AvCon 2025 Ezine

& Aerospace

Welcome to Altitude: Corporate & Careers As we look back at AvCon 2024, it’s impossible not to feel inspired by the momentum the aviation and aerospace industries created together.

With thousands of students, educators, and professionals gathering both in person and online, the event highlighted the strength of collaboration between industry and the next generation workforce.

From the live-streamed main stage panels to the interactive workshops and exhibits, AvCon 2024 was proof that when education meets innovation, opportunities take flight.

Now, as we set our sights on AvCon 2025, the mission is clear: to grow, to connect, and to showcase the future of aviation and aerospace like never before. This year promises even more dynamic experiences, from global industry panels to the AvCon Afterburner networking event on October 2nd—where we’ll also be unveiling some major announcements for AvCon 2026. Keep an eye on our socials for the reveal, or reach out to the team at hello@AvCon.ie to secure your place. Don’t miss the chance to book early—our 2026 Early Bird closes November 2nd, 2025. The runway to the future is open—let’s take off together.

Photography of AvCon 2024, By: Shanon Irvine

“INSPIRATION BEGINS WITH VISIBILITY—LET THEM SEE IT, AND THEY’LL DARE TO ACHIEVE IT.” Team AvCon

07 August, 2025

AVCON 2025: WHY IRELAND’S LARGEST AVIATION & AEROSPACE EVENT IS THE CATALYST FOR THE FUTURE WORKFORCE WE DESPERATELY NEED

This October, AvCon 2025 – The Future of Aviation and Aerospace returns with even greater ambition and impact. Hosted in Ireland’s oldest operational hangar, in partnership with the Irish Air Corps, AvCon is not just an event — it’s a national mission to bridge the skills gap and inspire the workforce of tomorrow.

Over 8,000 students from every corner of Ireland — from DEIS schools to private colleges — will attend in person, with an additional 14,000 students globally engaging online through TYHub.ie. This hybrid model makes AvCon Ireland’s most significant educational platform for aviation and aerospace careers — and one of the most progressive of its kind in Europe.

Photos by: Shannon Irvine

We don’t need more panel discussions about the skills crisis.

We need action.

Please note: AvCon 2025 is not open to the public — attendance is by registration or invitation only, ensuring a focused and impactful environment for students, educators, and industry professionals.

From Legacy to Liftoff: Ireland’s Role in the Aviation and Aerospace Sector Ireland’s aviation roots run deep.

We’re home to: • The world’s largest aircraft leasing cluster, managing over 60% of the global leased fleet.

• Aerospace manufacturing firms supplying parts and innovation to Airbus, Boeing, and beyond.

• A national carrier in Aer Lingus, globally recognised for pilot training and safety excellence.

• A proud military aviation tradition through the Irish Air Corps, with some of the most advanced air operations in Europe.

So what are we doing about it?

At AvCon 2025, we’re not just talking about the problem — we’re building solutions:

But this legacy won’t sustain itself.

The aerospace sector is forecast to grow by 8.1% annually, while Ireland faces a critical shortage of qualified engineers, technicians, pilots, and data specialists in aviation.

The Talent Crisis is Now — AvCon is the Response The skills shortage isn’t a distant threat — it’s already impacting productivity, innovation, and growth. According to Enterprise Ireland, over 20,000 new skilled aviation workers will be needed across maintenance, engineering, operations, and R&D in the next decade.

Live Career Talks streamed globally, including first-person insights from pilots, aerospace engineers, ATC, MRO leaders, UAV experts, and defence personnel.

Interactive exhibitions where students build drones, simulate aircraft systems, explore AI in aviation, and meet the companies shaping the skies.

B2B and Afterburner Networking Events that connect educators, startups, and industry giants to collaborate in real-time.

Who Do We Need Now? The Industry.

We don’t need more panel discussions about the skills crisis.

We need action.

We’re calling on airlines, MROs, aerospace manufacturers, air navigation providers, defence forces, drone companies, space tech innovators, and aviationadjacent sectors to show up.

Exhibit. Speak. Mentor. Advertise.

Fund student transport. Sponsor school places. Hire interns. Create competitions. Film videos. Be visible.

Because students can’t dream of careers they’ve never heard of.

Your presence at AvCon 2025 isn’t about ticking a CSR box — it’s about safeguarding Ireland’s position in a global industry worth €5 trillion by 2035.

Photos by: Shannon Irvine Be Where the Future Takes Off AvCon is where talent meets opportunity — and where the future of Ireland’s aviation and aerospace workforce begins.

Corporate registrations, speaker opportunities, and exhibitor slots are open now.

Join us at AvCon 2025 — because if you’re not part of the solution, you’re part of the silence.

Please note: AvCon 2025 is not open to the public — attendance is by registration or invitation only, ensuring a focused and impactful environment for students, educators, and industry professionals.

📅 October 2nd, 2025 📍 Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnel 🔗 www.avcon.ie | ✉️ Contact: hello@avcon.ie

Launch Your Aviation Career with the Irish Air Corps Pilot Cadetship Aspiring aviators, this is your chance to soar to new heights and become part of an elite tradition of Irish aviation. Embark on a thrilling journey to the skies with the Irish Air Corps Pilot Cadetship, where dreams take flight and excellence knows no bounds.

Our Pilot Cadetship offers an immersive training experience that encompasses the art and science of aviation. After your basic military training in the Curragh in Co.Kildare you will do everything from mastering aerobatics to honing your skills in precision formation flying. You will receive world-class instruction from instructors from the Flying Training School who are dedicated to shaping the next generation of pilots.

But that's not all: as a Pilot Cadet with the Irish Air Corps, you'll enjoy a competitive salary, comprehensive medical care, and the peace of mind that comes with free accommodation and living expenses during training. Focus on your development and let us take care of the rest, ensuring that you have the support and resources you need to succeed.

WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR? The Irish Air Corps proudly offers a distinguished recruitment pathway to aspiring military pilots, seeking individuals who embody the qualities of courage, discipline, and unwavering dedication.

As a military pilot in the Irish Air Corps, you'll embody the pinnacle of professionalism and expertise, entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding our nation's airspace and defending our values. We're looking for individuals who possess the ability to remain calm under pressure, make split-second decisions, and lead with integrity.

Joining the Irish Air Corps as a military pilot means embracing the role of an officer, where leadership, teamwork, and commitment to service are paramount. From conducting vital reconnaissance maritime missions, to providing medical air support in times of crisis, your role as a military aviator will be pivotal in upholding the security and sovereignty of our nation.

We are seeking individuals who are driven by a passion for aviation, driven by a desire to excel, and inspired by the opportunity to make a difference. As part of our team, you'll receive world-class training, ongoing mentorship, and the opportunity to continuously hone your skills as a pilot and leader.

Whether you are drawn to the thrill of high-speed manoeuvres, or the precision of aerial navigation, our Pilot Cadetship offers a pathway to greatness in the skies. Join us and become part of a proud legacy of excellence, where the sky is not the limit – it's just the beginning.

If you're ready to push the boundaries of possibility, the Irish Air Corps invites you to embark on this extraordinary journey.

Take the first step toward your future as a pilot with the Irish Air Corps Pilot Cadetship. Are you ready to command the skies and become a leader, an officer, a military pilot?

(The following information is for guidance only and does not replace the official Cadetship terms and conditions which should be consulted) For more information: www.Military.ie

Join us and become the best military aviator you can be, serving with honour, distinction, and pride.

The Irish Air Corps - TY Week Contact: actransitionyear@defenceforces.ie The Irish Air Corps - School Visits Contact: aircorpspress@military.ie For Irish Air Corps Careers see www.military.ie Podcasts & Docu-series visit www.TYHub.ie

Contact Darren today!

Let your career take off with Aer Lingus Aer Lingus, Ireland’s flag carrier, and a proud member of the International Airlines Group (IAG), offers a wide range of exciting career paths for those passionate about aviation.

Whether you're drawn to the skies as a cabin crew member, aspire to fly cutting-edge aircraft, or prefer to work behind the scenes ensuring safety and reliability, Aer Lingus has a role for you.

Aer Lingus is a place for those who seek careers with purpose, growth, and global impact.

From check-in to the cockpit and from the cabin to the hangar, every role contributes to the airline delivering safe, efficient, and memorable journeys.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your aviation career to new heights, Aer Lingus provides the training, support, and opportunities to help you succeed.

Cabin Crew Aer Lingus cabin crew are the face of the airline, delivering exceptional service and safety to customers across short and long-haul routes.

Cabin Crew recruits undergo a six-week paid training programme at the Aer Lingus Training Academy in Dublin, covering safety procedures, customer experience, first aid, and aviation regulations. Upon completion of their training, candidates will earn a European EASA Attestation —a globally recognised qualification for Cabin Crew—and full first aid certification.

As well as an attractive remuneration package, Cabin Crew enjoy a range of benefits, including staff travel concessions from day one of their employment. Great career opportunities and career progression are achievable with ongoing training, mentoring and development opportunities within the cabin crew department of Crew Operations.

Long term career prospects include progression to other roles within the Crew Operations Department, such as Senior Cabin Crew member, Cabin Service Manager, Safety/SEP Instructor, Customer Experience Instructor, and Operations Crew Manager.

Pilot Aer Lingus’ Future Pilot Programme is one of the most sought-after programmes of its kind.

The airline offers a fully sponsored 14-month training course that is designed to develop aspiring pilots or those seeking a career change. Graduates of the programme earn a Multicrew Pilot’s Commercial Licence.

Trainees go on to operate some of the most advanced and sustainable aircraft in the industry. Aer Lingus’ fleet includes the recent addition of three new Airbus A321 XLR aircraft. These aircraft deliver up to 20% reduction in fuel burn and CO2 emissions and close to 50% reduction in noise footprint when compared to previous generation aircraft.

Aer Lingus is an airline focused on the continuous training and development of pilots for long and short-haul routes. Aer Lingus trainee pilots progress throughout their careers to First Officer and eventually Captain roles.

Currently, 11% of Aer Lingus Pilots are female. Despite this figure being industry leading, Aer Lingus is keen to see this number grow and actively encourages women to consider applying for the programme.

Engineering Aer Lingus engineers play a vital role in maintaining the airline’s high safety and performance standards.

Aer Lingus’ Aircraft Engineer Apprenticeship Programme offers places for candidates to train on the latest aviation technologies and sustainable aircraft.

The four-year programme, run in conjunction with SOLAS—the Ireland’s further education and training agency based in Shannon, Technological University Dublin, and the South EastTechnological University offers budding engineers handson experience while working towards becoming fully qualified Aircraft Engineers.

Upon completing their apprenticeships, graduates will have the opportunity to launch their careers within Aer Lingus’ Maintenance & Engineering department, where they will have the opportunity to work on a modern fleet of aircraft, including the A320 aircraft, the latest A321 XLR, and the A330.

Apprentices will also earn while they learn during their apprenticeship, as Aer Lingus and SOLAS provides a structured pay scale throughout the 4 years.

The apprenticeship begins in Dublin, followed by 9 months spent in Shannon.

Apprenticesthen return to Dublin where they work alongside experienced Aer Lingus engineers in a structured and supervised environment, while simultaneously studying in TUD or SETU to complete modules for their EASA license.

Aer Lingus Customer Services At Aer Lingus, everyone plays a role in ensuring that we make every journey count for our customers.

Check-in plays an important role as this is usually the first physical contact point for customers and the airline’s ground operations teams ensure that their travel experience begins in the best possible way.

As well as welcoming customers, check-in is also about safety. Check-in teams make sure that customers' visas and passports are in order and ensure that they have packed their own bags. It's about making sure that families get to sit together, reassuring nervous passengers, and generally recognising that what we do on the ground affects the whole journey.

Our Customer Services Team are also responsible for boarding all our passengers onto the correct flights, ticket sales and reservations, baggage tracing, and looking after our AerClub and Business Lounges.

To find out more about career opportunities with Aer Lingus, visit www.aerlingus.com/careers/

Building the Future of Aviation with Drones

By Avtrain – Europe’s Leading Drone Training & Certification Provider

The aviation landscape is evolving at an unprecedented speed. Drones - once thought of as hobbyist tools are now revolutionising industries ranging from emergency response and infrastructure inspection to logistics and environmental monitoring. As we enter this new era, the roles of trust, safety, and training have never been more critical.

"We live by the 3D’s - If it is Dull, Dirty or Dangerous then a drone should be doing it.”

At Avtrain, Our mission is simple: to empower organisations and individuals to fly drones with confidence.

Based in Ireland and operating across Europe, we provide EASA-recognised drone pilot training, certification, and regulatory consultancy. Whether we are training an aerial photographer to take great photos from above, the Irish Coast Guard to use drones in search and rescue operations, or helping infrastructure companies integrate aerial operations into their workflows, we ensure one standard remains constant: compliance and safety at the highest level.

Why Drones Matter to Ireland’s Aviation Community For aviation professionals, drones represent not just a new tool, but a new dimension of the airspace. They extend the capabilities of traditional aviation and open opportunities for data-driven, sustainable, and costeffective operations. From offshore windfarms to emergency medical support, drones are transforming how work gets done.

Ireland, with its innovative aviation ecosystem, is uniquely positioned to lead in this space. By embracing drone integration, we enhance our global competitiveness while creating safer and more efficient skies.

Avtrain’s Commitment to Excellence Skilled remote pilots and compliant operations are at the heart of successful drone adoption. That’s why Avtrain offers: Full suite of drone pilot training, from basic open-category competencies to advanced, beyond visual line of sight operations (BVLOS).

Regulatory expertise, helping companies navigate the complexities of Europe’s EASA drone regulations.

Enterprise solutions, tailoring training and compliance programmes for industries including emergency response, transport, utilities, and more.

Our vision is to make Ireland and Europe the safest and most advanced operating environment for drones in the world - and that requires collaboration across the entire aviation sector.

Looking Ahead The convergence of crewed aviation with uncrewed aircraft presents both challenges and opportunities. It is an opportunity for us as an industry to establish standards, create pathways, and promote innovation - ensuring that drones are integrated into the skies responsibly and efficiently.

At Avtrain, we are proud to sit at this frontier, equipping pilots and organisations to soar into the future with confidence.

To learn more about Avtrain’s training programmes, compliance services, and upcoming initiatives, visit www.avtrain.aero.

About Jackson Square Aviation As a leading global commercial aircraft lessor, JSA is more than just a provider of competitive financing and fleet solutions. We are a dedicated partner, committed to building and maintaining lasting relationships with our current and prospective customers through proactive service and a deep understanding of their evolving needs. Our experienced, international, and professional staff operates with a shared commitment to meeting airlines' challenges worldwide.

Leveraging our extended relationships with aircraft manufacturers, financiers, and other aviation businesses, we offer the fleet and capital flexibility vital to airlines’ fleet replacement and expansion.

Since our founding in 2010, JSA has steadily grown, curating a portfolio of young and efficient Airbus and Boeing aircraft. Today, our owned, committed, and managed fleet stands at 334 aircraft, serving 63 leading airlines across 32 countries.

At the heart of JSA lies a set of core values that define who we are and how we operate. We believe in striving to follow through on our promises, encouraging bold thinking to elevate solutions for ourselves, our customers, and the wider industry. Cultivating collaboration and continuous improvement to ensure our people and practices are fit for tomorrow’s sustainable aviation industry.

Our vision is to lead the way to a sustainable aviation future, connecting people and possibilities with innovation, reliable, and sustainable aircraft leasing solutions. Ultimately, JSA is driven by a genuine desire to be a reliable and forward-thinking partner, contributing not just to the operational needs of airlines but also to the long-term sustainability of the aviation industry. We are more than a lessor; we are a committed collaborator on our customers' journey towards a brighter future.

Jackson Square Aviation maintains offices worldwide and would love to hear from you.

If you have a specific inquiry about aircraft availability within your local region, please contact us at: americas@jsa.com emea@jsa.com asiapacific@jsa.com For general enquiries, please contact us at: info@jsa.com

www.jsa.com

If you’re struggling in the water ...

Tilt your head back with ears submerged

Relax and move your hands to help you stay afloat

Remember it. Share it.

J23584763

Photo: RNLI

The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea The Royal National Lifeboat Institution, a charity registered in England and Wales (209603), Scotland (SC037736), the Republic of Ireland (CHY 2678 and 20003326), the Bailiwick of Jersey (14), the Isle of Man (1308 and 006329F), the Bailiwick of Guernsey and Alderney, of West Quay Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1HZ

elfc is the world’s leading engine financing and leasing company, specialising in the provision of flexible, short to long-term engine support packages for the commercial aviation industry. elfc is a group company of Mitsubishi HC Capital Inc. based in Tokyo. This ownership structure provides elfc with the financing power and stability to satisfy the long-term financing needs of airlines, operators, OEMs, and MROs and to meet the commercial challenges presented by today’s dynamic world markets. elfc’s portfolio includes engine types from CFM, IAE, GE Aviation, Pratt & Whitney, and Rolls-Royce, and after 35 successive years of profit and growth, the company now owns and/or manages 400 engines worth approx. $4.5bn.

Being 100% owners of inav LLC, the Chicago-based parts company, provides elfc with even greater flexibility for end-of-life solutions and in managing the engine portfolio from acquisition through to disassembly and part-out.

With a current customer base of more than 80 airlines, operators, OEM, and MRO organisations worldwide elfc has served more than 250 customers since inception and offers a comprehensive range of individually tailored leasing-based products and services including: •Sale & Lease Back •Short, Medium & Long- Term Leasing •Short Term Engine SV Cover •AOG Engine Support •Portfolio Acquisitions & Dispositions •Engine & Portfolio Management Services

In addition to its Shannon headquarters, elfc has Sales & Marketing representatives based in Boston, London, Beijing, Singapore, Dublin, Madrid, and Sao Paulo.

Please visit www.elfc.com to learn more.

The Adventures of Capt Paddy and Lucky

Hi there, I’m Capt Paddy and he’s Lucky...

You can help too, by visiting our website and following our adventures...

Pop over to www.aviationireland.ie for more info!

We are the two Globe Trotting Bears on adventures...

whilst raising money for two Pawesome Charities!

WWW.AVIATIONIRELAND.IE

Pilot Path

TAKE A MODULAR APROACH

At Pilot Path, we're not only passionate about introducing new individuals to the world of pilot training but also about showing prospective student pilots that there is a clear pathway into their dream career of becoming a commercial pilot. Historically, only a small proportion of people had the resources to follow their dream career, however, through industry leading support, flexible payment plans and tailored training guides, the modular pilot training path through Pilot Path has never been clearer.

Our goal at Pilot Path is to not only support our students through the numerous obstacles that exist within pilot training but also to show the thousands of perspective student pilots in Ireland that the dream they have from the ages of 12 to 16 is a real possibility rather than feeling like an impossible-toreach ambition!

As summer approaches, we're excited to offer our "Introduction to Fly" experience at a special discounted rate of €200 for all students who reference code PilotPathTY when booking their first flight experience.

This hands-on session offers a unique glimpse into the world of flight, perfect for those curious about a career in aviation.

Don't miss this chance to see if the skies are calling you! You can book in for your introduction to flight using the below link and be sure to remember to reference “PilotPathTY” to avail of this exclusive discount!

Select a Date & Time - Calendly For more information on introductions to flight, modular pilot training, student reviews and more, you can reach us at the below: Website - Home - Pilot Path Group Ireland Instagram - @pilotpathgroup

I Can Mechanic!

How One TY Workshop is Driving Student Confidence What happens when you hand tools to TY students and say, "Let’s take apart a real engine"?

Magic. Learning. And a whole lot of curiosity unleashed.

Motoring through schools across Ireland, the “I Can Mechanic” workshop is turning classrooms into garages and students into confident, hands-on problem solvers. Delivered by the brilliant and passionate Ann-Marie Blessing, this high-octane session brings real-world skills into focus – and leaves a lasting impact on every student who picks up a wrench.

TY in the Driver’s Seat Whether it’s understanding engine parts or learning the basics of mechanics and automotive safety, students love the challenge and excitement. Just ask the students and teachers at St. Wolstan’s Community School, where Ann-Marie recently ran a workshop: "Our TYs were completely engaged and came away feeling empowered. It’s such a unique experience that they’ll talk about for months!" – St. Wolstan’s TY Coordinator Why It Works This isn't your average lecture. Ann-Marie’s approach is interactive, hands-on, and filled with good vibes.

The workshop is designed for all students – whether they’re dreaming of working with cars, planes, or just want to learn practical life skills.

It’s all about confidence, curiosity, and getting stuck in.

Book the Workshop for Your School Want to bring I Can Mechanic to your TY group? Head over to www.icanmechanic.com to find out more, see the reviews, and get in touch with Ann-Marie.

Spaces are limited, and this workshop books up FAST – so don’t stall! https://www.icanmechanic.com

Empowering Schools, Students & Families: Prevention is Better Delivers Lasting Impact Schools today face new challenges when it comes to equipping young people with the skills to make safe and informed choices. That’s where Prevention is Better steps in. Their school programmes bring evidence-based, age-appropriate, and interactive education directly to students, teachers, and parents—building stronger communities through awareness, resilience, and prevention.

With three tailored options, schools can choose the level of engagement that best fits their needs: PIB Shield® – A full community programme, with dedicated sessions for students, teachers, and parents, ensuring that everyone receives the same message and tools for change.

PIB Inform® – Focused workshops for teachers and parents, giving them the confidence and strategies to have open and effective conversations with young people.

PIB Intro 101® – An energising student session that uses real-life, relatable stories to break the ice and start honest conversations about alcohol, drugs, nicotine, and the pressures young people face today.

Every session can be delivered online or in-person, making it easy to integrate into the school calendar without disrupting learning time. The content is engaging, relatable, and rooted in real-world experiences that resonate with students while empowering parents and teachers to be part of the conversation.

From Dublin to Shanghai, schools have seen first-hand the benefits: increased student engagement, stronger parental involvement, and a renewed confidence among educators to address difficult topics.

Prevention is Better believes that lasting change begins with awareness. By booking a programme for your school, you’re not just filling a timetable—you’re giving young people the skills, confidence, and support network they need to make safer choices today and in the future.

👉 Learn more and book your school programme now on TYHub.ie.

Sustainability Meets STEAM Learning Free-to-use lesson plans and resources on an easy-to-use platform!

Future Focus21c is all about helping students tackle the challenges of the 21st Century, especially through sustainability and innovation. At the core of this is the Muinín Catalyst Sustainable STEAM platform, which integrates Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Maths with Education for Sustainable Development (ESD).

Developed for educators working with Transition Year students, Muinín Catalyst offers a hands-on, project-based approach to learning. Students work on real-world sustainability problems, developing creative solutions while enhancing their communication, collaboration, and critical thinking skills.

If you’re looking for a fresh, impactful way to engage your students with real-world problems, Muinín Catalyst Sustainable STEAM is a great place to start. We can also offer support in getting started and forward planning or adapting for other age groups.

Check it out at https://www.muinincataly st.com/

What makes Muinín Catalyst Sustainable STEAM special is its focus on interdisciplinary learning. It helps students see the connections between subjects while tackling pressing issues like climate change, resource management, and social justice. The platform provides teachers with free, easy-to-follow resources and project templates, making it easier to bring sustainability into the classroom.

For teachers, Muinín Catalyst Sustainable STEAM also offers professional development opportunities, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge to teach sustainability in meaningful ways. The platform’s effectiveness is backed by research showing improved student engagement and critical thinking.

Soar into the Future Take your students on a journey that will ignite their passion for aviation and open up a world of endless possibilities this school year. Shannon Aviation Museum's Transition Year Aviation Career Field Trips offer the thrill and captivation needed to inspire the next generation in a ‘hands-on, minds-on’ fashion.

An Insight into the Aviation Industry The Aviation Career Field Trips offer an immersive experience. From the moment your students set foot in Shannon Aviation Museum, they'll be greeted by industry experts and guides. They'll have the chance to explore the development of flight through interactive exhibits, get up close to historic aircraft, and uncover the inner workings of modern aviation technology. With hands-on activities including theory of flight and flight simulation we'll ensure your students leave with a newfound appreciation for the science, engineering, and maths behind every flight.

Embark on a Journey of Discovery At Shannon Aviation Museum, we understand that these early experiences can shape the trajectory of a student's future. Our field trips are designed to kindle a spark of curiosity that might one day lead to fulfilling careers in the aviation industry.

www.ShannonAviationMuseum.com

Radio Scouting Ireland – Where Youth, Radio, and STEM Connect Radio Scouting Ireland is a national organisation run by passionate amateur radio enthusiasts and Scouters. Our mission is to support Scout, Guide, and youth groups across Ireland to explore amateur radio and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) in a safe, fun, and accessible way.

We support Scout and Guides, schools and other youth groups across the country in learning how to communicate through radio, experiment with electronics, and discover the excitement of connecting with people all over the world.

Through fun, hands-on activities, Radio Scouting Ireland helps young people gain skills for life while enjoying unique experiences that few others get to try.

What Do We Do? Promote STEM & Amateur Radio Learning RSI encourages scouts and guides of all ages to explore radio communications, electronics, and science. Whether completely new or experienced, we provide resources to help young people grow.

Skills Programme & Badges We’ve designed a nine-stage skills programme with badges at every level, helping members progress from beginner to advanced radio skills.

Leader Training & Support RSI offers one-day training courses for Scout and Guide leaders, giving them confidence to guide young members. We also connect groups with local amateur radio clubs.

Equipment and Donations We act as a hub for donated amateur radio gear, ensuring groups can access the equipment they need to run radio and STEM activities.

JOTA-JOTI & International Events Every year, Scouts worldwide join Jamboree On The Air / Jamboree On The Internet (JOTA-JOTI) to connect across the globe. RSI supports Irish groups to take part.

In 2024, over forty Irish scout groups participated — including a highlight moment when the Irish satellite EIRSAT-1 broadcasted “CQ Jamboree from EI0RSI” for Scouts around the world.

Skills for the Future and future careers: Getting involved in radio scouting and amateur radio gives young people practical abilities that carry forward into their careers and everyday lives: Clear communication – learning to share ideas simply and effectively Self-paced learning & determination – taking control of your own progress Problem solving – finding solutions when things don’t go to plan Pushing boundaries – trying new things and exploring new technologies Planning & preparation – “fail to prepare – prepare to fail” Ethics & discipline – respecting radio protocols and licence rules Global citizenship – connecting with people across borders and cultures Teamwork – working together during field days, events, and competitions

Beyond Skills – The Extra Benefits While the skills are hugely valuable, the real magic of Radio Scouting lies in the experiences: Friendships that last – sharing fun and challenges builds strong bonds Lots of fun – from field activities to international radio events Meeting new people – hearing different voices and perspectives from around the world Blending passions – combining radio with scouting, education, outdoor adventure, and more...

Get Involved Whether you’re a Scout or guide leader, a young person, a teacher or licensed amateur radio operator, there’s a place for you in Radio Scouting Ireland.

Join us to inspire the next generation of global citizens through radio and STEM! Learn more and connect at www.radioscouting.ie

👉

www.AvCon.ie

Beyond the Hangar: How AvCon 2024 Took Flight Around the World AvCon 2024 – Aviation’s Biggest Classroom Went Global & In-Person AvCon 2024 – The Future of Aviation took flight on November 7th at Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnel, in proud partnership with the Irish Air Corps, TY Hub, and an incredible network of national and international event partners.

This wasn’t just an event—it was a movement.

A record-breaking celebration of aerospace, engineering, and aviation careers, AvCon 2024 brought together over 50 leading voices from the world of aviation and space.

From pilots to propulsion engineers, air traffic controllers to rocket scientists, and start-ups to global giants, AvCon was a one-day deep dive into the future of flight.

In Person: A Runway of Possibilities Over 6,000 students filled the hangars and halls of Baldonnel for a hands-on, face-toface experience that sparked curiosity and launched ambitions. With career talks, tech demos, and exhibitor engagement zones, students met the people shaping the skies of tomorrow.

More than 50 organisations, companies, and experts joined forces to inspire—from aerospace engineers and aviation colleges to military careers, drone tech, and space exploration.

Online: TY Hub LIVE Went Global While the hangars buzzed in Baldonnel, the skies opened worldwide.

Through TY Hub LIVE, AvCon 2024 was live-streamed for 6 full hours, reaching over 7,000 students globally. From classrooms in rural Ireland to international schools across Europe and beyond, students engaged with expert panels, behind-the-scenes footage, and real-time Q&As. “It was aviation without borders. Our students here in Spain loved every minute.”

“TY Hub LIVE gave my students access to opportunities they wouldn’t otherwise see.” – Teacher, Canada

AvCon Photos by: Shannon Irvine

Collaboration at Its Core AvCon 2024 was made possible through the incredible partnership between: TY Hub – bringing digital reach and educational innovation The Irish Air Corps – providing an inspiring host venue and top-tier speakers Event Partners & Sponsors – from training academies to aerospace tech firms, all working together to empower the next generation This was not just an event, but a collaborative blueprint for inspiring global talent through shared passion, purpose, and possibility.

Why I’m avoiding uploading my image to the AI doll generator Hidden Risks of Sharing Images with AI Generators

📸

Article By: Wayne Denner | www.waynedenner.com Trainer | Online Safety | Safeguarding | Technology Risk | Event Facilitator

April 15, 2025 It’s all the craze at the moment your friends suddenly shrunk into pocket-sized versions of themselves on social media?

It’s the latest AI trend — people are using tools like ChatGPT and Copilot to turn themselves into tiny action figures, doll-style avatars, and even miniature collectibles. Cute? Definitely.

But let’s talk about what’s hiding in the background…

Let’s be honest — AI image tools are amazing. You upload a picture, type a few prompts, and suddenly you’ve got an image, a cartoon version of your dog, or a dreamy travel background with zero Photoshop skills.

But here’s what we’re not talking about enough: What happens to that image after you hit “upload”? And more importantly — what did you accidentally share in the process?

We’re entering an era where AI tools are everywhere. They’re in our phones, our classrooms, our creative tools, and our social media feeds. And while they unlock a world of creativity and convenience, they also open the door to real privacy risks — especially when we’re uploading images that include faces, children, locations, or background details we don’t even notice.

If you’ve ever uploaded a family photo to “make it Pixar-style,” or tried one of those “AI yearbook” trends, or even dropped an image into ChatGPT to get help with something — this one’s for you.

So let’s explore: What you might be unknowingly sharing when you upload a photo Why metadata matters (and how to remove it) The risks of facial recognition and identity theft How to safely use AI image tools without oversharing Because here’s the thing: just because you can upload an image doesn’t mean you should.

What You’re Really Sharing When You Upload a Photo Most people think they’re just uploading a simple image — but here’s what might be embedded in that file: Faces and identities: AI can detect and process faces even in group photos or backgrounds.

Sensitive backgrounds: A school logo on a uniform, a child’s bedroom, or a home address on an envelope in the background — it’s all data.

Metadata (EXIF data): Many photos from phones contain hidden data like your GPS location, the exact date and time it was taken, and even what device you used.

👀 If someone wanted to track you, images are often easier to exploit than text.

AI Doesn’t “Forget” the Way Humans Do When you upload an image into an AI tool — especially one that doesn’t clearly state its privacy practices — it might: Store your image on a server Use it to train future AI models Share data with third parties or advertisers Even if the AI tool says it “anonymizes” the image, that doesn’t mean the data is gone. In many cases, your image could live on long after you’ve forgotten about it.

The Risks: From Identity Theft to Misuse of Children’s Photos Here’s where it gets serious — especially for parents Facial recognition: Some tools can scan, store, and match faces with online profiles — creating a digital fingerprint you didn’t intend to give.

AI misuse: Images of children or teens could be altered, cloned, or misused in unethical ways — even becoming part of deepfakes.

Consent issues: If you're uploading a group photo or a child’s image, have they consented to that image being used by an AI system?

This is why many privacy experts advise against uploading photos of children to any AI-powered tool — even “just for fun.”

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