Robots and AI Feature at Sligo Engineering Fair

The Sligo Engineering Fair is produced by ATU in association with Science Foundation Ireland, Engineers Ireland NW and global healthcare company Abbott.

This year’s fair had a robotic focus and examined how robots and automation are changing the way we work, live and play!  

Highlights of the packed programme of events included “Robots War,” fan-powered car workshops, 3D printing demonstrations and Lego workshops with Bricks4Kids.

This year also saw the return of Abbott’s Engineering Room with hands-on engineering experiments and interactive stations for attendees to learn about different aspects of STEM.

Niall Plunkett, site director of Abbott’s diagnostics business in Sligo, welcomed the return of the fair. “At Abbott we are committed to building the diverse, innovative workforce of tomorrow, and an important part of this work is inspiring the youth of today to become the innovators and inventors that will lead the future of healthcare. Creating enthusiasm and excitement for engineering in our young people is a fantastic way to support this goal.”  

Dr Ruth Freeman, Director of SFI’s Science for Society Programme said: “SFI is delighted to work with the Atlantic Technological University and support the Sligo Engineering Fair through the SFI Discover Programme. Family-friendly events such as these provide important opportunities for a diversity of audiences to enjoy science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM), and awaken their curiosity. They can also inspire our young people to explore exciting careers in STEM, which in turn supports Ireland’s future skills needs, shaping a better tomorrow for all.”

Head of College and Head of Faculty of Engineering & Design at ATU Sligo, Una Parsons said the event highlights the breadth and scale of engineering activity in the region,

“Automation and robotics are no longer a thing of sci-fi movies but are part of our everyday life.   While the primary aim of this event is to promote engineering and technology careers to young people, particularly female students who we want to get more involved in STEM. This event aims to illuminate the public about the developments in robotic engineering and how Sligo and the western region are at the forefront of automated manufacturing in Ireland.   The event will also equip the younger generation with a better understanding of just how expansive and fun engineering can be.”