Tech Craic Podcast With Mark Dowds; RESPONSIBLE

In this episode of Tech Craic, Sync NI speaks with Eddie Coghlan from TP ICAP and Kelly Nixon from Vanrath about the evolving landscape of technology in financial services, the importance of recruitment in IT, and the challenges faced by technology departments. They discuss the significance of technology in driving business growth, the demand for new skills in the job market, and the strategies for career development within TP ICAP. The conversation also touches on the future of the IT industry, particularly the impact of AI and the opportunities available for job seekers.

This May marks the return of the Women in Tech Awards in Northern Ireland, hosted by Women in Business, and we’re diving into all the exciting details! Now in its fourth year, this event shines a much-needed spotlight on the incredible women driving the booming tech sector forward. In this episode, Lorraine Acheson shares how the awards have become a platform for recognizing women at all stages of their careers, from apprentices to seasoned leaders. Despite women making up only 29% of the tech workforce and just 5-6% in leadership, these awards are helping close the gender gap and create pathways for the next generation of tech talent. Tune in to hear how these awards are not just about celebrating achievements but also inspiring the future of women in tech. Don't miss out on this inspiring conversation!

In this episode of the Tech Craic Podcast by SYNC N.I., Kathryn McKenna sits down with Lara Sunday, a product manager at Rapid7, to discuss her incredible journey into the tech industry. Starting with a background in anthropology, organic farming, and event management, Lara made a bold career shift during the COVID-19 lockdown when she joined the Microsoft Cybersecurity Academy. From there, she worked her way up to a security architect role at Microsoft, before transitioning to Rapid7. Lara shares insights into her fascinating career path, the importance of cloud security, and her work in AI and ML compliance. Plus, she sheds light on common security challenges faced by businesses today, including visibility, dependencies, and the impact of emerging regulations. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about career growth, cybersecurity, and the power of taking risks in the tech world!

In this episode of The Tech Craic Podcast, SYNC NI are joined by Michelle Simpson, Head of Pen Testing at Vertical Structure. Michelle talks about her personal journey into the world of tech and how she found a passion for security and pen testing. Michelle also gives some great security insights and advice on how to stay safe online - particularly in the busy festive shopping period - as well as career guidance for those upcoming and aspiring Pen Testers.

On the latest Tech Craic Podcast, John talks to Donna Linehan at VenYou about the Scottish Provident Building, one of Belfast's most historical landmarks. John finds out why it's one of the destination workplaces to be in and one of the many offerings that VenYou has for working spaces. The Tech Craic podcast series is available on Soundcloud, Spotify, and iTunes/Apple Podcasts when you search Sync NI or any other of your favourite podcast streaming platforms. Make sure to subscribe and follow for the latest new episodes.

On the latest Tech Craic Podcast, John talks to Mark Dowds, CEO and Founder of RESPONSIBLE, the premium destination for authentic, high-quality, brand-approved secondhand and refurbished streetwear. The Tech Craic podcast series is available on Soundcloud, Spotify, and iTunes/Apple Podcasts when you search Sync NI or any other of your favourite podcast streaming platforms. Make sure to subscribe and follow for the latest new episodes.

This week on the gaming edition of the Tech Craic podcast, our Website & Content Manager John Kelly talks about Northern Ireland in the gaming world and what he's playing at the moment. Listen out at the end of the podcast where John will be announcing the next guest to the podcast. The Tech Craic podcast series is available on Soundcloud, Spotify, and iTunes/Apple Podcasts when you search Sync NI, as well as all the previous episodes. Make sure to subscribe and follow for the latest new episodes.

This week journalist Aoife McDowell chats to Clare McKelvey, Data Scientist at Allstate NI. They discuss her role in the company and her advice to other young women starting off in the sector.

InterTradeIreland’s Seedcorn Investor Readiness Competition 2021, now in its 19th year, has been launched with a €100k cash award for the winning new start or early stage company. Seedcorn Programme Manager, Connor Sweeney and Shannon Beattie, Chief Operations Officer of the 2020 Seedcorn winner, GenoME Diagnostics explain more about the competition and why Northern Ireland's early stage firms should get involved!