CeADAR launches 2024/25 Work-Ready Graduate Programme
6th November 2024
CeADAR, Ireland’s National Centre for AI, has launched its call for applications for its 2024/25 Work-Ready Graduate Programme (WRGP). It is calling on companies across the country to apply for the 12-month industry placement initiative before the end of November.
CeADAR’s CEO, Dr John Lonsdale said: “The Work-Ready Graduate Programme gives companies a great opportunity to innovate their products and processes, working with talented graduates who are supported by CeADAR expertise.
I would encourage any company looking to get ahead in their AI development to apply to this programme.”
This 12-month industry placement initiative, part-funded by Enterprise Ireland, is designed to help Irish businesses explore and implement AI-driven technologies while minimising risk.
It places skilled graduates directly into host companies to work on cutting-edge projects while receiving ongoing technical support from CeADAR’s experts and access to innovative R&D resources. The projects are delivered using innovation Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Data Analytics.
“At CeADAR, we are committed to making AI more accessible to all sectors of the economy,” said WRGP Principal Investigator, Dr Arsalan Shahid. “Our Work-Ready Graduate Programme bridges the gap between academic knowledge and practical industry application, giving companies a unique opportunity to explore AI, ML, and data-driven projects with reduced risk.
Graduates receive hands-on experience while contributing to meaningful projects that drive innovation and efficiency.”
Since launching in 2018/19, the programme has placed Masters-level graduates in over 32 companies spanning a range of sectors including companies working in fintech, wind energy, legal, asset management, and drone development. Host companies include high-potential startups, SMEs, and multinational corporations (MNCs).
With the backing of CeADAR’s extensive R&D resources, host companies have access to technology demonstrators, proofs of concept, and industry-ready AI solutions, while also benefiting from ecosystem networking, funding support, and training.
Graduates gain invaluable, real-world experience under the guidance of a CeADAR mentor, ensuring they are well-equipped with the skills needed to integrate AI into the industry.
Managed by Yvonne Dillon, WRGP Programme Manager, the initiative ensures seamless onboarding, training coordination, and placement support, acting as the bridge between graduates, mentors, and industry partners.
“The CeADAR Work Ready Graduate Programme serves as a vital bridge between academia and industry, delivering mutual benefits to both businesses and graduates. For companies, it offers a low-risk opportunity to explore and enhance their use of AI, elevating products, services, or processes with CeADAR’s expert support. For graduates, the programme provides invaluable hands-on experience, allowing them to apply academic knowledge to real-world projects while gaining practical industry insights.
This partnership fosters meaningful advancements in AI and Machine Learning, driving growth and innovation for all involved.”
Companies interested in hosting a graduate are invited to apply through CeADAR’s website. For further information on CeADAR WRGP, visit https://ceadar.ie/services/wrgp/
