ATU celebrates the opening of PEM Technology Gateway, paving the way for engineering excellence
The Precision Engineering and Manufacturing (PEM) Technology Gateway, part of the Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Engineering department of the Sligo campus, had its official opening, inviting industry leaders, innovators, and partners to join in the celebration on Thursday, 5 October 2023.
The occasion showcased the state-of-the-art equipment available to industries in the region and nationwide and provided a platform to introduce the Gateway team. Attendees had the chance to learn how the PEM Technology Gateway can be a driving force behind their industry's success and regional development, and to explore cutting-edge technology, network with industry experts, and gain valuable insights into Gateway's extensive offerings.
The PEM Technology Gateway has built on ATU Sligo’s strength and history as the National Training Centre for Toolmakers in Ireland.
Co-funded by Enterprise Ireland and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) through the Northern & Western Regional Programme, the Gateway has been hosted at the Institute of Technology Sligo (now ATU Sligo) since 2016, providing a gateway for industry into ATU Sligo, enabling access to the right academic expertise for their needs.
The event featured speakers including Dr Russell Macpherson, PEM Technology Gateway Manager; Dr Orla Flynn, President of Atlantic Technological University, Úna Parsons, Head of College, Sligo, and Head of the Faculty of Engineering & Design and Dr David Tormey, Academic Director of the PEM Research Centre. Their insights and perspectives added depth to the discussions on research, development and innovation, and technology's role in shaping the future of industries.
"We eagerly anticipated the official opening of the PEM Technology Gateway, an exciting platform for innovation, industry support and regional development," said Dr Macpherson at the Gateway. "We were delighted to welcome our guests and the forging of valuable connections that will drive research, development and innovation."
Denis Kelly, Director of the NWRA, welcomed the launch as part of the ERDF co-funded Northern and Western Regional Programme, saying that it will “contribute to the development of a smarter, more resilient, inclusive, sustainable, and competitive economy in our Region".
About
The PEM Technology Gateway, based at Finisklin Business Park, Sligo, is a hub of research, development and innovation dedicated to supporting regional and national industries. We provide industry-focused RD&I services in precision engineering, manufacturing, materials technologies, and innovation. Our mission is to offer cutting-edge technology solutions that empower businesses to develop new products, processes, and services by leveraging the research expertise available through ATU Sligo. Our services complement industry needs, and our equipment is readily accessible to businesses, allowing the production of one-off test pieces, prototyping, or short-run production. We are committed to driving regional development through collaborative research, development and innovation.
Photo caption L-R: Una Parsons, Head of College Sligo &
Head of Faculty of Engineering & Design, Dr David Tormey, Academic Director of the PEM Research Centre, Clíodhna Carroll, Business Development Lead PEM Technology Gateway, Dr Russell Macpherson, PEM Technology Gateway Manager, and Dr Orla Flynn, ATU President.