NEW COURSE WILL ENABLE UPSKILLING
Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) has announced details of a brand-new part-time course in Digital Design and Fabrication which gets under way in January 2021. The level 6 accredited course is a joint collaboration between DkIT’s Department of Electronic and Mechanical Engineering, the Creative Spark enterprise hub and the Dundalk Chamber Skillnet.
The new one-year programme is open to individuals from a variety of sectors seeking to improve their knowledge of product design, prototyping and fabrication using digital computer-controlled processes. Using a mixture of classroom sessions, hands-on lab work and self-directed project work, this would will facilitate learners to engage in the creative design process, appreciate design principals as a problem solving activity and gain understanding of the role of digital fabrication in a design skillset.
Aidan Browne, Head of Business Development & Innovation at DkIT noted ‘ In today’s challenging business environment, strong skills in product development and creative digital design are vital if companies are to compete and diversify as market conditions change.’
He said they had recognised a high demand for these skills among employers across the region and were pleased to be able respond to this market need with this new industry-focused accredited programme.
Sarah Daly, Executive Director of Creative Spark, added: ‘ The needs of modern-day manufacturing align incredibly well with contemporary artistic
methodologies and creative technologies, and we are delighted to bring our expertise in this area to co-deliver this programme alongside DkIT.’
She explained that ‘ the new Digital Design & Fabrication certificate course is the perfect combination of creativity and innovation. The programme is highly practical in nature and is intended to give students the ability to gain knowledge of design thinking, product design, rapid prototyping and digital fabrication. These are critical skills required of any enterprise seeking to develop new products to go market. In addition to learning about the fundamentals of design methodology, students will develop an understanding of creative design methods, material selection and manufacturing processes used for rapid prototyping.’
Aidan Callan of Dundalk Chamber, Skillnet and Thomas McDonagh the Skillnet Net
work Promoter and director UHY FDW said:’Digital Design and Fabrication is a 21st-century skill and is in major demand by our regional enterprise sector. We are delighted work with DkIT and Creative Spark to address this skills gap and to make the training more affordable and accessible to businesses by offering a subsidising up to 30% per eligible participants. Knowledge-driven businesses and industries are key drivers of regional economies and it is important that we continue to stimulate through accredited training and professional development.’
To be eligible for subsidised training by Skillnet, applicants must be employed and resident in the Republic of Ireland. Further details on funding eligibility can be found through contacting Aidan Callan directly at aidan.callan@dundalkskillnet.ie while applications for the course itself can be made through DkIT’s own website.