We often ask young people what they want to be when they grow up, but for many, those dreams can feel out of reach. Barriers - whether financial, geographical, or societal - can make certain career paths seem impossible.
For years, young women have been underrepresented in STEM, often feeling like these careers weren't meant for them. Thankfully, that's changing!
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths (STEM) offer some of the most exciting and impactful career opportunities, from developing life-saving medical technologies to pioneering sustainable solutions.
These industries are shaping the world and there's a growing recognition that women belong at the forefront of this innovation.
Breaking down barriers and ensuring that young women see themselves in STEM is crucial - and that's exactly what Iarnród Éireann is committed to doing through their partnership with iWish.
For the third year running, the operator of Ireland's national railway network has partnered up with iWish to provide free travel to second-level female students attending the inspiring event which takes place today in the RDS, Dublin.
Since joining forces with iWish in 2023, Iarnród Éireann has already helped over 2,400 students attend this exciting and hugely inspiring event, bringing them one step closer to a fulfilling career.
To date, this volunteer lead initiative has introduced over 62,688 Irish girls to the power of STEM, with demand growing each year as more and more students and teachers recognise the incredible opportunities these careers can offer.
This partnership is about so much more than a free train ride, however; it's about ensuring that no girl is left behind when it comes to accessing life-changing career inspiration.
By removing financial and logistical barriers, Iarnród Éireann is making sure that young women from every corner of the country have the chance to explore the vast possibilities in STEM.
This year's showcase in the RDS boasts an impressive lineup of industry leaders including Jim Meade, CEO of Iarnród Éireann, who will share insights into career pathways in transport, infrastructure and digital technology.
Heidi Hopper-Duffy, Operations Environmental & Sustainability Manager, Iarnród Éireann, meanwhile, will highlight the essential role of sustainability in STEM fields.
Adding to the excitement, attendees will also hear from inspiring role models like Irish Olympic rower Zoë Hyde, pioneering rally driver Aoife Raftery, and Áine Ní Chaoindealbháin, Managing Director of Virgin Media Television - each proving that there's no limit to what women can achieve.
Iarnród Éireann continues to champion a diverse and inclusive future in transport offering careers from electrical, mechanical, electronic engineering to environmental and sustainability and cybersecurity roles.
