Aisling Finnegan, a Biomedical Engineering student at Munster Technological University, was amongst 82 students from across seven Irish universities who have been awarded scholarships as part of Johnson & Johnson’s prestigious Women in STEM2D (WiSTEM2D) Undergraduate Awards at its national event held in Thomond Park Stadium, Limerick.
The Award recognises outstanding female students in STEM2D disciplines: Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, Manufacturing and Design. 82 students from Trinity College Dublin, University of Limerick, University College Cork, University of Galway, Munster Technology University, Atlantic Technological University and Maynooth University have received awards as part of the programme. This marks a 33% increase in recipients compared to 2023, highlighting the programme’s growing impact and recognition of talented female students in STEM2D fields.
Aisling, is from Ballygarvan and a past pupil of Carrigaline Community School. At school, her favourite subjects were maths and biology. She loves puzzles and problem solving, and would have liked to pursue a career in medicine. “I would never have got the points and I didn’t want to get my hands dirty, but when I saw Biomedical Engineering in MTU I knew it was made for me” she told The Carrigdhoun.
Aisling conducted her placement with Boston Scientific on Model Farm Road in production operations. “I was responsible for tracking and optimising production outputs and solving on the line. “I loved this role because I was able to work with all departments from engineering to quality to research and development.”
Aisling is currently preparing to move to France to conduct her thesis research with the University of Rouen.
During her studies, her curiosity in orthopaedics and material science and following her education, she would love to pursue a career in this area and further her research, hence her interest in Johnstone & Johnstone.
Aisling’s department administrator Norma Welch sent out the application form for the Johnson & Johnson’s WISTEM2D Award. Aisling answered the questionnaire based on her experience as a woman in STEM and was chosen for an interview. Three days after completing the interview Aisling was thrilled to receive an email to say she had been chosen.
This is the ninth year of the annual awards programme in Ireland, highlighting Johnson & Johnson’s dedication to promoting female excellence in STEM. A day-long event, carefully structured to foster their growth and development was hosted by the Company at Thomond Park stadium. Attendees availed of workshops and breakout sessions, gaining essential skills and knowledge to prepare them for successful careers.
Research published by the Central Statistics Office in February 2024 positions Ireland as the EU leader in STEM graduate output, but with a notable gender distribution: 53.0 male STEM graduates per 1,000 persons, compared to 27.4 female graduates. This represents the largest gender differential among all EU member states, highlighting the continued importance of initiatives focused on STEM education participation.
Anna Rafferty, WiSTEM2D University Sponsor and Senior Director, Government Affairs Supply Chain, Technical Operation and Risk, Johnson & Johnson EMEA, said“Reflecting on the remarkable growth of the WiSTEM2D programme in Ireland is truly inspiring. Since our launch in 2016, this initiative has grown to support nearly 600 students across seven universities, creating pathways for young women to pursue rewarding careers in STEM fields.”
“Our commitment to empowering women in these critical areas is not just a business priority; it's a core value that drives our innovation and progress. By investing in their potential, we are not only shaping the future of health and technology but also fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce essential for tackling the challenges of tomorrow. Together, we are igniting a new generation of leaders who will redefine what’s possible in STEM, paving the way for a brighter, more equitable future for all.”
Each award recipient is set to embark on an inspiring journey, gaining access to a student award, industry mentorship, leadership training, career workshops, Johnson & Johnson site visits, and participation in WiSTEM2D events aimed at bolstering their future in STEM careers. Recipients of the WiSTEM2D Award were also presented with bespoke framed glass artwork crafted by Fermoy-based artist Suzanne O'Sullivan, to mark their achievements.
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