Talent to Thrive: The Newsletter for Ireland's Medtech Sector - February 2025

Welcome to the Irish Medtech Skillnet newsletter!
In this issue
1. Thrive in 2025: March Course Highlights
1. Additional Funding Announced for SMEs on our BioInnovate 101 Programme
2. Drive Innovation and Digitalisation for your company
3. Digital Transformation Simplified
2. Industry News in Ireland
1. Ireland Boosts Industry-Academic Research with €2.5M Fellowship Fund
2. Ireland’s Citizens’ Jury Calls for AI Regulator in Healthcare
3. Crowd Funding to Ignite a €27M Investment Drive for 2025
4. Industry Insights - In Conversation with Ida Foley, Director of Regulatory Affairs, EMEA at Teleflex
3. Irish Medtech Skillnet in the Spotlight
1. On the Road: Site Visits to our Industry Partners
2. Meet the Team features Niamh Reynolds, Project Executive at Irish Medtech Skillnet



1. BioInnovate 101: Last Chance to Get on the Fast-Track to Profitable Health Tech Innovation - and Extra Funding Available for SMEs!

Master the essentials of BioInnovate’s BioDesign principles to supercharge your health tech innovation journey with our 3-day course diving into the tools, mindset, and strategy for creating breakthrough healthcare solutions while minimizing risk. You'll work in dynamic, multidisciplinary teams—including clinical, engineering, regulatory, and quality professionals—to tackle real-world healthcare challenges and turn ideas into impactful innovations.

Who Should Attend?
Perfect for innovators across industries:

• Engineers (R&D, Software, Data Science)
• Regulatory and Quality Professionals
• Marketing and Post-Market Professionals
• Healthcare Professionals

What You’ll Learn

• Pinpoint unmet medical needs with clinical and market insight.
• Navigate the BioInnovate process from problem to product.
• Hone your pitch: communicate challenges and solutions like a pro.
• Create razor-sharp filtering criteria for clinical priorities.
• Build and sell your value proposition with confidence.

Why Attend?

BioInnovate Ireland, a Stanford BioDesign affiliate, has a proven track record in training global MedTech leaders. This is your chance to join their ranks and bring your health tech ideas to life.

This programme utilises the European Social Fund +

The European Social Fund + supports training across a wide range of industry sectors and geographical regions. The aim of the ESF+ programme is to invest in people with the objective of achieving high employment levels, fair social protection and a skilled and resilient workforce for the future world of work.

Additional Subsidies Now Available for SMEs

We are pleased to offer a subsidised rate of €1,500 for SMEs participating in this programme, making it more accessible for smaller businesses to upskill their teams in health technology innovation.

Applications close on March 4th, and programme begins on March 11th, so don’t delay. Start here.

2. * Coming Soon * Digital Transformation, simplified: Master the Process, Maximise the Value

In the fast-paced MedTech and Manufacturing sectors, digital transformation is no longer a choice—it’s essential. This industry-driven programme is specifically designed to empower professionals with the knowledge, tools, and strategies required to lead successful digital transformation initiatives.

Over four engaging and interactive in-person sessions, participants will develop the expertise to identify opportunities, create strategic roadmaps, and drive meaningful change that delivers measurable business outcomes.

Participants will delve into key aspects of digital transformation tailored specifically to the MedTech industry, including:

• Complete a detailed Digital Maturity Assessment for the organisation
• Identify and assess key digitalisation initiatives
• Learn to prioritise projects and secure the resources necessary for successful implementation.
• Understand availability of Funding Agencies to support your organisation
• Build cross-functional teams that are equipped to execute strategies with cohesion and confidence.
• Understand the change management processes necessary to sustain transformation efforts.
• Establish and Launch your Digital Transformation Plan

This programme is your opportunity to become a driving force behind innovation and operational excellence in the MedTech sector. By mastering the process of digital transformation, you will not only simplify complexity but also unlock unprecedented value for your organisation. Watch this space for booking details, coming soon.

3. Digitalisation of Manufacturing - Micro-credential Modules starting in March

Core Technical Modules from our MSc Master of Science in Digitalisation of Manufacturing are now available to attend as stand-alone accredited modules, also known as micro-credentials.

Micro-credentials are small, accredited courses designed to meet the demands of learners, enterprise and organisations, which offer a highly flexible, bite sized and accessible way of upskilling and reskilling.

The Data Analytics & Machine Learning module will review the application of statistics and experimental design to applications in industry. The aim of the module is to enable the learner to program statistical, and in particular, machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) applications, based on industrial data sets using standard mathematical tools. Upcoming dates: 4 days on campus in TUS Midwest, Limerick (28th March, 23rd & 24th April, and 17th May). Closing Date for applications: 25th March Learn more about this module here.

The Digital Twins in Production module will investigate the increasing digitalisation of manufacturing, from advanced product design to production process models and the use of visualisation techniques in manufacturing support. The relevant value and application of Design Tools, Digital Twins, Simulation Models, and Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality, will be investigated. Upcoming dates: 4 days on campus in TUS Midwest, Limerick (29th March, 25th & 26th April, and 16th May). Closing Date for applications: 25th March Learn more about this module here.

Maximise your 2025 Training Budget with our Subsidised Programmes

Enrolment is now open for the programmes above and many more on our website!

Irish Medtech Skillnet develops and delivers transformative, industry-led training solutions to help companies of all sizes in the medical technology and manufacturing sectors to grow and retain best-in-class talent, supporting the future success and competitiveness of medtech in Ireland. Our training programmes are subsidised by the Government of Ireland and the European Union, saving companies up to 35% on standard course fees, with minimal barriers to access. Whether you are a start-up or a multinational, all Irish companies can access our funded training programmes with no paid membership required. View our 2025 Programme Catalogue here.

Ireland Boosts Industry-Academic Research with €2.5M Fellowship Fund

Research Ireland has committed €2.5 million to fund 28 industry-focused fellowships under the Industry Research, Development, and Innovation Fellowships (IRDIF) Programme. The initiative connects researchers from eight leading Irish universities with 22 science and technology companies, driving innovation in key sectors.

Spanning 12 to 24 months, projects include:

• AI advancements: Workday researchers developing AI tools to detect harmful content.
• Medical innovation: BD Research Centre Ireland working on advanced cell-sorting technology to combat male infertility.
• Climate risk intelligence: Climate Matters creating tools to assess infrastructure vulnerabilities due to climate change.

With industry partners contributing €1.7 million, the program reinforces Ireland’s commitment to fostering research with real-world applications.

Minister James Lawless TD emphasized the importance of industry-academic collaboration in tackling global challenges, while Celine Fitzgerald, interim CEO of Research Ireland, highlighted the program’s role in enhancing Ireland’s research and innovation landscape. By bridging academia and industry, the IRDIF Programme ensures that cutting-edge research translates into market-ready solutions, strengthening Ireland’s position as a global leader in innovation. Learn more here.

Ireland’s Citizens’ Jury Calls for AI Regulator in Healthcare

An Irish citizens' jury has urged the government to establish an independent AI regulator and commissioner to oversee AI use in healthcare. The citizens’ jury was organised by the Irish Platform for Patient Organisations, Science and Industry (IPPOSI), and convened between September and December 2024 to offer the public’s perspective around the adoption of AI in Ireland’s healthcare sector. The jury—comprising 24 diverse individuals—delivered 25 recommendations emphasizing ethical AI deployment, patient rights, and oversight.

Key proposals include:

• AI Regulation: A statutory body to license, monitor, and enforce AI standards.
• Patient Protection: An AI commissioner to act as a watchdog safeguarding public interests.
• National Strategy: A five-year plan for AI integration, ensuring human oversight and ethical use.
Data privacy is a major concern, with the jury supporting AI-driven health innovations but insisting on patient autonomy, including clear consent and opt-out options. They also stress government funding for robust AI systems, workforce training, and a contingency plan for AI failures.

Professor Richard Greene of University College Cork highlights AI’s potential to enhance, not replace, healthcare professionals, while juror Kim Lennard underscores the need for strong, independent oversight.

The recommendations align with Ireland’s AI Advisory Council, reinforcing the country’s push for responsible AI governance in healthcare. Read more here.

Spark Crowdfunding Ignites €27M Investment Drive for 2025

Dublin-based Spark Crowdfunding is set to further ignite the investment scene, targeting €27 million in funding for 2025.

The platform plans to boost its portfolio by facilitating investments in 20 companies this year, up from 15 last year - 11 of which were Medtech companies. Co-founder Chris Burge emphasizes accessibility, noting that investors can get involved with as little as €100, and no upper spending limit.

This ambitious goal reflects Spark's commitment to bringing investment opportunities to a mainstream audience and fuelling Ireland's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Read more about this opportunity here.


Industry Insights: In conversation with Ida Foley, Director of Regulatory Affairs, EMEA at Teleflex

Ida Foley is the Director of Regulatory Affairs, EMEA at Teleflex, and an industry veteran in the Quality and Regulatory landscape.

Ida is also one of 14 industry representatives participating in the Irish Medtech Skillnet Steering Committee, where she provides vital input and influence on our current programmes and the development of future programmes being built “for industry, by industry”.

Ida shared her experiences and perspectives on the Medtech industry when we sat down with her recently.

Ida - Can you tell us about your current role within Teleflex, and the path that brought you here?

I am currently the Director of Regulatory Affairs, EMEA at Teleflex, where I lead efforts to ensure our medical products remain in compliance with regulatory requirements and are approved for the EMEA market.

My journey at Teleflex began over 13 years ago in 2011 when I joined as a Quality Systems Specialist in Post Market Surveillance. From there, I transitioned to Quality Systems Specialist QARA, and after gaining much experience and a BSc in Quality Engineering, I transitioned into a managerial role, stepping into the position of Quality Systems Manager.

Moving into management required a change in mindset, where I had to balance both the technical aspects of the role and the need to guide and support my team effectively. Having spent most of my career in quality I wanted to expand my knowledge in regulatory affairs. I decided to do this by enrolling in the Master’s programme in Medical Technology Regulatory Affairs at Atlantic Technological University, which is one of the Master’s programmes funded by the Irish Medtech Skillnet. This allowed me to expand my expertise beyond quality and into regulatory affairs, it helped me to grow as a leader and take on more strategic responsibilities within the organization, leading me to my current role. Throughout my career, Teleflex has been incredibly supportive, offering me opportunities to grow professionally and take on new challenges. Their commitment to my development and the support of the Irish Medtech Skillnet-funded MSc programme have been key factors in my ability to advance and thrive within the company and the Medtech sector.

You are an advocate for continuous learning, as seen through your active support on the Irish Medtech Skillnet Steering Committee, and also through Teleflex’s engagement with Irish Medtech Skillnet-funded programmes. Can you share your perspective on the importance of industry collaboration in shaping training initiatives? What role do companies like Teleflex play in ensuring that employees have access to world-class upskilling opportunities?

Industry-led training is absolutely essential for the continued growth and development of both individuals and the wider sector. As the Medtech sector is constantly evolving with new regulations and technologies, training initiatives that are shaped by industry needs ensure that employees and organisations are prepared for future challenges.

The industry can identify emerging trends and skills gaps in Ireland, then collaborate with the sector through the Irish Medtech Skillnet to create and implement targeted programmes. Companies like Teleflex play a pivotal role by not only offering financial support to employees but also creating an environment where they are encouraged to develop their skills and engage with the sector to develop such programmes.

By actively participating in initiatives like the Irish Medtech Skillnet Steering Committee, we ensure that the training programmes meet the real-world needs of the industry. The collaboration between companies and educational institutions like ATU and University of Galway creates a solid foundation for the future of the sector, making it possible for individuals to access world-class upskilling opportunities that can have a real impact on their career and the industry.

Congratulations on completing the Masters in Medical Technology Regulatory Affairs, which was developed and funded by Irish Medtech Skillnet in collaboration with Irish Medtech. Can you tell us about your experience undertaking the programme and the impact it has had on your career? Was it worth it? Did the programme fulfil your hopes and meet your expectations? Were there particular learnings or insights that have proved especially valuable in your role?

Thank you!

Completing the Master’s programme was definitely a challenging yet rewarding experience. The course gave me an in-depth understanding of the complexities surrounding medical device regulations, which has been essential for my career growth. Beyond just theoretical knowledge, it offered practical insights that I can directly apply to my work at Teleflex.

Looking back, I can confidently say it was absolutely worth the effort. Since graduating, I’ve had the privilege of being published twice, which has been a great accomplishment.

One of the most valuable aspects of the programme was learning how to navigate the ever-evolving global regulatory landscape. Understanding these shifts and how to adapt to them has been key in my role. Another highlight was the opportunity to expand my professional network within the industry. It’s proven to be incredibly helpful for problem-solving and staying ahead of regulatory changes. Overall, the Master’s programme equipped me with a solid foundation that has not only enhanced my knowledge but also opened doors for growth and collaboration within the field.

The medtech sector is evolving rapidly, and staying ahead of regulatory changes is critical for all participants. How have you seen regulatory affairs transform in recent years, and what role does ongoing training and upskilling play in ensuring compliance and innovation?

Regulatory affairs has evolved significantly, especially with the rise of more stringent global regulations and the growing complexity of healthcare technologies. We've seen increased focus on patient safety, sustainability, and international harmonization of regulations.

To keep up with these changes, ongoing training and upskilling are essential. It ensures compliance with the latest regulatory standards while allowing companies to continue innovating in a safe and efficient manner. For example, understanding the nuances of the EU’s MDR or the changing FDA requirements is crucial, and having the right skills and knowledge helps not only to maintain compliance but also to streamline product development processes.

Thank you for being featured as one of the case studies in our report “Empowering Women in STEM: A Gender Representation Study for the Health Technology Sector in Ireland”, which is being released in April by Irish Medtech Skillnet in collaboration with Connected Health Skillnet and First Polymer Training Skillnet.

This study aims to identify enablers and barriers to female participation in technical and leadership roles. Based on your own experiences as a woman in the medtech industry, what do you see as some of the key challenges and opportunities for women in the sector? What actions do you think the industry can take to better support gender parity, particularly in leadership and technical roles?

One of the key challenges women face in the Medtech industry, as I’ve personally experienced, is self-doubt and the imposter syndrome that often holds us back from taking risks or pursuing leadership roles. Many women feel they need to be “perfect” before speaking up or leading, whereas men often feel more confident asserting themselves.

The industry must continue to create environments where women feel more confident in their abilities and are encouraged to step into technical and leadership roles. Mentorship programmes, visibility of female leaders, and fostering a culture that encourages women to voice their opinions and take ownership of their career paths can help bridge this gap. It’s also crucial that organizations focus on promoting gender equality in leadership roles by ensuring women have access to the same development opportunities as their male counterparts.

Finally, Ida, what is the primary legacy you want to leave for the world?

Irish Medtech Skillnet in the Spotlight

Irish Medtech Skillnet on the Road

Promoting our transformative training solutions “on the road” is all in a day’s work for our team! These events keep us close to our industry audience, and drive awareness of our industry-led, funded programmes which attendees can avail of.

If you’re planning an event or career day to support continuing professional development for your employees, we would love to have a stand there! We can also participate in industry events as speakers or panel participants. Here’s how our 2025 Tour schedule is shaping up. Please get in touch if we can add your event to the list.

• In February we met with a Delegation from Singapore Institute of Technology in Skillnet Ireland Head Office
• We will be sponsoring Irish Medtech’s QA/RA Forum on Thursday 6 March 2025, Radisson Blu Hotel, Limerick
• We will exhibit at the J&J Vision Further Education Expo on Wednesday 19 March 2025 in J&J, Limerick
• We will be sponsoring Irish Medtech’s Sterility Forum on Wednesday 9 April 2025, in the Sheraton Hotel, Athlone
• We will exhibit at the Tuition Assistance Programme in Cook Medical, Limerick on Wednesday 30 April 2025.
• We will exhibit at the Medical Technology Ireland on 24 & 25 September 2025 at the Galway Racecourse.
• We will be sponsoring Irish Medtech’s Medtech Rising on Thursday 4 December 2025 in the Galmont Hotel, Galway.



Meet the Team: Niamh Reynolds, Project Executive with Irish Medtech Skillnet

Niamh Reynolds is our dynamic project and operations specialist with a strong track record in managing complex initiatives and driving process improvements. As a key member of the Irish Medtech Skillnet team, she plays a crucial role in financial operations, programme development, and system implementation to support Ireland’s thriving Medtech sector.

With a diverse background spanning the arts, heritage, and business sectors in Spain, New Zealand and Ireland, Niamh brings a unique, cross-disciplinary perspective to her work. Her ability to navigate multifaceted projects led her to pivotal roles on initiatives which will enhance training accessibility and industry collaboration. In all she does, Niamh is committed to streamlining processes that empower people to adapt, compete, and thrive in a rapidly evolving and increasingly digital landscape.

“I joined Irish Medtech Skillnet because I was drawn to the opportunity to work on innovative projects that directly support the growth and competitiveness of Ireland’s Medtech sector. I enjoy the challenge of developing streamlined solutions that enhance operational efficiency and contribute to the success of training initiatives.”

Please connect with Niamh via LinkedIn here, and reach out to her if she can offer you any assistance. Niamh and the entire Irish Medtech Skillnet team are here to help!

Thank you for joining us in this edition of Talent to Thrive, the monthly newsletter updates from Irish Medtech Skillnet for Ireland’s Medtech Sector! We look forward to continuing our journey of learning and innovation together in future and we plan to bring you these updates regularly.

Connect With Us on social media for real-time updates, industry insights, and networking opportunities:

LinkedIn: @IrishMedtechSkillnet
Twitter: @MedtechSkillnet
Facebook: @IrishMedtchSkillnet