Sync NI Magazine Spring 2025

www.syncni.com Spring 2025 magazine

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 Northern Ireland is entering an exciting new era of partnership... to deliver a generational investment in innovation that will drive economic and social transformation through digital technologies.  Dr Stephen McCabe, Interim Executive Director, Momentum One Zero

Forging a new era of innovation in Northern Ireland 08 Liberty IT: How STEAM

Studio is inspiring the next generation of tech talent

20 Laoise Toner, EY NI: Why this is a particularly exciting time to be working in technology Supported by

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Welcome to the spring edition of the Sync NI magazine Foreword

Dr Stephen McCabe Interim Executive Director at Momentum One Zero, Queen’s University Belfast

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orthern Ireland is entering an exciting new era of partnership. Through the City and Growth Deals, government is working alongside the private sector, local councils, and universities to deliver a generational investment in innovation that will drive economic and social transformation through digital technologies.

At the heart of this vision is Momentum One Zero, a business-led innovation centre at Queen’s University Belfast. Positioned at the intersection of trusted data, cybersecurity, AI, and wireless technologies, Momentum One Zero is accelerating commercial value for business and competitiveness in key sectors.

The convergence of these technologies is powerful and Northern Ireland can lead in this ‘hotspot’. Imagine a local hub providing tailored, secure, AI-enabled solutions offering businesses a competitive edge.

One such example is FlockFocus, a flagship project harnessing AI-driven computer vision to enhance chicken welfare. With over $1.5 million in investment from the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research and McDonald’s under the Smart Broiler program, FlockFocus is leveraging Momentum One Zero’s cutting-edge engineering and multidisciplinary expertise to deliver critical welfare data to the poultry industry. The ultimate result? A commercial farm management tool, yielding profitable revenue, that will objectively evaluate broiler welfare, having undergone trials with leading poultry producers in Northern Ireland, Hungary and the U.S.

Our goal is to partner with our strong ICT sector to bring integrated tech solutions like this to sectors where they can make a real difference, helping tackle some of the world’s most complex challenges in areas such as digital health, agri-tech, fintech, and space.

Bridging research and commercial success Momentum One Zero thrives because of its people. Our Commercial Team are experts at listening to businesses, understanding their pain points, and identifying opportunities. Our Engineering Team specialises in transforming cutting-edge research into commercially viable solutions.

Innovation often faces a critical challenge - the so-called “valley of death”, where groundbreaking academic research struggles to transition into market-ready products.

Momentum One Zero exists to bridge this gap, providing the expertise and infrastructure needed to accelerate product development and create tangible value for businesses.

Building for the future - but open for business now The City and Growth Deals represent a significant capital investment, and by 2027, we look forward to the completion of the Momentum One Zero building in Titanic Quarter - a purpose-built collaborative innovation space designed for co-location with businesses to drive their success.

But we’re not waiting until then. Momentum One Zero is open for business now. If you’re ready to explore how we can support your company, let’s start the conversation today.

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About Sync NI Sync NI is proud to be the voice of Northern Ireland’s vibrant technology and business sector.

The Sync NI website and magazine brings readers the latest tech and business news, views, jobs and events in Belfast and beyond.

Sync NI Contacts Editorial Kathryn McKenna Phone: 028 9082 0947 Email: kathryn@syncni.com Advertising & Partnerships Louis Kingston Phone: 028 9082 0947 Email: louis@syncni.com Digital Content Ryan Redmond Email: ryan@syncni.com General Enquiries Sync NI Rochester Building 28 Adelaide street Belfast BT2 8GD Phone: 028 9082 0947 Email: team@syncni.com Online: www.syncni.com Copyright No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the copyholder and publisher. Sync NI accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of contributed articles or statements appearing in this magazine and any views or opinions expressed are not necessarily those of Sync NI, unless otherwise indicated.

No responsibility for loss or distress associated to any person acting or refraining from acting as a result of the material in this magazine can be accepted by the authors, contributors, editors or publishers. Sync NI does not endorse any goods or services advertised, nor any claims or representations made in any advertisement in this magazine.

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Inside this edition 18 CGI trends and predictions for 2025

06 40 years of QUBIS: A legacy of innovation and disruption 08 Liberty IT: How STEAM Studio is inspiring the next generation of tech talent

20 Laoise Toner, EY NI: Why this is a particularly exciting time to be working in technology and the importance of embracing change

10 CyberFirst Empower Girls: NI cyber sector to inspire NI girls to crack the code on future careers

22 Taking the leap: Lara Sunday on jumping into the world of tech with both feet

12 Tech trends 2024 & 2025 predictions: What's next for Northern Ireland?

24 The importance of innovation and investing in the next generation for Northern Ireland

14 Tech for Good: Belfast-based ESO employees contribute to AI-powered healthcare innovation

26 David Crozier CBE, AICC: AI is no longer a choice, it’s a necessity. How the AICC is empowering businesses to thrive in the AI era.

16 Career advice for 2025: What you need to know

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(L-R) QUBIS Board of Directors: Stuart Elborn, Brian McCaul, Helen Kirkpatrick, David Quinn, Nicola Broughton, Eoin McMullan and Archie Clements

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40 years of QUBIS: A legacy of innovation and disruption

elebrating four decades of trailblazing innovation, QUBIS has emerged as a cornerstone of Northern Ireland's entrepreneurial landscape. Built on the strong foundation of research excellence at Queen’s University, it has transformed cutting-edge academic research into over 100 dynamic spinouts, each redefining the region's business ecosystem and reinforcing its global reputation as a hub of entrepreneurial excellence.

Bridging academia and industry

Founded in 1984, QUBIS was founded with the aim of bridging the gap between the academic research of Queen’s University and the dynamic world of entrepreneurship, by creating impact through spin outs. As Edward Cartin, former CEO of QUBIS, noted: "A spin-out is a form of publication. It’s taking science out from under the bushel and showing it to the world at large." This powerful collaboration has enabled researchers to push the boundaries of innovation, translating theoretical

breakthroughs into practical, market-ready solutions that have resonated globally.

Over the years, the relationship between QUBIS and Queen’s University has evolved dramatically. What began as an experimental endeavour has now grown into an embedded, mutually beneficial partnership. As Cartin explained: "It built the acceptance of university spin-outs as part of the economic ecology of the country, setting off a chain of spin-outs, not just from the university but from the spin-outs themselves."

Current CEO of QUBIS, Brian McCaul, emphasises the vital role of QUBIS in addressing the region’s economic challenges: “Northern Ireland is a challenged economy—a low startup economy and a low equity market economy. QUBIS plays into all of those. Our core business is to create deep tech startups, and we’ve become the third most active early-stage investor in Northern Ireland, making a critical impact on the local economy.”

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A legacy of disruptive innovation

Over the past four decades, QUBIS has been at the forefront of driving technological change in Northern Ireland and on a larger global stage.

Early successes laid the foundation for a wave of ventures that have not only elevated Northern Ireland’s status on the global tech map but have also spearheaded innovations across industries including IT, healthcare technology, and advanced engineering.

Key impacts include: q From Lab to Launch: By leveraging Queen’s University’s state-of-the-art research, QUBIS has turned innovative ideas into thriving tech startups. q Economic Transformation: These ventures have generated high-value jobs and attracted international investment, strengthening the region’s economic profile. q Inspiring the Next Generation: The success of QUBIS’s spinouts serves as a beacon for emerging tech talent, inspiring future innovators to challenge the status quo.

As McCaul points out: “We ranked number one, above Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial, in the Octopus Ventures rankings for efficiency in turning IP into value. It was a testament to how lean and effective QUBIS has been at maximising the potential of Queen’s University’s research.”

Spinout spotlight

QUBIS owes its success to its spin-outs, with Bia Analytical standing as a prime example.

Bia Analytical is a world-leading food authentication company which originated from innovative research carried out at the Institute for Global Food Security (IGFS) at Queen’s University Belfast. With food authentication testing traditionally taking up to 14 days, Bia Analytical have developed cutting-edge food integrity and specification screening which can provide instant results at any

(L-R) Dr Terry McGrath, CSO; Dr Meave Shannon, Customer Success & Research Lead; Dr Stephanie Heaney, Research Scientist

point in the supply chain via a portable device, or within three days in their ISO 17025-accredited lab. Bia Analytical utilises advanced spectroscopy, chemometric modelling, AI, and complex data science to ensure rapid, reliable, and accurate results.

Bia Analytical’s origins trace back to the 2013 horsemeat scandal, which highlighted critical vulnerabilities in food authentication. IGFS had already been pioneering spectroscopy-based food safety research when Professor Chris Elliott OBE, co-founder and President of Bia Analytical, was appointed to lead the UK Government Review. As industry demand for reliable testing surged, it became clear that a dedicated commercial entity was needed to provide rapid, scalable solutions which led to the creation of Bia Analytical as a spinout company.

Despite launching in early 2020 amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Bia Analytical achieved significant milestones. In its first year, the company developed chemometric models for a core offering of 22 herbs, spices and wheat flour, expanded authenticity testing services, and maintained a rapid three-day turnaround time to empower businesses with critical insights.

As climate change, crop failures, deforestation, and rising costs threaten global food security, Bia Analytical

continues to enhance its models for high-risk commodities such as cattle, cocoa, coffee, soybeans, and edible oils. By leveraging cloud technology, the company is improving access to its models, empowering retailers and manufacturers to maintain supply chain integrity, even in complex and layered supply chains.

With ISO 17025 accreditation for the laboratory-based methods, an expanding suite of portable authentication tests and a cloudbased software platform which grants food-testing labs access to its scientific models for instant sample analysis, Bia Analytical remains at the forefront of food quality and integrity.

Looking ahead: The future of tech innovation

The 40-year journey of QUBIS, deeply interwoven with the academic prowess of Queen’s University, is a compelling narrative of innovation, resilience, and transformative success.

As the tech community looks to the future, this partnership stands as a beacon of what can be achieved when research excellence meets entrepreneurial drive. "I believe QUBIS can continue to be a driving force in creating world-class companies, helping Northern Ireland compete globally," says McCaul. "With the right collaborations, innovation, and talent, the next 40 years could be even more exciting than the last."

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Laura Mackin, Director of Communications and Marketing at Liberty IT

Liberty IT: How STEAM Studio is inspiring the next generation of tech talent L

iberty IT has partnered with National Museums to create the STEAM Studio - an immersive tech experience to inspire and engage students aged 13-15 across Northern Ireland. Students make their own game using Microsoft MakeCode Arcade, inspired by the Ulster Museum’s art collections.

STEAM stands for Science, Tech, Engineering, the Arts and Maths. STEAM Studio runs Monday’s during term time, with travel costs for schools reimbursed by Liberty IT. Since launching the programme has welcomed over 1,400 students, with sessions fully booked into Spring 2025.

We chatted to Liberty IT’s Director of Communications and Marketing, Laura Mackin, who is also sponsor of the company’s STEM Employee Resource Group (ERG) which is passionate about inspiring the next generation of tech talent, to find out more.

q STEAM Studio has been a hugely successful initiative to inspire students and teachers in a unique learning environment – how did this opportunity come together?

Inspiring the next generation of tech leaders has long been a focus of Liberty IT’s community impact strategy. As founding members within Software NI, our research tells us

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we are still seeing a lack of understanding of the breadth of career choices across the tech industry being discussed in schools.

The needle isn’t moving in terms of wider diversity across the industry and unsurprisingly postpandemic, schools are under even more financial pressure, which includes many not having funds for educational experiences.

As the leaders in digital innovation, we are committed to helping to drive change and in doing so we wanted to create and take ownership of our own educational programme.

As part of this we identified National Museums as a potential partner, recognising how our values for education overlapped. They offered us the use of their incredible space in the iconic Ulster Museum to form a test and learn pilot of the STEAM Studio in early 2024.

We’ve been blown away with the demand, so much so that we moved quickly from the test and learn phase to incorporating STEAM Studio into National Museum NI’s education programme, offering sessions to any school free of charge including free transport.

q What does the STEAM Studio experience look like and how can students benefit from the experience?

Schools can sign up for an available date via the Ulster Museum website. Sessions take place on a Monday when the museum is closed

to the public, giving our students a unique chance to have this fantastic space all to themselves.

After an initial brief and a run through of the day with our education team, students use tablets to take photos of the items they are drawn to in the fine arts exhibition, after a walk through by the museum team. They then spend the rest of the day walking through the programme, coding their art collection, leaving at the end of the day with a personalised arcade game, which they can keep working on in class afterwards.

Students and teachers not only find themselves immersed in a learning experience that aligns with the curriculum, it’s also a day of creativity and problem solving, never mind it’s great fun! Our Liberty IT ambassadors are on hand for guidance, support and to answer any questions. They also take time at the end of the session to talk about their career journey and role in Liberty IT, shining a light on the diversity of careers in tech.

q What feedback have

you had from students and teachers who have attended STEAM Studio?

Ensuring we have an experience that is inclusive for all types of school was incredibly important to us and so we tested STEAM Studio with multiple schools and students from across NI and with varying experience in technology.

Every school who has completed the programme has given it 5 stars, which is fantastic to hear as we can pivot the tasks depending on experience.

Liberty IT team members act as ambassadors, supporting students through the STEAM Studio experience. Feedback from teachers and students tells us the time our teams are spending guiding them through the programme, but also talking about their career journeys is highly inspiring.

We are being asked by teachers what more can we offer them after they leave the museum, and that's something very much on our minds. Through Software NI, we are working with a number of tech companies across NI to engage education bodies and look for more opportunities to collaborate. So watch this space!

q How important is it to have schools build closer relationships with companies such as Liberty IT? It is hugely important for schools and companies to build closer relationships.

Together, we can make a big difference, to help ensure the young people can make the most of their education and get the chance to learn the knowledge and skills they need to go on to be successful in their chosen career.

For us, it’s also about continuing to invest in the communities in which we operate.

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Liberty IT’s community investments have continued to grow year on year, and with the addition of STEAM Studio, we’ve quadrupled our investment from only a few years ago, with a view to continue to increase as we expand the programme across Ireland.

q Due to the huge success of STEAM Studio in Northern Ireland, Liberty IT is expanding the programme. Can you tell us more about this?

We recognised early in the test and learn phase this was a special programme and unlike anything on offer across the island of Ireland.

It was always a dream to roll out across the whole of Northern Ireland which we have accomplished, and dared to dream even further, looking for an opportunity in another city where we have a home – Galway. We’re thrilled to say we’re at the final stages of developing a pilot STEAM Studio for Galway City Museum. Their STEAM Studio is personal to both the Irish curriculum and the museum experience. We’re launching in a few months, again with a diverse range of school types to ensure every student who participates in STEAM Studio has a rewarding and engaging experience.

q Finally, how can schools get involved?

Registering for a STEAM Studio experience for your school takes only a few minutes, search Liberty IT STEAM Studio for all the information.

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CyberFirst Empower Girls: NI cyb NI girls to crack the code on futur F

ollowing the success of the inaugural CyberFirst Empower Girls event last year, the countdown is on for the second and much larger event, which is set to take place at the ICC, Belfast on Tuesday 29 April.

The CyberFirst Empower Girls event, supported by Aflac Northern Ireland, will see 500 Year 8 girls from across Northern Ireland engage with a wide range of local companies and organisations involved in the fast-growing cyber security and wider technology sector. The event is part of the CyberFirst Schools and Colleges initiative, led by the Department for the Economy in Northern Ireland on behalf of the UK National Cyber Security Centre. The schools’ initiative is designed to inspire young people to explore their passion

for tech and introduce them to career opportunities within the fast-paced world of cyber security.

This is against a backdrop where women make up half of Northern Ireland’s workforce, their representation in STEM occupations remains stubbornly low. A recent Equality Commission NI report shows that only 15% of women study core STEM subjects compared to 36% of men, with just 16% pursuing careers in computer science and 11% in engineering.

At the same time, women currently make up only 23% of the tech industry in NI, pointing to huge untapped potential.

The Empower Girls event aims to address this imbalance by raising awareness of the variety of roles on offer across the cyber security and wider technology sector with those

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giants, such as Amazon Web Services, Microsoft, Kainos and Instil already signed up to support the event along with the Bring IT On programme, this is an excellent opportunity to showcase innovation across the sector and inspire our next generation of students to pursue a career in the sector. We would encourage any company with an interest in cyber skills to sign up and support the event before it is too late.”

Caeris, Darcy and India, Year 8 Larne Grammar School, pictured with Catherine McCourt and Tom Trainor, Aflac NI, and Sara Lyons from Cyber First

ber sector to inspire re careers at the beginning of their post primary education journey. Following the success of last year’s event the organisers have doubled the capacity to 500 girls aged 11-12 from schools across Northern Ireland. It will also be supported by many more companies across the sector who will help pupils discover the world of technology and cyber security through interactive experiences and demos.

The event is open to all organisations employing IT and cyber security professionals in Northern Ireland and they are being encouraged to participate

to help secure Northern Ireland’s future cyber skills pipeline. The importance of the event was reinforced with a survey from last year’s event which showed that 80% of girls were more likely to consider pursuing a career in technology and cyber security after the Empower Girls event than before.

Sara Lyons, CyberFirst NI Project Manager, said: “We are very excited to be bringing the CyberFirst Empower Girls event back and are focused on making it both bigger and better than last year to meet increased demand. With industry

Tom Trainor, Vice President and Head of Cyber Security at Aflac Northern Ireland, key sponsors of the event, said: “At Aflac Northern Ireland, we can see the huge opportunities for the Northern Ireland economy around cyber skills and know that the talent pipeline is key to our business success and that of the wider sector. Building on the success and impact of last year’s event, the 2025 CyberFirst Empower Girls event presents an engaging way to showcase the huge variety of career opportunities across the world of cyber security. We are excited to join with the wider cyber security community across Northern Ireland to present these many opportunities to our next generation."

Lauren Brown, Head of ICT, Larne Grammar School who will be attending the event said: “We are really looking forward to attending the event and as the event name suggests, we hope it will empower more of our girls to better understand the huge opportunities within the cyber security field. To learn about these opportunities first hand and for the various careers to be brought to life through interactive displays and demos will open their minds to the many possibilities and no doubt will help set some of our pupils on a path towards the tech sector in the future.”

Companies interested in finding out more about attending or supporting the event can contact Sara Lyons at SaraLyons@ belfastmet.ac.uk.

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s we’ve leapt into 2025, it's clear that 2024 was a pivotal year for technology. AI has transitioned from being a trendy term to something businesses are actively implementing, bringing with it new opportunities and, inevitably, cybersecurity challenges that demand attention.

The Big Stories of 2024 AI Integration: Transforming potential into reality Generative AI has exploded, transforming the tech landscape in profound ways. Beyond chatbots, it’s now a tool being actively implemented for automating workflows, optimizing software development, and creating hyper-realistic media assets for marketing and training. Globally, searches for generative AI rose 700% since 2022, signalling that businesses across industries are recognising its potential to revolutionise how we design, innovate, and operate. For developers, AI tools are streamlining code generation and testing, cutting development times dramatically and improving efficiency at scale.

Cybersecurity: Navigating evolving threats With all this AI and digital transformation, cybersecurity staff are busier than ever. Cyber attacks are more sophisticated and targeted, and the numbers prove it. The UK is the third most targeted country for cyberattacks after the US and Ukraine, and Ireland isn’t far behind. Last year, over half of Irish

companies were hit with a cyberattack. Businesses that don’t step up their game will be left paying the price. Literally.

Northern Ireland isn’t immune. But the local cybersecurity sector is booming. It’s supporting over 2,750 jobs and adding more than £237 million to the economy. And with salaries averaging £54,000, this isn’t a bad place to be if you’re a techie.

The digital infrastructure push Northern Ireland continues to lead the UK in digital connectivity. By March 2024, 95% of premises had access to gigabit-capable connections, with full fibre availability hitting 96% by October, far above the UK average of 71%.

Government-backed programmes connected 21,000 more premises to gigabit broadband in the past year, solidifying Northern Ireland’s position as the most connected part of the UK. Mobile network coverage has also advanced, with 94.9% of the UK’s landmass achieving 4G coverage by September 2024, nearly reaching the Shared Rural Network’s 95% target ahead of schedule. These improvements, driven by decarbonisation, economic growth, and growing demand for connectivity, provide a robust foundation for Northern Ireland’s digital future while addressing challenges in rural broadband access and adoption barriers. As businesses adapt to evolving regulations on privacy and online safety, the

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region's connectivity achievements provide a strong foundation for future innovation and economic resilience.

What’s Coming in 2025?

Generative AI will keep evolving We’ve barely scratched the surface of what generative AI can do. Expect it to get smarter, faster, and even more integrated into everyday workflows.

Big players like Google are already using AI to generate a quarter of their code output, and it’s only going to grow. By 2028, AI is expected to make 15% of day-to-day work decisions on its own. Scary? Maybe. But the businesses that figure out how to use this tech effectively will leave their competitors in the dust.

Cybersecurity evolves with real-time AI defense AI isn’t just for attackers. In 2025, we’ll see more AI-driven cybersecurity systems detecting and responding to threats in real-time.

Generative AI will also simulate attack scenarios, helping companies prepare for the worst. For Northern Ireland’s growing cyber sector, this is a huge opportunity.

Sustainability will be non-negotiable Green coding practices and sustainable software development are set to become industry standards. It’s not just about environmental concerns for some though. AI uses a LOT of energy. And energy costs money. Businesses that ignore sustainability will find themselves not just left out of the conversation, but also footing the bill for it.

Northern Ireland’s role in all this Belfast and the wider region have all the ingredients to keep growing as a tech hub. With ambitious targets like 5,000 cyber jobs by 2030 and the ‘50 and Five by 35’ strategy to hit 50,000 software jobs by 2035, the future looks bright. But hitting these goals won’t be easy.

Skilling up the workforce Across the UK, 62% of organisations are grappling with skills shortages, with 68% reporting increased workloads on existing staff as a result.

Quantum computing steps into the spotlight Quantum computing has been a pipe dream for years, but 2025 could be when it finally starts to deliver. The potential applications are massive; from cracking impossible problems in cryptography to revolutionising drug development. For local businesses, staying informed about this tech is crucial, even if it’s not quite ready to disrupt your industry yet.

Efforts like the Skills Strategy for Northern Ireland: Skills for a 10x Economy aim to close this gap by increasing adult learning participation to 25% by 2030 and preparing the workforce for evolving industry needs.

Initiatives such as the Cyber Explorers competition inspire young people to pursue careers in tech, while programs like the Skills Focus Programme enhance SME workforce skills with a focus on higher-level qualifications.

These proactive measures, alongside recommendations from the Skills and Workplace Forum to establish a talent hub and promote Northern Ireland as a tech destination, position the region to tackle skills shortages and support sustainable growth.

5G will finally pay off With the rollout of 5G networks nearly complete, we’ll see it powering smart cities, autonomous vehicles, and IoT devices like never before.

Northern Ireland’s strong focus on IoT development could position it as a leader in this space.

Encouraging investment Investment in local tech companies is already growing. Northern Ireland saw a 67% increase in venture capital investment in cyber firms since 2023, with total funding surpassing £72 million. The region’s startups have drawn attention from international

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investors, particularly in cyber security and IoT. Reports like Samsung’s naming Northern Ireland as the potential “Silicon Valley” of the UK underline this global interest. Samsung highlighted that 77% of young people in Northern Ireland want to pursue a career in tech, compared to 69% in London, and patent applications here rose 33% between 2022-23, far outpacing London’s 11% growth.

The message is clear: Northern Ireland has the talent and ambition to succeed, but maintaining momentum will require continued support. With the right investments and policies, the region can transform this interest into sustained growth. It’s encouraging to see initiatives like the DTFF, InvestNI grants, and the InterTrade Ireland Export Pathway paving the way for many.

Focusing on ethical AI Northern Ireland has a chance to expand its role in ethical AI, though we’re just 1% of the UK’s AI footprint.

That said, Belfast is already standing out, with half of NI’s AI companies based here and a 3% rise in tech investment despite the UK’s overall 54% decline.

Kier Starmer’s vision for the UK as an AI superpower is ambitious, and Northern Ireland can contribute by carving out a niche. Focusing on ethical AI and regional strengths could make us a valuable player without overstretching.

An ideal position would be to establish ourselves as essential contributors to the broader UK strategy.

But challenges remain. Supercomputers and data centres are costly, and AI’s power needs could strain Northern Ireland’s grid. Navigating the EU’s AI Act adds complexity, but it could also become a unique advantage if approached strategically. By leveraging our dual regulatory position and investing wisely, Northern Ireland can turn these obstacles into opportunities.

It’s very exciting.

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rtificial Intelligence in healthcare is one of the most significant technological advancements of our time. Around the world, healthcare technology companies are racing to leverage AI to improve patient care, reduce administrative burdens, and generate meaningful insights for medical professionals.

At ESO, a technology company dedicated to improving community health and safety through the power of data, software developers, including those based in Belfast, are working on cutting-edge AI solutions that could transform healthcare operations.

“Artificial Intelligence is on the verge of helping clinicians transform the way diseases are diagnosed and treated, to how healthcare resources are managed. We’re here to tackle the healthcare resourcing challenge,” said John Fitzsimons, Director of Engineering at ESO. “Our goal with this feature is to reduce the documentation burden on healthcare professionals, so they can focus on what matters most, patient care.”

While much of ESO’s work is focused on the US healthcare system, the innovations being developed have broader implications for how data and AI can shape the future of healthcare globally.

Automating patient narratives with AI

One of ESO’s latest innovations is an AutoGenerated Narrative feature, designed to help healthcare providers document patient interactions more efficiently. In fast-paced medical settings, such as emergency medical services, clinicians often have limited time to input detailed notes while prioritising urgent patient care.

This AI-powered feature integrates into ESO’s Electronic Health Record (EHR), extracting discrete data points entered into the record by providers, analysing the information, and generating a comprehensive written narrative.

"Before providers were tasked with manually reviewing and analysing the data they'd previously entered into the patient care report, leading to additional time away from caring for

Tech for G

Belfast-base employees con AI-powered he innovati

Good

ed ESO ntribute to ealthcare ion

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their patients,” said Fitzsimons.

“This not only reduces the risk of duplicate data entry but also ensures that critical information is captured accurately, consistently and quickly.”

The first phase of this feature focuses on creating structured, easy-to-read reports that summarise patient care.

Right now, AI-generated documentation is designed for cases where emergency responders transport patients and need to hand off important medical information to hospital staff.

Why it matters

Accuracy is key. In emergency situations, first responders and medical professionals often work under extreme pressure. By leveraging AI to create the patient care narrative and standardise patient data, ESO’s technology aims to reduce administrative workloads while improving documentation quality.

Beyond immediate patient care, research entities like ESO’s own research team can also take this structured data and analyse it at a national level to identify trends and drive improvements. One example of this is ESO’s annual Trauma Index, which highlights key trends in hospital care, such as the percentage of patients requiring blood transfusions and the efficiency of emergency interventions.

“In medicine and particularly in trauma—where every second counts—standardised data, metrics and benchmarks are critical in helping clinicians evaluate performance and drive improvement,” said Eric Beck, DO, MPH, EMT-P, president and CEO of ESO. “Our goal at ESO

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is to share best practices and continue to empower the entire care team using outcomes to enhance the quality of care.”

While this specific benchmarking tool is designed for U.S. systems, the principles of standardised data, performance metrics, and evidence-based decision-making are universally applicable to healthcare systems worldwide.

Driving innovation from Belfast

ESO’s Belfast-based team of software engineers, data scientists, and product developers play a crucial role in building and refining these AI-driven solutions.

Their expertise in healthcare technology contributes to the broader mission of leveraging data to improve patient care and provider efficiency.

While AI-driven healthcare solutions are still evolving, the work being done at ESO highlights how technology can be a force for good in medicine, reducing the burden on frontline healthcare workers and ensuring better outcomes for patients.

For those in Northern Ireland looking to work in healthtech, ESO offers opportunities to be part of this exciting transformation, where data, AI, and innovation intersect to improve community health and safety.

ESO's Auto-Generated Narratives for ESO's Electronic Health Records (EHR) are currently in development. The feature is being tested with a small cohort, with plans to launch to ESO's full customer base later this year.

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By Barbara McKiernan. Managing Director VANRATH

Career advice for 2025: What you need to know

ant that promotion? Thinking of jumping ship?

Just trying to survive in a job market that feels like a treadmill set to sprint mode? Whatever your career goals are, 2025 is the year to step up.

Industries are shifting, competition is cut-throat, and the rules of the game are changing fast. The good news? You can stay ahead — you just have to be willing to put in the work.

Technology is evolving at breakneck speed, and it’s dragging the job market along with it. AI, automation, and data-driven decision-making aren’t coming soon — they’re already here.

If you’re not learning, you’re falling behind. You don’t need to become a programmer overnight, but understanding tech trends can give you an edge. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning make it easier than ever to upskill, whether you want to learn data analysis, cyber security, or even project management. Look at emerging trends in your

industry, follow thought leaders, and be proactive about learning new skills before they become a necessity.

Staying informed is non-negotiable. If you’re not keeping up with industry trends, you’re setting yourself up to be outpaced. Subscribe to newsletters and attend conferences in your field. One of the easiest ways to stay ahead is by listening to podcasts, reading industry blogs, and joining online communities that focus on your area. Information is power, and in a job market that moves this fast, knowing what’s coming next can keep you ahead of the curve.

And don’t forget the human factor — creativity, problemsolving, and adaptability are still irreplaceable skills. While automation is taking over repetitive tasks, businesses still need innovative thinkers, decision-makers, and strong communicators. The key is to position yourself as someone who can work alongside technology, rather than be replaced

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by it. Soft skills are gaining more recognition in hiring decisions, and employees who can demonstrate emotional intelligence, leadership, and effective teamwork will always stand out.

Networking has evolved too. It’s no longer just about attending events and collecting business cards. The best connections are made through engagement — commenting on posts, joining professional groups, attending webinars, and actually contributing to discussions. Don’t just connect with people; build relationships. That’s what makes a difference when opportunities arise. The best networking isn’t transactional; it’s about forming genuine professional relationships that can lead to unexpected opportunities.

If you’re feeling stuck, start by reaching out to past colleagues, joining industryspecific forums, or attending virtual networking events. You never know where the right conversation might lead.

The workplace itself isn’t what it used to be. Hybrid working is here to stay.

In 2025, being flexible and open to different working environments is key to success. Learn how to stay productive and connected, whether you’re in the office or at home. Contract roles are on the rise too, offering variety, solid experience, and a chance to build your network. If you’ve been hesitant about considering short-term contracts or freelance gigs, now might be the time to rethink that. They can offer flexibility, better work-life balance, and exposure to different industries and skill sets. Some of the best career moves start in unexpected places.

Temporary roles can also be a stepping stone to something bigger. Many employers use contract roles as a trial period for permanent positions, so don’t be too quick to dismiss them as a viable career option.

Careers aren’t linear anymore, so don’t panic if yours isn’t following a straight

line. Being open to pivots, side hustles, and new industries can unlock doors you didn’t even know existed. Skills are more transferable than you think and taking a risk can pay off big time. If you’re miserable in your job but staying put because it feels "safe," ask yourself: is it really? Or is it just familiar? Staying in a role that no longer challenges you or contributes to your growth is a career risk in itself. The longer you stay in a stagnant position, the harder it can be to transition into something better.

Your personal brand is your currency, and in 2025, your online presence might be the deciding factor to make or break your chances of securing a job. Hiring managers don’t just skim CVs anymore — they check out your LinkedIn Profile, too. Polish up your profile: update your experience, add a professional-looking photo, and write a compelling headline that actually reflects your expertise.

Post insights about your industry, engage in meaningful discussions, and showcase your knowledge. Think of it this way — if an employer searches your name, what impression are they going to get? A well-crafted online presence can position you as an authority in your field.

Throughout all of this, remember to prioritise your mental well-being because burnout is real, and it can be brutal. Setting boundaries, taking real breaks (no, scrolling on your phone for five minutes doesn’t count), and surrounding yourself with the right support system can keep you from hitting a wall. A career is a marathon, not a sprint, and you can’t run on empty.

At the same time, companies are finally realising that overworked, burnt-out employees aren’t great for business.

Employee well-being is becoming a bigger focus, and employers that fail to prioritise work-life balance risk losing their best talent. That said, some organisations still operate under an outdated “always-on” mentality. Set boundaries. If an employer expects

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you to live and breathe work 24/7, and that’s not you, they’re probably not the right fit. The healthiest work environments are the ones that respect your time, allow you to recharge, and promote sustainable productivity. Learning to say no and managing expectations are valuable skills that will serve you well in any job.

Finding the right employer matters just as much as finding the right job. Culture, growth opportunities, and work-life balance can be just as important as salary. Do your homework — Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and company reviews can tell you a lot about what goes on behind the scenes. And when you get to the interview stage, don’t just answer their questions — ask your own.

What kind of career progression do they have available? What’s the actual work culture like? How does the company support employee growth?

An interview is a two-way street; you’re not just proving you’re the right candidate; you’re also figuring out if the company is the right fit for you.

And if you really want to play the game smart? Try working with a trusted recruiter. The best roles sometimes don’t even hit the job boards. A good recruiter can help you skip the noise, land interviews for roles that actually fit your skills, and give you insights into what hiring managers really want.

Many candidates hesitate to work with recruiters, assuming they only benefit the employer, but a great recruiter acts as an advocate for both sides. If you’re looking to step up in 2025, building a relationship with a recruitment professional can be a game-changer.

Why do all the legwork yourself when you can have an expert in your corner?

This year is all about taking charge, making moves, and building a career that actually excites you. With the right mindset, 2025 could be your best professional year yet. The question is — are you going to make it happen?

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CGI trends and predictions for 2025 A

s one of the largest IT and business consulting services firms in the world, CGI helps clients accelerate ROI-led digital transformation. Founded in 1976 CGI employs over 91,000 consultants and professionals worldwide working across 21 industry sectors and 400 locations. CGI provides comprehensive, scalable and sustainable IT and business consulting services that are informed globally and delivered locally to over 5000 organisations. Here’s what some of their experts predict for 2025 in the fields of AI, Cyber and Sustainability.

Key trends and predictions for AI in 2025

Russell Goodenough, Head of AI, CGI in the UK & Australia has predicted the Top three trends of 2025 in the AI space.

Implementation of AI across organisations “From experimentation to deep integration. AI will become completely woven into business operations. We’ve seen this evolution in our own business, and know other organisations will follow suit. Instead of a top-down approach where

leaders instruct teams how to use software and tools, leading organisations will democratise AI for all. Letting employees experiment will be the best thing an IT leader will do. The result will be innovations and applications you never had planned for, but ones that have a tangible effect on your organisation. We’re seeing a remarkable 40% increase in productivity across some workstreams. That being said, all of this experimentation and implementation needs to be underpinned by providing the necessary guardrails.

AI as a support mechanism for a diverse workforce “AI’s impact is already transforming workplaces in unexpected ways. Tools like ChatGPT have helped neurodiverse employees to reduce the time spent on tasks like drafting emails. This eases anxieties and makes work more manageable. The impact of these goes beyond productivity gains, they create happier and more inclusive environments.

“By giving employees, the tools to work smarter and focus on what matters, AI will can enable organisations to achieve more, while a creating a culture of support and equity.”

AI for good “AI will tackle some of society’s most pressing issues, aligning technological advancements with public good. AI is already making a genuine impact on all areas of society, from projects that utilise AI to take early intervention for at-risk children or speeding up the diagnosis of brain bleeds in hospitals. This is just the start though.

“Through these ‘AI for Good’ initiatives, public services will be enhanced, climate change efforts supported, and the efficiency of critical systems like court services improved.

There will be a shift in mindset from fear of AI to recognising

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how it can enable society to focus on and develop solutions in areas that are most in need.

The next frontier: Agentic AI? “Agentic AI is enabling organisations to automate complex sequences of tasks while keeping humans in the loop.

This shift allows teams to focus on higher-value work, driving innovation and addressing critical challenges with greater efficiency—all within a responsible AI framework.”

Key trends and predictions for Cyber in 2025

Alex Woodward, Senior Vice President Consulting Delivery, Cyber Security, CGI in the UK & Australia has predicted the following Top trends in Cyber Security in 2025.

psychology as opposed to coding for instance.

The Quantum kick-off “Quantum computing has the power to disrupt the cybersecurity landscape next year. Although its growth has been rapid, the technology remains in its infancy and its eventual widespread adoption will bring significant challenges. Upgrading systems to quantum-resistant encryption will not be a simple task; quantum computing excels in specific types of mathematical operations but falls short in others, resulting in newly exploitable weaknesses in some commonly used encryption methods. As a result, industries heavily reliant on long-term data protection face an increased risk of breaches. To mitigate this, organisations must thoroughly understand their encryption methods and the required protection timelines for their sensitive data."

Key trends and predictions for Sustainability in 2025

Tactical deployment of AI “Going into the new year, we will see organisations adopt a hyper-focused approach to AI making more targeted and impactful deployments. Looking for genuine use cases to protect themselves from surface-level attacks and identifying inefficiencies but comes with challenges such as high energy usage costs.

Smarter scams and smarter solutions “Whilst scammers step up the cyber war with more AI-powered social engineering phishing, organisations will fight back aided by ever more sophisticated AI-enabled tools.

“As the tech arms race grows, humanity will be a differentiator. We’ll see an impact of students joining the workforce from more varied academic backgrounds – those studying

Mattie Yeta, Chief Sustainability Officer, CGI, UK has predicted the Top three trends of 2025 for Sustainability.

Increased reporting on nature “Publicly listed companies like CGI operating across industry sectors and geographies represent US$4 trillion in market capitalisation and over 100 financial institutions, including asset owners and managers representing US$14 trillion have volunteered their intention to begin adopting nature reporting as part of their annual corporate reporting for FY2023, FY2024 or FY2025 – so we shall see more of this”

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Stricter frameworks and legislation on environment, social and governance “New ESG regulations aimed at enhancing sustainability transparency and accountability in business practices will come into effect over the next few years.

We will see businesses align with stricter frameworks that mandate reporting across ESG especially the supply chain in a bid to hit goals whilst continuing to accelerate innovation. Government intervention through more stringent guidelines and legislation will intensify efforts.”

Embedding sustainability into core business strategies, supported by technology “In the last 12 months, I’ve seen a big emphasis on the integration of sustainability into different business functions like finance, marketing and operations. At the same time, there has also been a lot of investment in AI. Many organisations are investing to uncover patterns to support sustainability initiatives.”

Rise of green careers and the need for sustainability experts “The demand for sustainability experts within businesses will continue to grow, and this will open doors for green careers and education. Organisations will look at prioritising reskilling initiatives to ensure they tap into existing talent that have a passion for sustainability – but sometimes just lack some of the specific skillsets. This will close the sustainability skills gap, while we wait for new generations of greenspecialists to come into the workforce.”

Transparency and accountability in energy usage for cloud providers “By 2025, hyperscalers and cloud providers will face increased pressure to improve the transparency and accountability of their energy usage. As this evolves, reporting and measuring sustainable IT metrics will grow in importance. On a granular level, there will be a greater adoption of tools like Data Twin 360, which tracks metrics like CPU and memory energy consumption.”

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By Kathryn McKenna

Laoise Toner, EY NI: Why this is a particularly exciting time to be working in technology and the importance of embracing change

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aoise Toner is the Intelligent Automation Manager at EY Northern Ireland. Laoise’s background is in financial operations, account management and IT consultancy and she now works in the EY team driving the delivery of innovative automation solutions to their clients.

to identify opportunities for automation and working with extremely talented teams to roll out the subsequent solutions.

The objective is to identify the essential processes that can be automated to maximise the client's impact. This approach enables the client to concentrate on tasks that cannot be automated, while also freeing up time and resources to help them grow their business and align with their strategic vision.

q Laoise, you have worked as the Intelligent Automation Manager at EY NI since October 2024. Tell us about your role and all that it involves, including the different ways the role adds value to clients of EY:

have worked on recently?

The practice is centred around building relationships with clients to unlock value for them, using digital and emerging technologies. My role focuses on reviewing client processes

Currently, I am working with a utilities provider on a Robotic Process Automation initiative designed to optimise their processes. The project's objective is to implement automation to alleviate the substantial manual effort involved in

I work in the AI and Data team at EY NI, alongside a great bunch of people including Tim Cush – Partner and Head of Intelligent Automation and AI for Ireland.

q Can you talk us through an interesting project you One of the things I enjoy most at EY is the constant rotation of fascinating projects.

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repetitive tasks. This will greatly improve the efficiency and accuracy of their operations, allowing the team to concentrate on more strategically aligned work and achieve quicker turnaround times.

q Growing up, did you have an inspirational role model who worked in the tech sector that helped shape your own career aspirations and at what age did your interest in technology begin?

My interest in technology was sparked during my secondary school years whenever I realised there are so many opportunities within the field. When I was in my Lower Sixth year, I had the opportunity to work with a local Belfast based technology firm which solidified my decision to pursue a career in tech.

I was particularly interested in the constant evolution of technology and the subsequent constant stream of learning opportunities.

During my time at EY NI, I have been greatly inspired by Catriona Campbell, MBE, our Chief Technology and Innovation Officer for UK and Ireland.

Catriona has been a driving force in harnessing technology to help our clients thrive and has made a significant impact on the industry. Catriona is not only an inspiration for women in tech but for every individual working in the tech industry.

q What inspired you to join the field of Intelligent Automation in particular?

My career journey began with a degree in computer science which I was inspired to pursue following my work experience in school. Following this, I commenced a graduate scheme with a local consultancy firm in Newry, where I initially worked in IT with financial clients. I subsequently pursued a Master's degree in Capital Markets, which deepened my understanding and appreciation of the financial sector.

Finance is central to EY's core

service offerings. Additionally, EY has established a robust and dynamic technology consulting division, grounded in extensive experience and the expertise of its team members. I felt that this blend aligns perfectly with my own background.

I am particularly enthusiastic about Intelligent Automation, as it offers limitless opportunities for innovation and transformation. As the world increasingly embraces AI and automation, I feel fortunate to be part of this journey with EY and to learn from some of the most talented professionals in the industry.

q What technologies would you say

defined 2024? What made the most impact and how did you implement them in your role at EY NI?

Throughout 2024, we witnessed several impactful technologies, especially with the ongoing rise of AI and the growing awareness surrounding it. We also observed the continuous evolution of large language models and the advancements that accompany them. All of these developments can inform how we approach and deliver projects for our clients.

q What technologies do you foresee making the biggest impact as we enter 2025 and the years beyond?

Looking forward to 2025 and beyond I anticipate technology will continue to evolve at a steady pace and expect discussions around AI to continue to be quite prominent as more global figures start to speak more about AI. I expect to see a shift towards organisations understanding how they can practically apply AI at this point - moving beyond theoretical conversations to truly implement AI within their organisations.

The tech landscape is very diverse and as the world faces new challenges, with climate change being a key issue, I believe various technologies will emerge to drive transformation. I am excited to

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see how this comes into play with my own projects. The changemakers at EY NI, including previously mentioned EY Partner, Tim Cush, are deeply committed to staying informed and remaining adaptable so that we can support our clients and leverage the right solutions for their needs. It is a very exciting time to be working in a career in technology.

q In terms of the gender imbalance within the tech industry, as a woman working in tech what words of advice do you have for a young girl interested in studying STEM subjects at school or women interested in pursuing technology as a career?

Having been in their position myself, I encourage every young girl considering a career in technology to embrace their curiosity. The tech industry is ever-evolving, offering numerous opportunities for a diverse range of skill sets, including many beyond the traditional route of coding. There are now countless fantastic resources available that weren’t available when I started my studies. . A great example is the EY STEM app - a free-to-use app which is designed to empower girls from the ages of 13 - 18 to pursue STEM subjects using gamified modules.

I believe that developing those skills and fostering interest at an early age is a key step in closing the gender gap that exists within the tech space.

It is important for women and girls to recognise and step into the significant roles they can play as leaders and innovators shaping the world’s technological advancements. To learn more about the immersive EY STEM App, search online for: EY Launches EY STEM App in Schools Across Northern Ireland | EY - Ireland.

EY NI Careers

EY NI is currently recruiting for a range of open opportunities. To stay up to date with career opportunities at EY NI search: Sync NI - Company - EY.

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By Kathryn McKenna

Taking the leap: Lara Sunday on jumping into the world of tech with both feet Lara Sunday, Senior Product Manager at Rapid7 and one of the Directors at BSides Belfast, speaks to Sync NI about her unique pathway into technology

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aving studied Anthropology at Queen’s University, Lara was working in organic farming and social care when she handed in her notice to take the leap and join the Microsoft Security Academy. Just three days later, the Covid pandemic hit – but Lara remained dedicated to her career change.

At the age of 16, Lara was inspired by the film Hackers to learn more about cyber security and began a coding course in North Street, Belfast, where she was the only female in the room. After giving birth to her eldest son, Lara began working in farming and later in events but made the decision to attend university, having taken an Access course and began studying International Politics and Conflict Studies, changing direction whilst at university; she then majored in Anthropology. Whilst attending university, a friend working in a large global firm as a Principal Security Architect encouraged Lara to work in the field, explaining her transferable skills were highly sought after.

Having graduated with a First from Queen's University and gone back into farming, Lara came to the decision that she wanted “to do more” with her life. Lara tells Sync NI: “I reached a point where I wanted to make a change. University truly changes the way you think, and I realised I wasn’t reaching my full potential.”

In serendipitous timing, when Lara began to look into potential opportunities, Microsoft published details of their first ever

Microsoft Security Academy. The competitive selection process saw 600 candidates apply. When Lara was told she was one of just 25 candidates to be selected, she vowed to hand in her notice to her current role the very next day in order to seize the opportunity with both hands. Lara says: “I thought I had nothing to lose. Of course, I had a young family, and there were things to lose. But I prefer to go through life taking opportunities, so I jumped in with both feet.”

Despite Lara’s optimism, the Covid pandemic hit just three days later. With no job guaranteed at the end of the academy, Lara could have been forgiven for doubting her decision.

“There were moments where I thought, what have I done?

But it was one of the most rewarding things I have ever done in my life, and I have now ended up in my dream job,” Lara reveals.

Joining the Rapid7 team

When the academy ended, Lara began working at Microsoft as an Associate Consultant and later as a Consultant before becoming a Security Architect working with large enterprises and the public sector. Lara joined the Rapid7 team in September 2023, hitting the ground running with the Cloud Coverage team and is now heavily involved in governance and compliance.

A highlight for Lara was creating the first proprietary Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) compliance pack, launched by her team in December 2023. She recalls: “To be at the forefront of the development was amazing.”

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Attackers versus defenders

In terms of the most common security challenges for clients, Lara points to customers having visibility of their environments and having an understanding of a company's dependencies and risks of exposure.

This is where the importance of collaboration and cutting out SILOs becomes crucial, as well as the challenges faced in keeping abreast of new regulations.

On the subject of who has the advantage, attackers or defenders, Lara explains there is no definitive answer as the process is a journey rather than a game with a definitive end. Attackers do not face the same challenges of adoption as defenders, they have no need to concern themselves with ethics of how they develop or regulations of who they are able to collaborate with. AI has also significantly lowered the level of talent and skill required to carry out attacks.

In terms of cyber defence, Lara emphasises the strength in the skills, knowledge, and collaboration between governments, public sector, and private sector. “I strongly believe we will always have an advantage of skill and innovation alongside the force in numbers through collaboration. I know people discuss the skills shortages, but when you actually see the work that’s being done, it’s incredible,” she says.

Ethics and regulations at Rapid7

One of the things Lara reveals she values most highly about working at Rapid7 is the diversity of thought and the importance of upholding company values. She explains: “At Rapid7 we work on the basis of TRiSM – which stands for Trust, Risk and Security Management. We often think about AI and ML in terms of technology. One of the things we've heavily leaned into at Rapid7 is our business values as a company. The diversity of thought at Rapid7 is vital.”

Rapid7’s AI Centre of Excellence is made up of stakeholders from across teams who collaborate in the AI space within the company, ensuring the company’s business values are upheld.

“Our company values are intrinsic and are developed into our products. It is very important that we carry regulation and compliance in hand with how we develop products. It is foundational to what we do at Rapid7.”

CSIT

Reflecting on the relationship, Lara summarises that Northern Ireland is “excellent” at collaborating between the private sector and academia. Rapid7 has been building upon its relationship with CSIT since Dr Stuart Millar’s award-winning research in collaboration with the team in 2022, with the official partnership announced in 2023.

“The collaboration, the partnership and the talent pipeline our collaboration with CSIT brings about is extraordinary,” she says. “I believe Accademia plays a pivotal role in connecting the Private and Public Sectors.”

Diversity and accessibility

Having become one of the Directors at BSides Belfast last year, Lara possesses a particular interest in diversity and accessibility. In a bid to improve the experience of people attending BSides Belfast, the team is dedicated to ensuring the conference is as accessible as possible.

The team ensures that the conference is physically accessible for people with disabilities, in addition to providing childcare facilities for anyone without access to childcare to attend the conference, thus removing this important barrier. Additionally, to ensure diversity of thought within the speakers on the day, everybody is encouraged to put forward a proposal when the CFP opens. “Security teams that are more diverse perform better – it is a statistical fact,” Lara explains.

“Diversity and accessibility are both vital

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in terms of measuring our success as a conference.”

Closing the gender gap

With females currently representing just 27 per cent of the tech industry in Northern Ireland, significant work is being conducted to close the gender gap. Speaking from first-hand experience, Lara emphasises the opportunities within tech for those wishing to pursue a career change.

Lara explains: “Don’t let not coming from a tech background put you off.

If tech interests you, you can make the transition by finding the correct pathway.” Lara points to the vast array of academies and apprenticeships on offer in Northern Ireland, including Rapid7’s Emerging Talent Programmes.

“There is a fantastic, friendly, welcoming tech community here in Northern Ireland. I would encourage anyone to reach out if they have any questions.”

Reflecting on how studying anthropology helped her gain skills that have helped her tech career, Lara encourages those interested in tech who initially chose a different career path to consider taking up opportunities such as the academy programmes.

“Companies have realised the benefits of hiring based on character and attitudes they value, they can develop a successful candidate's technical side.”

For young girls interested in STEM subjects at school, Lara advises: “If you are truly interested in STEM, absolutely do it and don’t let anyone put you off.

You only regret the things you don’t try, not the things you do.”

Find out more about Rapid7, including Rapid7’s Emerging Talent Programmes at: rapid7.com.

For Thought Leadership pieces, interviews, Tech Trailblazers and current career opportunities at Rapid7, visit: syncni.com/ company/Rapid7

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 By Fergus O’Donnell, VP Wafer Operations NI

I

The importance of innovation and investing in the next generation for Northern Ireland

n March 1993, when the first sod was turned at what was to be the Seagate Northern Ireland factory, Seagate understood the importance of investing in innovation to grow an impactful business and product. Now, over 30 years later, much has changed both in our facility and across Northern Ireland itself, but our commitment to research and development has never wavered.

Seagate is a world leader in data storage and management solutions, but our Springtown factory is recognised as one of the most advanced fabrication facilities in the world and a leader in innovation and R&D. Springtown is central to the operational development footprint of Seagate globally and our 200mm wafer fabrication facility is the largest in the world for making recording head devices. From a small workforce on a 20-acre greenfield to becoming Derry~Londonderry’s largest employer with over 1,300 staff, we have come a long way.

Today, our facility stands as a testament to Northern Ireland’s potential. Our story of growth is demonstrative of how important innovation and investment are for an organisation itself and also the broader region. To achieve our long-term goals and establish Northern Ireland as a global tech hub, it is necessary for leaders to continue this trend, foster a culture of innovation and invest in the next generation.

Growth through innovation

Innovation is a powerful driver of economic growth and

investing in R&D can create new industries, improve productivity and help to establish Northern Ireland as a hub for cutting-edge technologies. Through research and innovation, organisations can move towards the future by investing in high-tech sectors.

Our investment in an R&D facility not only has produced world-class products and workforce, but it is also leading the way in in advanced manufacturing and research techniques.

For the NI facility, over £4bn has been invested since the factory opened in 1993 supporting efforts that will provide the technology and manufacturing capability that service Hard Disc Drive storage solutions of capacities of 30TB and beyond in the years to come. Our focus in recent years has been on ‘smart manufacturing’, an approach that leverages the power of data-driven insights to optimise processes, reduce waste, and unlock new possibilities for innovation.

As the world increasingly relies on data storage and digital infrastructure, Seagate’s contributions to this sector are helping position Northern Ireland as a key player in the tech ecosystem.

Strengthening global competitiveness

To stay competitive in the global economy, Northern Ireland must continue to invest in research and development (R&D), encourage innovation, share knowledge, and collaborate.

Global competitiveness depends on how well we adapt and

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innovate on the international stage.

Our success and progress are testament to this ethos.

What started as a local success story is now part of a worldwide network driving technological advancements.

The impact of the NI factory goes beyond world leading on-site manufacturing - it provides valuable jobs and helps develop a skilled workforce right across Northern Ireland.

Competitiveness in today’s global economy hinges on having a highly educated, talented team. At Seagate, we’re building an ecosystem that nurtures talent in all areas so we can develop the cutting-edge technologies needed across every part of our business, from R&D to manufacturing.

In this digital age, data is one of the most valuable assets, and Seagate’s leadership in data storage places us at the forefront of global technological innovation.

At our Springtown facility, we produce over a quarter of the world’s read-write transducers and play a major role in transducer development. By investing in R&D and staying ahead of technological trends, organisations can maintain their competitive edge and drive progress across industries.

Innovation not only leads to better products and solutions but also fosters a more competitive environment, ensuring that we continue to lead in an

ever-evolving global market.

A commitment to innovation drives long-term success and keeps Northern Ireland firmly positioned on the international stage.

Investing in the future

As we look toward the next 30 years, the key to sustaining our success is investing in the next generation of talent.

Education plays a critical role in this and it is essential that we continue nurturing young minds and inspiring them to become the innovators of tomorrow.

Through strong academic partnerships with institutions like Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) and Ulster University, we’re contributing to the future growth of Northern Ireland.

Programmes like the Centre for Doctoral Training at QUB have already helped train over 70 PhD graduates, who are now driving innovation within our sector.

Beyond academic partnerships, initiatives like Seagate’s internal trainee technician programmes, along with our move toward higher-level apprenticeships and degree apprenticeships, offer pathways for young people to enter the hightech workforce.

Having a presence in Northern Ireland for over three decades, we are now seeing the next generation of families and communities working at our facility, The support and ecosystem we’ve built here have been instrumental in creating

long-term opportunities for talent to thrive.

Collaboration for growth

Seagate’s success is deeply rooted in the ecosystem we’ve built with government, academia, and industry partners. For over 30 years, we’ve been at the heart of this collaboration, and it has delivered significant benefits to both Seagate and the entire region – and to ensure our continued growth, it is essential that we continue investing in the future of this ecosystem.

Supporting home-grown success stories is crucial for ongoing progress. Seagate has been fortunate to benefit from government grants, particularly through Invest Northern Ireland (INI), which has played a key role in supporting our R&D and training programmes.

This partnership has not only helped Seagate thrive but has also reinforced Northern Ireland’s standing as an attractive destination for high-tech investment, positioning the region for future growth.

Seagate is also a lead company within the Smart Nano NI, a Northern Ireland Consortium which was awarded £42.3m from UK Research and Innovation’s ‘Strength and Places Fund’ to push the boundaries of photonics, smart manufacturing and nano technology innovation. This builds upon the shared specialised capabilities around nano manufacturing and world-leading knowledge in photonics.

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The future of Northern Ireland’s economy depends on continued partnerships from government, business, academia and other stakeholders to nurture this innovation ecosystem. By continuing to collaborate and invest together, we can drive the region’s success and secure its position as a global leader in technology.

To the future

Seagate’s 30-year journey in Northern Ireland demonstrates the power of innovation and the pivotal role R&D plays in economic transformation.

Our investment in smart manufacturing, sustainability, and talent development has allowed us to play our role in the development and growth of Derry~Londonderry and Northern Ireland. We are immensely proud of our heritage here and we hope to inspire the next generation of innovators.

For Northern Ireland to continue its growth as a global leader in innovation, we must prioritise investment in R&D and the next generation of innovators. By nurturing the skills and talents of the next generation, strengthening academic and industry partnerships, and ensuring the necessary government support, we can build a sustainable, prosperous future that benefits not only Northern Ireland but the world. The success of Seagate and similar companies shows us that with the right investments, the possibilities for Northern Ireland are limitless.

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David Crozier CBE, AICC: AI is no longer a choice, it’s a necessity.

How the AICC is empowering businesses to thrive in the AI era.

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s I sit in my study writing this article, one week has passed since two hugely disruptive events hit us, one from the west and one from the east.

The first, Storm Éowyn made landfall last Friday resulting in the loss of power to over 250,000 homes and businesses and the loss of over 10,000 trees on the Mount Stewart Estate alone.

The second, the release of DeepSeek-R1, wiped close to $1 trillion off the value of tech stock trading on the NASDAQ with a model which cost, a much disputed, 95 percent less than OpenAI to train. One a meteorological disruption of biblical proportions, the second a Schumpeterian disruption which has upended our understanding of the costs and opportunities for AI adoption and diffusion here in the region.

As we move towards springtime, green shoots will appear that take advantage of both disruptions. The Artificial Intelligence Collaboration Centre (AICC), established to catalyse AI adoption across Northern Ireland, is witnessing unprecedented interest from organisations seeking to harness these technological advances.

The dramatic reduction in AI development costs, as demonstrated by DeepSeek, has fundamentally altered the accessibility landscape

barriers to entry have fallen dramatically, but the need for careful, strategic implementation remains crucial. This is where AICC's role becomes vital—helping organisations navigate this new landscape safely and effectively.

 David Crozier CBE, AICC

for businesses of all sizes in our region.

This democratisation of AI technology arrives at a pivotal moment. In the months ahead, our centre will engage with hundreds of professionals through our flagship AI Acceleration Tour workshops, helping leadership teams understand not just the technology, but its strategic implications for their operations. The conversations we're having today are markedly different from those of six months ago. Leaders are moving beyond asking 'should we adopt AI?' to 'how quickly can we responsibly implement these solutions?'

In response, we're launching a suite of professional short courses this spring, developed in partnership with industry leaders and academic institutions.

These practical, handson programmes will equip participants with the skills to implement AI solutions effectively and ethically. Alongside

this, our involvement in shaping Northern Ireland's strategic approach to AI has highlighted the critical need for a collaborative approach to AI adoption.

Our vision for 2025 extends beyond training and education. We're refining our AI Transformer Programme, where organisations can access technical expertise, testing environments, and collaborative spaces to prototype and validate AI implementations. This practical, hands-on approach reflects our understanding that successful AI adoption requires more than theoretical knowledge—it demands experimentation, iteration, and shared learning.

The pace of change shows no signs of slowing. Just as Mount Stewart will replant and rebuild, creating new landscapes from storm damage, Northern Ireland's businesses have an unprecedented opportunity to increase productivity and reimagine their operations through AI. The economic

As we look ahead, our commitment is to ensure Northern Ireland isn't just participating in the AI revolution but actively shaping it. We're already seeing local success stories, from manufacturing firms using AI to optimise production processes to healthcare providers developing innovative diagnostic tools. These early adopters are creating a blueprint for others to follow.

The twin disruptions that marked the start of 2025 serve as a powerful reminder that change, whether natural or technological, is inevitable. The question isn't whether to adapt, but how to adapt intelligently and responsibly. Through the AICC, Northern Ireland has the infrastructure, expertise, and support systems in place to turn these challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation.

For those ready to begin their AI journey, our doors are open.

Learn more about the AI Collaboration Centre at aicc. co and connect with us on LinkedIn.

Decision Makers, influencers and thought leaders > Advocating for and serving the local NI technology community > Shining a spotlight on the success stories and achievements of local technology heroes > Encouraging and highlighting the opportunities available to all who wish to forge a career within the local technology sector > Supporting initiatives that promote the uptake of STEM education at every level > Showcasing jobs for those wishing to work within the technology sector > Promoting major events and casual meet-ups to build an exciting community of innovators for future generations

Contact us and find out how we can work for you

02890 820 947 team@syncni.com www.syncni.com/jobs Sync NI is Northern Ireland’s leading technology-focused, multi-channel media platform combining Print, Digital, and Social Media to reach a captive audience of over 100,0000 local IT professionals and tech enthusiasts.