IBM Marks 70 Years in Ireland with €11.5m Technology Investment for South East Technological University
IBM has marked its 70th year in Ireland with the announcement of a major technology investment at South East Technological University (SETU) Waterford, providing equipment and systems valued at €11.5 million, including an IBM z17 mainframe.
The IBM z17 has been installed at the university under an educational loan arrangement and will be used to support teaching, research and skills development. Responsible for processing approximately 70% of the world’s transaction value, the IBM Z platform will provide students in areas such as computer science, engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and data analytics with direct experience of enterprise-level computing technology.
SETU President Veronica Campbell described the initiative as a significant opportunity for the university and its students.
The provision of the z17 mainframe from IBM to SETU will be transformative for our students and researchers. This collaboration is in line with SETU’s strategic plan, which positions the university as a driver of innovation and change for the region, its communities, and partners.
“By providing direct, hands-on access to this enterprise-grade technology, we are creating an invaluable student opportunity that bridges the gap between academic study and real-world practical skills within high-demand professional domains.
Welcoming the announcement, Taoiseach Mícheál Martin said:
For 70 years, IBM has contributed to Ireland’s growth by investing in technology, skills, and innovation. This latest support to boost education and research will help equip the next generation with the capabilities required for the AI era, whilst strengthening Ireland’s position as a hub for advanced enterprise technology.
This commitment by IBM reflects Ireland’s ambition to build long-term, sustainable leadership in digital innovation.
Over the past two years, IBM has announced more than 850 highly skilled positions across its operations in Dublin, Cork and Waterford, spanning research and development, IBM Z technologies, consulting services and sales functions.
Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke said:
Ireland’s future competitiveness will be shaped in part by how well we equip people with the skills needed for emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing and trusted digital infrastructure.
IBM’s collaboration with South-East Technological University demonstrates the value of strong industry-academic partnerships in building talent, strengthening economic resilience, and preparing students and graduates for the technologies that will drive Ireland’s next phase of digital growth.
IDA Ireland Chief Executive Michael Lohan said the announcement highlights the benefits of long-standing collaboration between multinational companies and Ireland’s education sector.
IBM’s 70-year track record in Ireland is a powerful example of how long-term partnership can deliver sustained economic and societal impact.
This latest investment in advanced infrastructure at SETU directly supports IDA Ireland’s strategy to drive regional growth, deepen the talent pipeline and strengthen Ireland’s position as a global hub for digitalisation, AI and high-value FDI.
We are proud to work with IBM as it continues to innovate and invest here, and we welcome the opportunities this initiative will create for students, researchers, and employers across the country.
