8,000 trees have been planted as volunteers came together to improve existing landscape infrastructure and create more green spaces by planting mixed native tree cover at three sites across Dublin – St Aidan’s Community School, Ballyboden St Enda’s GAA Club and TU Dublin Blanchardstown campus.

In total, 15 different tree species were planted across the various sites including oak, birch and hazel, which in turn will help to reduce air pollution in the local community as the woodland matures. Enhancing these natural spaces will benefit local wildlife by providing a valuable source of food and shelter for birds, insects and other fauna.

Of the 8,000 trees planted this year, more than 4,000 trees were planted on the grounds of St Aidan’s Community School, which will provide a new woodlands area that can enable teachers at the school to deliver practical lessons on nature, biodiversity and sustainability. As part of the initiative, Microsoft also worked together with Clondalkin Tidy Towns to donate native trees to members of the local community to help improve the wellbeing of local residents.

Commenting on the milestone, Lavinia Morris, General Manager of Microsoft data centre operations for EMEA, said: “At Microsoft, we’re committed to empowering thriving and sustainable local communities where we operate, in line with our Data Centre Community Pledge. Planting 25,000 trees at various sites across south and west Dublin will help to deliver on this pledge, fostering sustainability and enhancing community wellbeing across the local community, while operating responsibly as a good neighbour.

“I’d like to give a special thanks to the many volunteers from Microsoft and the local community for their generous contribution to the initiative this year and look forward to seeing the positive impact of their work on the local community well into the future.”

Imogen Rabone, Project Coordinator at Trees on the Land, said: “We’re delighted to continue our long-standing partnership with Microsoft on this initiative. The 8,000 trees planted at the sites across south and west Dublin this year will help support local biodiversity and create greener natural spaces that directly benefit local residents. Many thanks to the volunteers from Microsoft and the local community for their brilliant help with the planting work on the ground.”

The tree planting initiative is one of the many ways in which Microsoft is supporting thriving and sustainable communities in south and west Dublin. Earlier this year, the company unveiled the Microsoft Community Fund for South Dublin, which will provide €100,000 in funding for local groups near the company’s data centre campus in Clondalkin to deliver impactful projects focusing on sustainability and digital skilling initiatives.

Since 2008 Microsoft has invested more than €4 million in initiatives that support thriving, sustainable communities in the vicinity of its data centre operations in Clondalkin, assisting more than 60 community projects and engaging 16,000 local people across South and West Dublin.

Microsoft receives IDA Ireland Special Recognition Award

An Taoiseach Micheál Martin joined IDA Ireland today to recognise Microsoft’s significant contribution to the Irish economy by awarding the company its Special Recognition Award (SRA). This acknowledgement coincides with Microsoft celebrating its 50th anniversary globally, and its 40th year in Ireland.

The Special Recognition Award is presented to companies who have made a significant contribution to both the Irish economy and to Irish society in general. It also highlights Ireland’s strong proposition and attraction for foreign direct investment which includes its talent, innovation, and stable enterprise policies. Previous recipients of the award include Pfizer, Apple, and Google.

The award was presented by Taoiseach Micheál Martin to Brad Smith, Microsoft’s Vice Chair and President, at a special event entitled, “Our Shared Digital Future”, held this morning at Dublin’s Mansion House. The event was attended by over 400 guests from IDA client companies, policymakers, business leaders and Microsoft employees, customers and partners.

Microsoft first established a presence in Dublin in 1985 with a small manufacturing operation with less than 100 people. Through successive investments, transformation and the diversification of its operations, Ireland has become a significant international hub for Microsoft with more than 4,000 people providing software development, engineering, data centres, finance, operations, and sales and marketing services for the EMEA region.

Building on its 40-year history of investment in Ireland, last November Microsoft announced a new strategic investment in its operations with the creation of 550 new Irish-based engineering and R&D roles that will be involved in pioneering the development of new AI technologies.

In presenting the award Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: “I am delighted to present this Special Recognition Award to Microsoft, one of the world’s most successful technology companies. The fact that it has had a presence here for 40 of its 50 years is testament to the value proposition that Ireland offers companies looking to internationalise their business. Microsoft’s decision to choose Ireland as a location from which to expand its operations has contributed immensely to the vibrant and innovative tech ecosystem that has evolved here over the past four decades, not to mention its economic and social impact. I want to both congratulate and thank Brad Smith and all the team for Microsoft’s presence and its continued investments in Ireland, and to assure them of the ongoing support of the Irish Government, through IDA Ireland, as Microsoft continues to innovate, transform, and shape the future of AI.”

CEO of IDA Ireland, Michael Lohan said, “Our Special Recognition Award celebrates the substantial contributions our client companies make to the Irish economy and to the people of Ireland. Foreign Direct Investment continues to be a substantive driver of the Irish economy. Many of our client companies have demonstrated longevity, resilience, and continued commitment, by creating jobs and delivering real economic impact, both nationally and regionally.  Microsoft is one such company and is a very deserving winner of our Special Recognition Award 2025. IDA Ireland and Microsoft have built a longstanding, trusted partnership over four decades of expansion and growth in Ireland and I look forward to our continued partnership throughout the next decades as the company continues to develop the next wave of AI-powered software and technology.”

Accepting the IDA Special Recognition Award Brad Smith, Vice Chair and President of Microsoft said: “For four decades, Microsoft has shared a special relationship with the people and government of Ireland. From our first European Operations centre that shipped software in boxes to customers, to one of our most advanced cloud datacentre campuses delivering AI solutions, Microsoft Ireland continues to play a pivotal role in driving innovation and transformation across the EU.”

Microsoft launches Community Fund for South Dublin organisations

Microsoft is unveiling a new fund to support individuals, community groups, schools and non-profits that want to deliver impactful community projects in South Dublin.

The Microsoft Community Fund for South Dublin, managed by non-profit ChangeX, is dedicated to helping support thriving and sustainable communities near the company’s data centre campus in Clondalkin – funding projects related to environmental sustainability and digital skills.

As part of this year’s €100,000 fund, communities will be able to choose from a portfolio of exciting, proven ideas that have already had a positive impact in other communities around the world including a citizen science monitoring scheme to protect water sources, a programme to support the development of school gardens and local biodiversity, and a project aiming to tackle plastic pollution through turning waste into valuable materials.

Applications for funding are open to individuals, groups, schools and non-profits across the South Dublin County Council area. Funding of up to €4,500 per project is available, with a simple step-by-step application process in place to support groups to secure funding. Funding is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, with all applicants required to complete a 30-day challenge to unlock funding, which includes establishing a clear project action plan.

The launch of the Microsoft Community Fund for South Dublin builds on the support Microsoft has already provided to local communities. Sixty community projects, focusing on the development of digital skills and empowering local sustainability, have benefitted more than 16,000 community members since 2021 alone. Moreover, since 2008, Microsoft has invested more than €4 million in initiatives that support thriving, sustainable communities in the vicinity of its data centre operations in Clondalkin.

Commenting on the launch of the fund, Lavinia Morris, General Manager of Microsoft data centre operations for EMEA, said: “Last year, Microsoft unveiled our Data Centre Community Pledge, highlighting our commitment to local economies and communities where we operate. As we build and operate a global network of advanced data centres, we recognise the crucial role communities play in this ecosystem. The latest Microsoft Community Fund for South Dublin, announced today, will help deliver on the key pillars of this pledge, advancing community prosperity and well-being, while contributing to a sustainable future, and operating responsibly as a good neighbour.

“Over the past 17 years, Microsoft has invested more than €4m in empowering communities close to our data centre operations in Dublin, helping to enhance people’s digital skills, fostering sustainability and advancing community prosperity and well-being. As part of this investment, Microsoft has directly benefited more than 16,000 local people in communities in South and West Dublin and supported the local organisations that help them thrive. We look forward to witnessing the continued positive impact we can make in creating vibrant and sustainable communities through the roll out of the latest South Dublin community fund.”

Commenting on the initiative, Sandy Hazel, who received support by way of the Fund in 2021 and started an Open Orchard project, said: “We wanted to grow more food but buying fruit trees is expensive. When we heard about the funding provided by Microsoft, we realised it was perfect because it allowed us to get the idea off the ground. The idea behind adding fruit trees and berries to our community garden was to give local children the chance to pick their own fruit and have that experience, which is hard to access when growing up in an urban environment. Spending the funding in local nurseries also helped to support small businesses in the area and give back to the local community.”

Niamh McKenna, co-founder and head of impact at ChangeX, said: “Our partnership with Microsoft has already empowered tens of thousands of local changemakers around the world, and we’re excited to continue that work in Dublin this year.”

To find out more and apply, visit this link: https://bit.ly/3VMcLkr

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/

Dell Technologies Accelerates AI Innovation and Strengthens Cybersecurity Strategies for Microsoft Customers

Dell Technologies has announced new AI innovations to help Dell and Microsoft customers simplify AI adoption, accelerate deployment, and manage demanding workloads in multicloud environments. These advancements also aim to strengthen cybersecurity and data protection for joint customers.

Accelerating AI adoption and performance

Dell’s new AI offerings include the expansion of the Dell AI Factory with solutions developed in collaboration with Microsoft. One notable addition is the Dell APEX file storage for Microsoft Azure, a Dell managed service designed for superior AI workload performance, scalability and data services. This service promises easier deployment and management making it ideal for multicloud environments.

Additionally, Dell has introduced several services to aid organisations in adopting AI and creating custom AI solutions. These services include Accelerator Services for Copilot+ PCs, Services for Microsoft Copilot Studio and Azure AI Studio, and Implementation Services for Microsoft Azure AI Service. These offerings are intended to enhance productivity and support new business opportunities through AI application development.

Comprehensive data protection and security

On the cybersecurity front, Dell has also unveiled the Dell APEX Protection Services for Microsoft Azure, which provided Dell managed AI-powered cloud data protection and cyber resilience. This service aims to improve operational efficiency, enhance data protection with advanced data reduction capabilities and offer robust cyber recovery options.

Moreover, Dell has introduced new security services tailored for Microsoft environments. These services include advisory services for cybersecurity maturity model certification (CCMC) for Microsoft and Managed Detection and Response with Microsoft, helping customers align their cybersecurity posture and focus on core business activities while Dell experts monitor and respond to threats 24/7.

Arthur Lewis, President, Infrastructure Solutions Group, Dell Technologies said “Organisations modernising their IT strategies to support emerging workloads, like AI, need solutions that help them innovate faster, control costs and protect data across multicloud environments. Our storage software, data protection and services advancements help customers in Microsoft environments accelerate their transformation efforts quickly and securely.”

Aung Oo, VP of Azure Storage, Microsoft said “Our customers are looking for ways to modernise their IT infrastructure and adopt hybrid cloud services safely and securely. “Dell Technologies is enabling their customers to bring their existing knowledge, trusted platforms, and enterprise data to Azure to speed the adoption of critical technologies including Azure AI Services.”

Dell Technologies innovation highlight company’s commitment to helping businesses modernise their IT infrastructure while securely and efficiently adopting advanced AI solutions. With enhanced collaboration with Microsoft, Dell is providing the tools and services businesses need to thrive in today’s digital-first, multicloud world.

Availability

  • Dell-managed Dell APEX File Storage for Microsoft Azure will be available in public preview beginning in the first half of 2025.
  • Accelerator Services for Copilot+ PCs are available now.
  • Services for Microsoft Copilot Studio are available now.
  • Services for Microsoft Azure AI Studio are available now.
  • Implementation Services for Microsoft Azure AI Service are available now.
  • Dell APEX Protection Services for Microsoft Azure will be available beginning in the first half of 2025.
  • Advisory Services for Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) for Microsoft are available now.
  • Managed Detection and Response with Microsoft services are available now.

Breaking Barriers in STEM: Over 5,000 Students Benefit from Inclusion Initiative

Today, Maynooth University, in partnership with Microsoft Ireland, Taighde Éireann – Research Ireland and the Department of Education, has published the STEM Passport for Inclusion Impact Report which reveals that over 5,000 students from disadvantaged backgrounds have participated in the initiative to date. Notably, 76% of these students are now considering a career in STEM.

The All-Ireland STEM Passport for Inclusion programme is a joint initiative by Maynooth University, Microsoft Ireland, Research Ireland and the Department of Education that addresses inequalities with access to STEM careers among post-primary school students in socially disadvantaged communities. Initially developed as a pilot in 2021, the programme was expanded nationwide in December 2023.

The programme’s innovative approach, which combines a recognised qualification (Level 6 NFQ), education supports, and mentoring from industry role models, provides a unique pathway for female students to progress to third level education and achieve a STEM qualification.

Since its launch, over 5,370 female students from DEIS schools in all four provinces have been engaged, with 50% of participants from rural areas. As part of the programme 1,100 industry mentors have delivered 2,524 mentoring hours. The outcome has been that students from 117 DEIS schools have been empowered to graduate with a university accredited STEM qualification while still in post-primary school.

A survey of programme participants revealed that STEM Passport for Inclusion has positively changed students’ view of STEM with 79% now considering applying to study STEM at third level while 76% are considering a career in STEM.

The programme has also increased students’ knowledge of, and familiarity with, STEM. Only 45% of students reported knowing what STEM was before participating in the programme. This increased to 95% once students completed the programme.

This has helped to reduce the STEM confidence gap between girls in DEIS and non-DEIS schools. Previously, only 3 in 10 girls from DEIS schools were confident they could study STEM in the future while close to 6 in 10 girls from non-DEIS were confident. Once girls took part in STEM Passport for Inclusion, the STEM confidence gap between girls in DEIS and non-DEIS schools was all but eliminated.

While the report details the significant impact of the programme to date, it also includes several informed recommendations to further STEM engagement and the impact of the programme across Ireland.

STEM Impact Recommendations

  • Expand the Programme Across All DEIS Schools: Secure funding to implement the programme in every DEIS school in Ireland – ensure nationwide access to STEM education for disadvantaged students.
  • Provide Necessary Resources to DEIS Schools: Many schools lacked the resources to fully participate in the programme. Supplying these institutions with loaned technology, mobile lab kits, and internet support would help bridge this resource gap.
  • Introduce Funded STEM Work Experience Programmes: Partner with industry to provide work experiences to enhance real-world learning and skill development. This initiative would be particularly valuable for DEIS students, who often lack exposure to STEM career pathways.
  • Fund Longitudinal Research on Programme Impact: Invest in further comprehensive research so stakeholders can gain insights into long-term outcomes, enabling data-driven improvements and enhancing the programme’s sustainability.

The National Skills Strategy identified a need to increase STEM participation to develop the talent and skills that are needed for the future of work. Despite female students accounting for more than half of third-level students, they only make up 35% of STEM students. Moreover, fewer than one in ten graduates in STEM fields are from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds. STEM Passport for Inclusion seeks to address this by ensuring that every student, regardless of background, leaves school STEM prepared.

Speaking about her involvement in the initiative and the success of the programme so far, Dr. Katriona O’Sullivan, Digital Skills Lecturer at Maynooth University, said: “The publication of today’s report represents a milestone in the STEM Passport for Inclusion programme. Since its establishment, I have been lucky to see girls complete the programme with a renewed outlook on their potential and their thoughts about themselves have been transformed by the STEM Passport for Inclusion.

“When building out this initiative, we at Maynooth University set out to develop an evidence based, system solution, to address the underrepresentation of diverse women and girls in STEM. The success of the programme is evidenced by the roll out of the programme to over 5000 girls so far.

“We have been fortunate to receive support from our partners at Microsoft Ireland and Research Ireland throughout this journey. Looking forward, we are excited to work alongside third level colleagues around Ireland as the STEM Passport for Inclusion’s reach expands. With the support of philanthropy and our partners, we are expanding the project from 2025-2027, furthering the program’s positive impact.”

Microsoft is the STEM Passport for Inclusion’s lead industry partner, having contributed €600,000 in match funding to date. In addition, Microsoft’s Dream Space education team co-designed the Level 6-accredited (NFQ) STEM Passport module and has supported the delivery of the STEM Passport curriculum to participating students in Dream Space venues in both Dublin and Belfast. More than 300 of Microsoft’s employees are actively supporting the STEM Passport for Inclusion mentoring programme, alongside other educators and representatives from over 180 private and public sector organisations.

Speaking about Microsoft Ireland’s role in the initiative, James O’Connor, Microsoft Ireland Site Leader and Corporate Vice President Microsoft Global Operations Service Centre, said: “Microsoft Ireland has been involved in STEM Passport for Inclusion since its inception three years ago and we’re extremely proud of the role that the Microsoft Dream Space team has played in the co-design and delivery of the programme. In recent years, mass digitalisation and the era of AI have transformed professional expectations and elevated the importance of the next generation engaging in STEM and AI and pursuing a career in the technology sector.

“At Microsoft, we are passionate about ensuring that every young person, irrespective of their background, has the opportunity to engage in STEM and advancements in technology. STEM Passport for Inclusion does just that. Our involvement in the programme, both from a delivery and mentorship perspective, has been extremely rewarding and has allowed us to open our doors to students who traditionally would not have pursued STEM careers. We’re proud of the impact the initiative has had to date and look forward to working with the team at Maynooth University to continue to drive it forward and reach even more students.”

The project is co-funded by Microsoft Ireland and Research Ireland, the new national competitive research and innovation funding agency and the Department of Education. Dr Ruth Freeman, Director of Research for Society at Research Ireland welcomed the report, saying: “We are delighted to continue our support of this wonderfully successful initiative through our Discover Programme. Research Ireland is committed to empowering women from all backgrounds to access vital routes to STEM careers. I’m so excited to see how these students will contribute and thrive as STEM professionals in the future.”

STEM Passport for Inclusion graduate, Ava Kenny is now a third-year science student at Maynooth University. Commenting on her participation in the programme, Ava said: “Before taking part in the STEM Passport for Inclusion I was unsure if I wanted to pursue a college education, let alone pursue a career in STEM. The realm of science seemed distant and unfamiliar to me, and I didn’t know of anyone working in STEM. From my first day in the programme, I was captivated by the many doors a career in STEM could open for me.

“The STEM Passport for Inclusion guided my path into third level education as I am now studying science at Maynooth University. As I move on to the next stage of my life, I am excited about the prospect of a career in STEM and I know that the lessons I learned throughout the programme will stand to me.”

More details on the programme can be found at: STEM Passport for Inclusion | Maynooth University.

Microsoft announces 550 highly skilled jobs at the cutting-edge of the AI sector in Ireland

Taoiseach Simon Harris joined James O’Connor, Microsoft Ireland Site Leader and Corporate Vice-President of Microsoft Global Operations Service Centre, and IDA Ireland Chief Executive, Michael Lohan, today to announce that Ireland has been selected as a key location for Microsoft to invest in advancing its global AI innovation. The decision will result in Microsoft adding 550 new Irish based engineering and R&D roles to pioneer the development of new AI technologies.

The investment will see Microsoft, a global leader in the development and use of AI, undertake significant industrial research into AI to develop critical, leading-edge technology in the area of AI and cyber security, which will then be made available to public and private sector organisations all around the world.

Multidisciplinary teams in the areas of Azure Networking & Infrastructure, Business & Industry Copilot, Customer Success Engineering and Cyber Security will be recruited to investigate groundbreaking technologies and the development AI infrastructure that is scalable, responsible, trusted and secure. The new roles will ensure that Microsoft Ireland’s Engineering Hub will have end-to-end AI product development capabilities.

Furthermore, teams will seek to drive new applications for AI across multiple industries and create brand new AI-enabled product offerings and internal solutions for Microsoft, supporting the corporation’s strategic objective to be at the forefront of responsible AI development and cyber security.

This investment will result in an additional 550 new highly skilled jobs at Microsoft Ireland over the next three to four years, across areas such as software engineering, applied sciences, product management, program management, data science, design, technical writing and analytics. 120 of these roles are available to apply for from today in software engineering, applied sciences, security research, product management and program management.

Microsoft first invested in Ireland in 1985 and with the addition of the roles announced today the company will employ more than 6,000 people across a multifunctional campus in Leopardstown, its data centre campus in Grange Castle, and LinkedIn.

This investment is supported by the Government of Ireland through IDA Ireland.

Taoiseach Simon Harris said: “I very much welcome Microsoft’s announcement today.  Not only does this highlight Ireland’s attractiveness as an investment destination, it also promises a significant boost for the AI ecosystem in Ireland. Fostering AI skills and advancing capabilities in the field are core to the Government’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy and this project will help develop new specialist skills and expertise, thereby positioning Ireland for further investment in this critical area.”

Tara Roth, Microsoft Ireland Executive Site Sponsor and Corporate Vice President, Engineering, Microsoft said: “Today we are delighted to announce a strategic investment in our Irish operations that will strengthen our AI capabilities globally. These new roles span many of Microsoft’s future focused key product areas and services including Security. Security is Microsoft’s top priority, and our Secure Future Initiative (SFI) is the largest cyber security project in history. We’re delighted that these roles will significantly contribute to both Microsoft’s AI development and our security efforts.”

James O’Connor, Microsoft Ireland Site Leader and Corporate Vice President of Microsoft Global Operations Service Centre said: “AI is one of the most transformative technologies of our time – it will unlock profound possibilities for people, industry, and society. At Microsoft, we are delighted to be at the forefront of the AI era – delivering safe, secure and ethical solutions to all industries that will accelerate breakthroughs in healthcare, education, infrastructure and more for the benefit of society as a whole.

“Through this investment, we are building on our almost 40-year presence in Ireland, which has been characterised by continuous investment, transformation and the diversification of our operations from a manufacturing site to a significant international Hub for Microsoft providing software development, engineering, data centres, finance, operations, and sales and marketing for EMEA. Ireland is undoubtedly an established hotbed of engineering and cyber security talent and leadership, with Irish universities producing some of the very best gradates, and this is a significant contributing factor to both our success and continued investment here.

“The creation of 550 new roles enables us to further strengthen our presence here in Ireland and take AI and cyber security innovation to the next level.”

CEO of IDA Ireland Michael Lohan said: “Ireland continues to prove itself as a location where the world’s most innovative AI companies build groundbreaking technologies.  In line with government’s ambitions, by supporting innovative R&D projects like the one announced by Microsoft today, we are helping to shape the future of AI in Ireland and to harness AI as a driver for future economic growth.  This investment by Microsoft is set to deliver exceptional economic benefit alongside 550 highly skilled jobs at the cutting-edge of the AI sector in Ireland.

“Today’s announcement also signals Microsoft’s enduring commitment to Ireland as the location of choice for pioneering, innovative and transformative projects of scale. IDA Ireland and Microsoft have built a longstanding, trusted partnership over four decades of corporate expansion and growth here and we look forward to our continued partnership throughout this very exciting project.”

For more information on the open roles, please visit our careers page.

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.

Ruth McGuinness wins Microsoft Power Women Award 2024

Microsoft has revealed that Ruth McGuinness, Head of Data and AI at Kainos, headquartered in Belfast has won the Microsoft Power Women Award 2024 in Ireland.

The Microsoft Power Women Awards are part of Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to inspire, promote and invest in a new generation of women tech talent. The awards shine a spotlight on some of the amazing women spearheading greater diversity and inclusion throughout the Microsoft Partner network.

In the second year of the awards, the programme expanded its reach covering Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, with nearly 400 applications from exceptional women who have made significant contributions to technology, and diversity and inclusion.

McGuinness is a prominent leader in the field of AI, overseeing one of Ireland’s largest AI teams with 150 members generating millions of pounds annually through delivery of AI technology programmes in both public and private sector organisations across Ireland, the UK, Europe, and North America. Her focus includes developing AI tooling that is robust, explainable, and trustworthy and advocating for ethical AI adoption.

Passionate about bridging the gap between academic research and industry, McGuinness is also the primary industry partner of the AI Research Centre (AIRC) at Ulster University, supporting 100+ AI researchers in trusted AI applications. She also supports the development of more diverse AI talent as a curator of AI CON, Ireland’s largest annual AI conference, while being a strong advocate for the robust regulation of AI across other public forums, both local and international.

Accepting the award, Ruth McGuinness said, “I’m very grateful to Microsoft Ireland for honouring me with this prestigious award. It is humbling to be included among such an incredible and inspiring cohort of powerhouse women in the Microsoft ecosystem across Western Europe.

“I also welcome the opportunity of accepting an award for my career during a period of extended maternity leave with my second child – it’s great to see how much progress has been made in terms of gender equity despite how much more we need to achieve!

“Women face a multitude of barriers when trying to have children and a career. While we know that only 26% of technology roles are held by women, further data shows that women often then depart those technology careers at this important stage in their lives, due to inadequate parental leave benefits, expensive childcare systems and a lack of access to good quality flexible working.

“The IT industry needs to continue to do more, to not only attract, but also to retain young women, through ensuring job roles come with an inclusive culture, flexible working hours, flexible roles, equity and fairness.

“I feel passionately about the mantra that “you can’t be what you can’t see” and believe that elevating diverse role models for women – such as through Microsoft’s Power Women Award – plays an incredibly important role in empowering others coming into the industry” – said Ruth McGuinness, Head of Data and AI at Kainos.

McGuinness will join the other 18 winners at the Microsoft Women’s Leadership Program 2nd Edition, a customised programme developed by Professor Jennifer Petriglieri at the INSEAD Business School in Fontainebleau, France.

Details of the Microsoft Power Women Awards can be found at: https://aka.ms/MicrosoftPowerWomenAward