At the heart of that transformation is FIT (Fastrack into Information Technology), a not-for-profit organisation that has been operating since 1999 and working closely with employers to address real-world skills gaps. Today, FIT plays a central role in Ireland’s modern tech apprenticeship ecosystem, helping employers grow talent from the ground up while opening doors for people who may not see traditional third-level education as the right fit. 

“FIT is a not-for-profit led by a board of directors with generations of C-suite experience in the technology and related sectors,” said Andrew Finn, director of academic affairs and programme development at FIT. “Close relationships with entities such as IBM, Accenture, SAP, Deloitte, AWS, GCS, and Amundi, among others, position our organisation to promote the tech skills agenda and the potential of the further education sector to address skills deficits in Ireland’s increasingly digitised economy.” 

That employer-led focus has allowed FIT to scale rapidly. Each year, more than 5,000 learners access online tech training through FIT partnerships, while a further 3,500 receive employability supports across its initiatives. 

But it is the Tech Apprenticeship programmes, first launched in 2018, that best capture the organisation’s impact. 

“Since 2018, FIT has continued to expand one of our flagship projects, the Tech Apprenticeship initiative,” Finn explained. “These programmes now represent nearly eight years of operations, with 1,050 apprentices having commenced programmes with 340 employers across Ireland, consisting of a healthy mix of small, medium and large entities from the private and public sectors.” 

Our growing scale has made a positive impact on resourcing in the tech sector 

The two-year apprenticeships lead to Quality and Qualifications Ireland-accredited advanced certificate awards at NFQ Level 6. Discipline areas currently span software development, computer networking and cybersecurity, with a data analytics programme planned for launch later in 2026. Crucially, they challenge the long-held assumption that graduate-level qualifications are the only route into high-value tech roles. 

“The introduction of these programmes has led to a dramatic shift in the tech sector’s reliance on graduate-level qualifications, which has been one of the initiative’s biggest successes,” said Finn. “These programmes continue to grow, and I’m proud, along with my team, of that achievement.” 

Remaining relevant in a sector defined by constant change is no mean feat. For FIT, staying ahead means deep engagement with employers and forensic attention to emerging skills needs, rather than chasing headlines. 

“It is not so much about looking at trends as about taking a forward-facing approach, examining specific skill requirements within given sectors in forensic-level detail,” said Finn. “A good example of this is the theme of Gen-AI adoption. To ensure we stay ahead of the curve, FIT has looked further into the practical use of these AI-driven technologies at the coalface.” 

That emphasis on practical application is what distinguishes apprenticeships from more traditional academic routes. Finn speaks from personal experience when he describes their value. 

“Nearly 30 years ago, I undertook a cabinetmaking apprenticeship. This was very low tech and traditional, but I gained useful transferable skills, exposure to disciplined work environments and importantly, learned directly from those more accomplished and skilled.” 

For candidates now considering their career options, his advice is straightforward. “If you’re looking for hands-on learning in a technology role, with lots of work experience, a statutory apprenticeship fits that mould better than other options, in my opinion.” 

And the future is bright for tech apprentices: at a time when artificial intelligence is reshaping workplaces at speed, FIT sees its tech apprenticeships not as vulnerable to this disruption, but as resilient. 

“Paradigm change is sometimes once-in-a-lifetime. We are living through that now, as Gen-AI technologies are reorganising how businesses operate. Our belief is that the functional and broad range of roles our programmes target will be augmented by AI in the future rather than completely replaced.” 

Just as important is who gets access to these opportunities. FIT has made inclusion a central pillar of its work, with initiatives such as Women Choose Tech and HERO in Tech. 

“In the FIT context, there is no shortage of candidates willing to get involved in the programme,” Finn notes. “Participation by women in tech apprenticeships currently exceeds 25 per cent; in 2018, that statistic was less than 10 per cent. FIT is now targeting 33 per cent by the end of 2027.” 

Looking ahead, Finn sees FIT’s role as both economic and social. “We started from a point of zero apprentices in situ and are now at a stage where we feel our growing scale has made a positive impact on resourcing in the tech sector. I’d hope I’ve made some impact in ensuring these programmes persist for the betterment of the country into the future.” 

Interested in learning more about the benefits of hiring Tech Apprentices? Download our Employer Brochure today. 

The post Building tech talent from the ground up: Business Post Feature appeared first on FIT - Tech Apprenticeships and Courses.

At FIT, we actively encourage candidates to find their own employer and we support you every step of the way.

If you’re motivated, proactive and ready to start your career in tech, here’s exactly how to do it.

STEP 1: Apply for the Tech Apprenticeship Programme on the FIT Website

Your first step is to submit your application through the FIT website.

Applying ensures:

· You are registered in the apprenticeship system

· FIT can assess your suitability

· Our team can support you throughout the employer search process

Once you’ve applied, you’re officially on the pathway and ready to start connecting with employers.

STEP 2: Visit the SOLAS Website to Find Registered Employers

Next, go to the SOLAS website. Under the Programmes section, click on “Apprenticeships” and “Find Apprenticeship Employers.” – or click here!

This page provides a full list of registered employers approved to hire tech apprentices across Ireland.

These companies have already committed to apprenticeship programmes, which means they understand the model and are open to hiring apprentices.

STEP 3: Research the Companies that Interest You

Take time to explore the list and identify companies that align with:

· Your interests (software development, networking, cybersecurity, data analytics, etc.)

· Your location

· The type of organisation you’d like to work in (SME, corporate, public sector, start-up)

Visit their websites. Review their LinkedIn pages. Learn about their culture, values and projects.

This research helps you:

· Personalise your outreach

· Stand out from other applicants

· Show genuine interest in their business

STEP 4: Reach out Directly

Once you’ve identified companies you’d love to work with, reach out directly.

You can:

· Submit an enquiry via their website

· Connect with a hiring manager on LinkedIn

· Email their HR or careers team

Introduce yourself as a registered tech apprenticeship applicant through FIT and explain why you’re interested in joining their organisation.

Being proactive demonstrates initiative and employers will value this quality!

STEP 5: Use FIT’s Support

You are not alone in this process. FIT are here to help you land the career you’ve always dreamed of!

We can support you by:

· Providing a professional email template for contacting employers

· Offering guidance on how to structure your outreach

· Advising on interview and CV preparation

· Answering any questions about the apprenticeship process

Why Finding Your Own Employer Works

Many apprentices secure roles faster by taking a direct approach. Employers appreciate candidates who:

· Show initiative

· Demonstrate motivation

· Have researched their company

· Clearly understand why they want to work there

Finding your own employer turns you from a passive applicant into an active candidate. Don’t miss out – start the process today!

The post How to Find Your Own Employer as a Tech Apprentice: Top Tips appeared first on FIT - Tech Apprenticeships and Courses.

In a recent Linkedin Live session, FIT were joined by Vaultree, a Cork-based SME which stands at the forefront of data security, committed to protecting privacy and fostering trust in digital interactions. 

During the session, FIT & Vaultree explored the typical cybersecurity challenges they faced, how AI affected their cyber strategy and the ways they overcame them. 

Listen back on the session here. 

The post Could your team spot a cyber attack before it’s too late?  appeared first on FIT - Tech Apprenticeships and Courses.

Upcoming Courses: 

The course will be delivered over a 3-week period and is a combination of online learning (5 x Modules) and in-classroom learning by an expert tutor.  

You will be required to attend all workshops to successfully complete the course. 

Why Join this Course? 

• Gain essential AI skills: Understand the basics of AI through high-quality courses designed by Google and external partners 

• Practical application: Learn how to apply AI tools in your workplace 

• Enhance your employability: Upskill and open up new job opportunities 

• Free training: Enrolling in courses is free 

Who Can Apply? 

These courses are open to anyone who want to improve their AI skills. You do not need previous AI experience to apply for this training. 

You must be 18 years or older to apply. 

Please note you are required to attend the Ballina, Co. Mayo and Glasnevin, Co. Dublin courses in-person. Please only apply if you are living within commutable distance to the course location. 

How to Apply? 

If you are interested, please apply by filling out the Expression of Interest forms below. 

Please note, that both programmes are taking place in-person or ONLINE, so please apply if you are within commutable distance to either location. 

• Ballina, Co. Mayo 2026: 

Google AI Essentials Course Ballina, March 2026 – Expression of Interest Form 

• Glasnevin, Co. Dublin 2026: 

Google AI Essentials Course Glasnevin – Expression of Interest Form March 2026 

• ONLINE: 

Google AI Essentials Course ONLINE – Expression of Interest Form March 2026 

For more information on these programmes or to gain information on more course dates, please contact our team on [email protected] today. 

The post Unlock Your Future with Free AI Training appeared first on FIT - Tech Apprenticeships and Courses.

The project signals a commitment to further bolster Europe’s advanced digital expertise – particularly in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and High-Performance Computing (HPC) – with the aim of equipping the workforce and public sector to meet the strategic goals of the EU’s Path to the Digital Decade by 2030.  

A European effort to build critical digital capacity 

The transition to sustainable, low-carbon mobility demands more than new vehicles: it requires robust computational infrastructure and talent capable of designing, simulating and deploying complex transport and energy-efficient systems. Yet across Europe many SMEs, startups and public authorities still lack the AI and HPC proficiency needed to implement data-driven solutions at scale. 

GreenShift responds to this deficit by mobilising a pan-European network of higher education institutions, supercomputing centres, technology and innovation organisations, and training providers. The project represents a long-standing commitment to harness computational science for sustainable societal impact. 

The Consortium’s mission is to strengthen the EU’s digital skills pipeline by generating experts ready to apply advanced computational methods to climate-relevant transport and mobility challenges. 

This initiative aligns directly with the priorities of the Path to the Digital Decade, which sets clear EU-wide targets for increasing digital skills, expanding adoption of HPC/Cloud and AI in enterprises, and reinforcing digital infrastructure. 

GreenShift seeks not only to skill up individuals, but to create a shared digital capacity across institutions, industry and public stakeholders, enabling collaborative development of low-carbon mobility systems, data-driven urban planning, and HPC-powered simulation for sustainable transport infrastructure. 

Institutional strength and broad European collaboration 

The Consortium brings together a diverse set of partners: from national supercomputing centres to higher education institutions, innovation hubs and industry organisations. This reflects a pan-European commitment to bridge the skills gap in computational science, support the digital transformation of businesses, and embed advanced AI and HPC capabilities into the green mobility sector. 

By investing in human capital and computational capacity now, GreenShift helps ensure that Europe will not only meet its 2030 digital targets, but also maintain strategic autonomy in critical technologies, support the twin green-digital transition, and build a resilient knowledge-based economy. 

Consortium partners 

• National College of Ireland (Ireland) 

• Universitatea Națională de Știință și Tehnologie POLITEHNICA București (Romania) 

• Università di Pisa (Italy) 

• NOVA Information Management School (Portugal) 

• HLRS Universität Stuttgart (Germany) 

• CINECA Consorzio Interuniversitario (Italy) 

• Hrvatski Telekom d.d. / Croatian Telecom Inc. (Croatia) 

• Digital Technology Skills Limited (Ireland) 

• Transition Technologies PSC SA (TTPSC) (Poland) 

• ScoutInScience (Netherlands) 

• Adecco Italia S.p.A. (Italy) 

• Fastrack into Information Technology (Ireland) 

• Matrix Internet Applications Limited (Ireland) 

• Unicorn Factory Lisboa (Portugal) 

Associated partners 

• European Business and Innovation Centre Network (Belgium) 

• SURF (Netherlands) 

The post GreenShift launches to accelerate European digital skills for green mobility appeared first on FIT - Tech Apprenticeships and Courses.

The Irish Times reported that almost 90% of Irish companies have experienced disruption or financial loss due to cyberattacks in recent years. 

Cybersecurity is no longer something that “other businesses” need to worry about. Whether you run a local shop, a growing digital company, or a busy professional services firm, the risks are real and they’re increasing. 

Threats Hitting Small Businesses  

The biggest cybersecurity risks aren’t complex technical attacks – they’re simple disruptions with major financial consequences.  

Here are the threats currently causing Irish SMEs thousands of euros in losses: 

• Systems go down and can cause business to grind to a halt – stopping sales, freezing operations and delaying services. 

• Customer data falls into the wrong hands – damaging trust which could take months or even years to recover from. 

• Invoice fraud is now one of the most common attacks on SMEs – with hackers accessing company emails and tricking customers into paying them. 

• One accidental click can cost a business thousands – Human error remains the number one cause of breaches for SMEs. 

• A hijacked website means lost sales and frustrated customers – affecting your revenue. 

Single cyber incident can shut a small business down. Many businesses are unaware that insurance companies refuse to pay out if basic securities aren’t in place. This could affect the recovery of the business, taking days or weeks, with no guarantee of full restoration. 

The challenge for SME’s 

For big corporations, cybersecurity investment is standard. However, most small businesses face limited budgets, lack of in-house capabilities and increasing pressure from customers. Cybercriminals know this and target SMEs precisely because they’re easier to breach. 

The solution isn’t to turn business owners into cybersecurity experts. The solution is bringing in someone who can manage it sustainably from within your business. 

A Practical, Cost-Effective Solution: Hiring a Cybersecurity Apprentice 

This is where the FIT Cybersecurity Tech Apprenticeship offers real value to Irish employers. 

Instead of paying for costly consultants or reacting to incidents after they happen, SMEs can build in-house cybersecurity capability at an affordable cost. Cybersecurity Apprentices work full-time in your business while completing a structured programme that equips them with the skills to: 

• strengthen your defences 

• spot vulnerabilities before attackers do 

• monitor suspicious activity 

• reduce risks linked to staff behaviour 

• improve resilience so your business stays operational 

Learn more about the programme structure and how it could work for your business here. 

For many small businesses, this is often the first time they have someone dedicated to protecting their systems, customers, and operations. 

And with hiring opportunities currently available in Sligo, Cork, Wexford and Dublin, now is the ideal moment for employers to strengthen their teams. 

Protect your business in 2026  

For SMEs that have been “putting off” cybersecurity, this is one of the simplest, smartest, and most sustainable ways to get started.  

Here’s why SME’s nationwide are choosing Tech Apprenticeships over traditional hiring: 

• Cost-effective: With no recruitment costs and access to grants and possible gender based bursaries of up to €6,666 over the two years. 

• Future-proof talent pipeline: SMEs get access to pre-screened, motivated candidates committed to developing their skills, growing with your business and building long-term expertise. 

• Trusted by 270+ Businesses: FIT programmes are developed in partnership with industry and supported by SME’s and large corporations across Ireland. 

• Nationwide programmes: Tech Apprenticeship programmes are accessible nationally, with opportunities to hire Cybersecurity apprentices for businesses in Sligo, Cork, Wexford, Dublin and surrounding areas. 

Discover how hiring a tech apprentice in 2026 can transform your business. Book a no-commitment introductory call with our team here. 

The post The Cyber Threats Costing Irish Businesses Thousands & the Cost-Effective Solution SMEs are Turning to appeared first on FIT - Tech Apprenticeships and Courses.

The event brought together students, teachers, industry professionals, and mentors for a day full of inspiration, insight, and opportunity. FIT were also honoured to welcome Kiera Keogh TD to the expo, who highlighted the importance of encouraging more women into tech pathways.

“Events like this make a real difference in inspiring young women to see themselves in tech careers.” said a teacher from Tallaght Community School.

HERo in Tech is more than just an expo, it’s a platform for connection and empowerment. Students had the chance to hear directly from female role models, take part in interactive demos and explore practical opportunities through FIT’s Tech Apprenticeship programmes, including the all-female tech apprenticeship, iFIT. Many employers participating at the event are also actively hiring apprentices, such as Salesforce, and Mastercard, providing tangible next steps for students interested in pursuing a career in tech.

Looking ahead, FIT remains committed to opening doors into tech for young women across Ireland. HERo in Tech is a celebration of what’s possible, a showcase of real pathways into the industry, and a reminder of the positive change that happens when education, industry, and mentorship come together.

Learn more about opportunities for young women in tech – explore FIT’s Tech Apprenticeship programmes here or find out how your organisation can partner with FIT to support the next generation of female tech talent here.

Want to get involved in FIT’s HERo in Tech Expo 2026? Then contact [email protected] today.

The post HERo In Tech 2025: Inspiring the Next Generation of Female Leaders appeared first on FIT - Tech Apprenticeships and Courses.

Whether you’re finishing school, exploring a career change, or looking for a more practical route into the tech sector, a tech apprenticeship offers a proven, accessible pathway into some of Ireland’s most in-demand digital roles.

What Is a FIT Tech Apprenticeship?

A FIT Tech Apprenticeship provides a two-year, industry-led training programme where you earn while you learn. Apprentices split their time between off-the-job training delivered by Education and Training Boards (ETBs) and on-the-job experience with an employer. By the end of the programme, you’ll achieve a QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate and a strong foundation of workplace experience.

The 2026 intake includes four programmes:

• Software Development
• Computer Networking
• Cybersecurity
• Data Analytics (new for 2026 – subject to QQI Validation)

With strong employer demand for new talent across Ireland, these programmes prepare you for a future-proofed career path.

See full programme dates & schedule here

Why Apply for the 2026 Intake?

• Get Paid to Learn: Tech Apprentices receive a weekly salary from day one
• Government-funded training: No high tuition fees
• Working with a leading company from day one
• Strong employment outcomes: Many apprentices secure full-time roles after they successfully complete the programme

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Applications for the 2026 Tech Apprenticeship intake are now open. If you’re looking for a practical, supported and empowering route into a tech career, this is your moment. Get your application in early to avoid disappointment.

Click here to apply today!

The post Your Future in Tech Starts Now: FIT Opens Candidate Applications for 2026 Tech Apprenticeships appeared first on FIT - Tech Apprenticeships and Courses.

This session will provide clear, practical guidance on the full range of alternative pathways into tech – ideal for supporting students who are exploring options beyond the traditional CAO route.

FIT’s programmes offer structured, supported, and industry-aligned routes into Ireland’s digital workforce, helping students progress into real employment opportunities while gaining nationally recognised qualifications.

The webinar will cover:

• A comprehensive overview of FIT’s alternative pathways:
  • Tech Apprenticeships (Software Development, Cybersecurity, Computer Networking, Data Analytics)
  • Traineeships & LTI Programmes in Manufacturing and Ireland’s Circular Economy
  • Cuimsíu Programme supporting neurodivergent and disabled learners into tech
• Entry requirements, learner supports and upcoming 2026 intakes
• Live Q&A with FIT’s learner pathway experts

This webinar is an ideal College Awareness Week activity for schools, offering staff the information needed to present inclusive, practical and employment-focused options to students.

Date: Friday 21^st November
Time: 10am – 11am
Register for free via Eventbrite here

*Please note – registered attendees will also receive access to a recording of the webinar after the event.

Don’t miss out – equip your students with clear, attainable pathways into Ireland’s growing tech sector this College Awareness Week.

The post FIT & CAW Host Alternative Tech Pathways Webinar for Schools Nationwide appeared first on FIT - Tech Apprenticeships and Courses.

The schedule outlines upcoming intakes for Software Development, Cybersecurity, Computer Networking, and the new Data Analytics apprenticeship (set to launch early 2026 – subject to QQI validation).

Supporting Employers to Build Tech Capability

As Ireland’s demand for digital skills continues to rise, businesses are seeking sustainable, cost-effective ways to grow their teams. Trusted by almost 300 Corporate, SME and Public bodies nationwide, FIT’s Tech Apprenticeships offer employers the opportunity to:

• Develop in-demand tech skills aligned with industry needs
• Close the digital and gender skills gaps within their organisation
• Strengthen their workforce with diverse talent that contributes from day one
• Upskill their current team in up to date technologies, making them future-ready

Learn more about how you can access grants and gender based bursaries of up €6,666 per apprentice here.

Empowering the Next Generation of Tech Talent

For candidates, a FIT Tech Apprenticeship is a gateway into Ireland’s growing technology sector. Participants gain nationally recognised qualifications, practical experience, and a clear path to long-term employment in tech, without the financial burden of full-time study.

Plan Ahead: 2026 Schedule Now Available

Whether you’re a business leader looking to future-proof your workforce or an aspiring tech professional ready to launch your career, FIT’s Tech Apprenticeships offer a proven pathway to success.

View the 2026 schedule and start planning your intake here.

The post FIT Announces 2026 Tech Apprenticeship Schedule: Building Ireland’s Future Tech Workforce appeared first on FIT - Tech Apprenticeships and Courses.