Intel, Fastrack to IT (FIT) and the Kildare and Wicklow Education and Training Board have launched a new manufacturing skills programme for women in Ireland

The Advanced Manufacturing Technician Maintenance Skills pilot initiative is aiming to help women pursue careers in Ireland's advanced manufacturing sector by giving them skills training and hands-on experience.

The organisations said that manufacturing is "one of the most dynamic and vibrant sectors" in Ireland and is expected to see increasing growth and complexity in the years ahead with the impact of industry 4.0 and the adoption of digital technology. Ireland is home to many manufacturing companies, producing everything from computer chips, plastics and pharmaceuticals to bulk chemicals, electrical components and control systems.

The Advanced Manufacturing Technician Maintenance Skills programme kicks off in April of this year. It's geared towards those interested in hands-on problem-solving and troubleshooting for manufacturing equipment and requires no prior manufacturing knowledge or work experience.

The course will last for 48 weeks and those who complete it will receive a level-six National Framework of Qualifications award. The organisers said this will make participants well placed for a career in a technology role across any sector. It will teach skills across electronics, electrical, mechanical and programmable logic controllers, as well as project management and problem-solving. Participants will also undertake a 12-week integrated work placement to help them enter the advanced manufacturing workforce.