Primary school students across Ireland have been lauded for their creativity and problem-solving skills in the Empower3D competition, a national 3D printing design challenge spearheaded by Stryker. Focused on fostering STEM education, the programme encourages students to devise practical solutions to real-world problems in their school communities using 3D printing technology. This initiative not only celebrates young talent but also highlights the importance of embedding advanced manufacturing skills at an early age.

## Empower3D Competition: An Overview

Empower3D is a collaborative effort between Stryker, a global leader in medical technologies, and I-Form, Research Ireland’s Centre for Advanced Manufacturing. Since its inception in 2021, the programme has provided primary school teachers in Ireland with the necessary tools and training to incorporate 3D printing into their curriculum. Over 160 teachers and 3,200 students have participated, including more than 500 from DEIS schools, which cater to disadvantaged communities.

The competition’s conclusion for the 2025/2026 academic year saw Cork’s St. Catherine’s National School and Bishopstown’s Scoil Barra Naofa, as well as Newport Convent Primary School in County Tipperary and Aston Village Educate Together National School in County Louth, emerge as winners. Categories included Best Sustainable Design and Best Learning Journey, reflecting the programme’s focus on sustainability and educational impact.

## Fostering Skills for the Future

Empower3D places a strong emphasis on teaching students design thinking and teamwork, key skills for future engineers and innovators. Projects are developed from initial concepts through to testing and refinement, with students recognised for their process as well as their final designs. For example, St Catherine’s National School in Bishopstown was celebrated for their Lunch Box Clip project, which tackled everyday challenges within the school environment.

Eimear Cummins, a teacher at St Catherine’s, noted the rapid development of students’ skills and confidence. The programme facilitated their first exposure to 3D design and printing, encouraging them to think critically and learn iteratively. This hands-on experience is invaluable in helping students understand how their ideas can translate into practical solutions, fostering a new generation of problem-solvers.

## Implications for the Irish and European Tech Ecosystem

The success of Empower3D underscores the growing importance of integrating advanced manufacturing and STEM education in primary schools. As Europe grapples with a digital skills gap, initiatives like this are crucial in nurturing talent from a young age. For Irish and European founders and engineers, this signals a potential future workforce equipped with the skills needed in high-tech industries.

Furthermore, the programme aligns with broader EU goals of promoting digital literacy and sustainability, supporting initiatives funded through the Erasmus+ Programme. It also aligns with the EU’s focus on advanced manufacturing as part of its broader industrial strategy. As the demand for skilled engineers and innovators increases, such educational programmes can play a pivotal role in maintaining Europe’s competitiveness on the global stage.

## What’s Next for Empower3D?

Looking ahead, the continued expansion of the Empower3D programme could see further integration into schools across Europe, potentially influencing educational policy on a broader scale. As these young students progress through their education, they carry with them not only the skills learned through Empower3D but also an innovative mindset that could influence future technological developments.

For Irish and European investors, this presents a unique opportunity to engage with and support the next wave of tech talent. Early investment in education and skill development can yield long-term benefits, ensuring a robust pipeline of skilled professionals ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow’s tech landscape.