NCI Blog

While technology continues to evolve and change the way we work for the better, so too do the challenges that come with it, most notably around protecting key information against cyberattacks. The threat of such attacks is at an all-time high, with Grant Thornton Ireland reporting the economic cost of cybercrime in Ireland to be €9.6 billion. These threats have increased the demand for cybersecurity specialists, with organisations now actively seeking out skilled professionals who can protect the privacy and confidentiality of their sensitive data.

Marius Petraitis set himself a goal of becoming a tech startup founder, but always wanted to expand his knowledge and skills before doing so. His first step was to join an undergraduate degree that included both business and technology subjects. After gaining a postgraduate qualification in the e-commerce space, the Springboard+ initiative gave him the opportunity to build on his existing skills in specialised areas such as Data Analytics and Cybersecurity.

If you have been considering a career change but feel uncertain about what the future holds, Cian's story of completing a Springboard+ course in data analytics at National College of Ireland may inspire you to take action. Before discovering his passion for data analytics, Cian had a diverse career path in the finance and entertainment industries. However, he always had a knack for logic and numbers, which ultimately led him to explore the field of data analytics.

In this blog post, Niamh Daly shares her journey studying the BSc (Honours) in Data Science at National College of Ireland. She recalls her interest in data analysis from a young age, how she learned NCI's course was a perfect fit for her as well as he experience completing her work placement with Dell Technologies. Finally, Niamh discusses her final year project which focuses on the impact of the weather on Formula One and won the overall prize at the Computing Project Showcase recently.

Lunch & Learn is an initiative of the HR and EDI team at NCI, designed to allow people working in different areas of the College to share their expertise with their colleagues.

It is almost impossible to find an industry or business in our world today that has not been changed by technological advancement in recent times. Whether you are a farmer using agricultural technology to improve crop productivity, or an accountant using automation software to reduce paper usage, technology has streamlined important processes in businesses, allowing them to be more efficient, safer and profitable.

It's the age old question: how do you know you want to work in a new or emerging field if you don't know what to expect? Technology subjects such as cybersecurity, data analytics, blockchain and artificial intelligence are not taught at second-level so anyone choosing to dive right into a third-level course in these specialist areas, whether it's a level 8 degree or a conversion course, likely won't have existing experience in these areas.

With so many changes in the workforce in recent years, including the shift to remote and hybrid working models, many professionals are seeking more flexible working arrangements. According to the CSO, 88% of those in employment who worked remotely during the pandemic would like to continue to do so, with 6 in 10 preferring a mix of remote and office work.

Missed the CAO deadline or you're unhappy with your previous course choices? You still have a chance to attend NCI this September through the Available Places facility! Further information can be found on our Available Places hub.

NCI’s Technology Transfer Project Showcase is an opportunity for final-year computing students to present the projects they have worked on throughout their last year of college to industry professionals, recruiters, and academics. It’s an important event for students seeking graduate employment, and a chance to celebrate the culmination of four years of hard work.