Achievement Awards

Spotlight on Outstanding Achievements

STEM South West Awards

Recognising Excellence in Innovation, Education & Community

The STEM South West Awards shine a spotlight on outstanding achievements and leadership in STEM across four prestigious categories:

Industry – Honouring businesses making pioneering contributions and fostering STEM excellence
Education – Celebrating schools, colleges, and educators delivering inspiring STEM initiatives
Community – Recognising programmes that make a tangible difference in regional STEM engagement
Person of the Year – Highlighting an exceptional individual whose leadership and impact stand out

This year, 23 nominations across nine categories reflected an exceptional calibre of entries—showcasing the depth and diversity of STEM excellence in our region.

Inaugural STEM South West Awards 2024 Winners

STEM in Industry:

Company of the Year

The “STEM Company of the Year” award celebrates organisations leading the way in creating a proactive, inclusive and supportive environment for STEM, both within their own company and through outreach initiatives.

Small/Startup (up to 50 Employees): Stemwizz
Small to Medium (50-249 Employees): Designer Minds
Large (250+ Employees): Johnson & Johnson

STEM in Education:

Educational Initiative of the Year

The “STEM in Education” award celebrates educational institutes, departments and classroom-led initiatives (primary, secondary and third level) that show the way toward creating an inclusive and supportive educational environment for STEM.

Primary Level: I-FORM, SFI and Stryker
Secondary Level: Coláiste Daibhéid
Third Level: Tyndall National Institute

STEM in the Community:

TY Challenge of the Year

The “TY Challenge of the Year” award celebrates a STEM in Transition Year (TY) initiative that created an excellent development and learning opportunity, inspiring the next generation.

Transition Year Challenge of the Year: Coláiste Treasa, Kanturk
STEM in the Community Expo Award: Analog Devices
STEM Person of the Year: Bob Savage, Former CIO (EMEA) & Cork Site Lead, Dell Technologie

Recognising Leaders Driving STEM in the South West

The Awards, launched earlier this year by Michael McGrath European Commissioner-Designate, were designed to showcase the talent, innovation, and commitment in the region’s STEM sectors.

Bob Savage, who chaired the judging panel, and who was himself awarded the accolade of STEM Person of the Year as decided by the board of STEM SW added:

“Our winners exemplify the innovation, collaboration, and community engagement that are essential for continued STEM success. This region has consistently led in STEM excellence, and it’s clear that we’re nurturing a pipeline of talent and opportunity for years to come.”

BOB SAVAGE

Event Highlights

Held at the Vertigo Suite, County Hall Cork, the awards ceremony welcomed over 100 guests and featured more than 30 outstanding entries. A strong community turnout—celebrating local STEM leaders and initiatives—underscored the event’s growing significance in the South West.

Thanks to robust support from our sponsors, the evening offered an inspiring blend of celebration and impact.

Industry Group