Exploring Advanced Manufacturing Through Real-World STEM Experiences
Part 1 of the Ideas Made Real: Transition Year(TY) Programme is delivered by Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR), Ireland’s leading independent research and technology organisation. IMR connects over 150 companies and a national network of industry, education, and public sector partners. The Ideas Made Real Programme draws on this expertise to provide students with hands-on exposure to innovation, design thinking, and the future of advanced manufacturing.
Running from September to November, this immersive experience supports schools and educators with curriculum-aligned content and real-world industry engagement. It builds core STEM and soft skills in students while highlighting pathways into future careers.
What to Expect
This blended learning experience is carefully designed to balance classroom learning, professional development, and industry exposure:
- Teacher Training: Professional development and classroom-ready STEM teaching resources. (In-person)
- Lesson Module 1: Introduction to advanced manufacturing and design thinking. (Online)
- Lesson Module 2: Empathy mapping, problem definition, and low-fidelity prototyping. (Online)
- Company Visit: Students visit a local facility to explore real-world applications of STEM and meet industry professionals. (In-person)
- FIT Skills Day: Participation in practical, industry-led activities exploring careers in STEM and manufacturing. (In-person).
This programme empowers students with the skills and motivation to engage with STEM careers, while supporting schools with a structured and impactful TY offering.
Ideas Made Real: Transition Year Programme 2025-2026 Phase 1
Once booked, a lead facilitator from the IMR STEM Education Team will be assigned. The team combines instructional design, industry expertise, and a deep commitment to hands-on STEM education.
Meet Luana Raggi, STEM Education & Industry Engagement Programme Coordinator Irish Manufacturing Research. Luana specialises in designing meaningful STEM learning experiences that bridge education and industry, leveraging over 15 years of expertise in instructional design, workforce development, and human-centred learning solutions. Connect with Luana on LinkedIn to explore her expertise.
Meet Ben Collopy, Training Specialist at Irish Manufacturing Research. Ben brings a wealth of experience in developing, implementing, and managing high-quality blended learning solutions across varied educational environments. Ben’s strong interpersonal and communication skills ensure effective collaboration with stakeholders at every level. Connect with Ben on LinkedIn.