Transforming Futures Through the DCU Access Programme
Why We’re Proud to Stand Behind This Initiative
The DCU Access Programme is helping to break down barriers to employment and create new opportunities for talented students across Ireland. Since 2020, ESW has partnered with Dublin City University’s Access to the Workplace programme to provide paid internships that give students hands-on experience across technology, data, finance and product teams.
For me, this programme is about much more than internships. It’s about:
- Reducing structural barriers to employment
- Empowering students to reach their full potential
- Strengthening diversity and inclusion across the Irish tech and business sector
- Equipping the next generation of talent with the confidence and skills they need to thrive
The impact is clear. In 2025, 71% of students secured full-time employment in their field within six months, with over 90% moving directly into employment or further education. Many credit their internship as the pivotal step that opened doors they once thought were closed. Gains in communication, teamwork, technical skills, and self-confidence were consistently reported, and students themselves described the programme as “transformative.”
This year, we were delighted to welcome Phuong into our IT Operations team. From day one, Phuong demonstrated curiosity, adaptability, and strong results on real-world challenges. We are thrilled that he will be rejoining us in early 2026, and I hope he continues his journey with ESW after graduation.
At ESW, we believe that talent is equally distributed, but opportunity is not. That’s why initiatives like ATTW matter so deeply.
Read the full DCU ATTW impact report here.
Interested to learn more about our partnerships? Check out the DIB & Wellness section of Life @ ESW Blog.
At ESW, we believe talent is everywhere and opportunity should be too. If you’re looking to start or grow your career in technology, explore our open opportunities and join a team committed to developing future talent.
