On 25 September, GemX launched the MakeME Academy at the Waterfoot Hotel, Derry, bringing together 14 local schools and companies. Keynote speakers included Stephen Kelly, Gavin Killeen, Alistair Cameron, Jennifer Neff, Brendan McGinn, and the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council.
With support from Derry City and Strabane District Council, The James Kane Foundation, The Royal Academy of Engineering, and other partners, the event created a real buzz, sparking valuable discussion and connections between students and industry.
Michael Wilson, Chair of the James Kane Foundation, said:
“The James Kane Foundation is committed to advancing education, skills, and career opportunities, and is delighted to be supporting this initiative.”
The programme is based on a simple but powerful model: a company adopts a school. Pupils gain real-world insights, companies connect with future talent, and schools strengthen ties with industry. Together, GemX and its partners are unlocking potential and investing in the future of Northern Ireland’s engineering and manufacturing sector.