Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD, recently visited Louth and Meath Education and Training Board (LMETB) to officially launch a new apprenticeship in Robotics and Automation.
The new apprenticeship is designed to equip learners with cutting-edge skills in robotics, automation and smart manufacturing. The Robotics and Automation Apprenticeship has been developed in response to growing industry demand for skilled technicians in industrial robotics and automation across Ireland’s manufacturing industries.
Delivered through the apprenticeship model of ‘earn while you learn’, the two-year programme leads to a level 6 Advanced Certificate on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ). LMETB serves as the coordinating provider, with Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR) as the industry lead. The programme will be delivered at the Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre of Excellence (AMTCE) in Dundalk, Co Louth.
The programme provides apprentices with the theory and practical skills required to be employed as a Robotics or Automation technician. It is for those who have recently completed second level education or mature learners who are seeking to retrain. The programme will develop highly skilled technicians capable of designing, installing, maintaining, troubleshooting, and optimising modern automated manufacturing systems.
Learners will cover: Fundamentals of robotics, control systems, and automation, programming, integration, and troubleshooting of industrial systems, maintenance, calibration, and optimisation of smart technology, digital tools, data analytics, and Industry 4.0/5.0 practices as well as communication, teamwork, and project leadership.
Speaking at the launch, Minister Lawless said:
“The Robotics and Automation Apprenticeship illustrates how new, agile learning pathways are helping industry respond to a rapidly changing industrial landscape. With automation now embedded across sectors, businesses are increasingly seeking talented technicians with the expertise to develop, operate, and maintain these advanced systems. This new apprenticeship provides a clear route into that future, offering practical, on-the-job experience with cutting-edge technologies, a QQI level 6 qualification, and the benefit of earning while gaining valuable skills.”
Speaking at the launch of the apprenticeship, Sadie Ward McDermott, Further Education and Training Director, LMETB said:
“Robotics and Automation Apprenticeship represents a significant step forward in how we prepare our workforce for the future of industry. As manufacturing continues to embrace digital transformation, the demand for highly skilled automation technicians has never been greater. This programme provides a direct, accessible pathway into those careers while supporting industry to innovate and grow.”
The apprenticeship programme commences in August 2026 and is now open for applications.
Find out more at www.roboticsapprenticeship.ie or contact raa@lmetb.ie
