Beyond Computing

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The Beyond Computing project was a collaborative cross-border project between the South West College (SWC) and the Institute of Technology Sligo (IT Sligo) where the aim was to establish 3 strategically placed, interlinked and accessible new technology and media resource centres in Omagh, Enniskillen and Sligo. Grant aid was provided to enhance awareness and usage of new technologies and media among firms and community groups in the project area, which in turn would have a positive impact on employment opportunities in a region suffering from the legacy of the conflict. Equipment capabilities included; Rapid prototyping that enabled production of full colour 3D models and 3D scanning for reverse engineering; Environmental mapping which provided support in the area of communication involving spatial distribution and also investigating GIS as an analytical tool; and lastly Media production services and support such as video production and sound recording equipment to enable professional media recording, mixing and mastering. After a successful application for a project extension further resources were acquired to have an anaerobic Digestion training facility, energy monitoring equipment and thermal imaging facilities, PCB milling equipment, PLC/Scada equipment and additional GIS equipment such as a robotic total surveying station. Beyond Computing has helped produce high calibre graduates capable of working with cutting edge technologies; who can contribute to the knowledge transfer from higher education to industry. Furthermore, by reaching out to second level schools, the project has undoubtedly helped attract prospective science and engineering students. The project also hosted some high profile events with seminars from a former Director of the United Nations’ Fund for Science and Technology within the UN, Rustam Lalkaka and Adrian Birrell, former coach of the Irish Cricket Team. As the INTERREG IIIA funding period draws to a close it’s not the end for the Beyond Computing at the South West College and IT Sligo as the equipment, facilities and knowledge transfer will continue long into the future.

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