On Thursday, 20 March, two classes from the Datacenter Academy had the privilege of visiting TU Dublin - Blanchardstown Campus, an experience filled with inspiration, discovery, and exploration. Coláiste Dhúlaigh (CDCFE) and Whitehall College of Further Education were also on the visit with us. This visit provided a firsthand glimpse into the progression routes to TU Dublin and the diverse range of courses available. Tom Nolan, Lecturer in Informatics & Cyber Security and Program Co-Ordinator for Blanchardstown campus was our host and presenter.
The sessions were hosted in the state-of-the-art Collaboratory facility—a lab equipped with its own data center and advanced technology. The Collaboratory stands as a hub for innovation and industry solutions, offering essential support to Irish start-ups, SMEs, and professionals working in areas such as Data Governance, Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, Smart Devices, and Fintech. With industry-certified training programs, executive event venue hire, and consultancy services, the Collaboratory is truly at the forefront of technological advancement.
A highlight of the day was hearing from former Collinstown Park Community College student Karolis Pocius. Now in his third year of studies at TU Dublin, Karolis shared his journey from Collinstown to becoming a skilled and experienced professional in the field. His inspiring story showcased the wealth of hands-on experience he has gained, along with the opportunities that have opened up for him since progressing to higher education.
For the current Datacenter Academy students, the visit was eye-opening. It not only offered insights into TU Dublin's programs, such as the Secure Networking and Cloud Technologies (Learn and Work) Level 7 course and other degrees in Networking and Cybersecurity but also underscored the pathways available to those aspiring to continue their academic journey. The students left with a deeper understanding of the possibilities that await them—and perhaps a new sense of determination to follow in Karolis' footsteps.
Karolis' story and the incredible experience at the Collaboratory highlighted the transformative power of education and ambition, leaving a lasting impression on all those who attended.