Davitt College Students Inspired by Business Leaders at Accelerate
💼 Business • Enterprise • Career Learning Davitt College Students Inspired by Business Leaders at Accelerate 11 September 2026 Davitt College students had the opportunity to step beyond the classroom and into the world of business, enterprise and innovation at Accelerate, an inspiring event organised by Castlebar Chamber at Breaffy House Resort. The event brought students face-to-face with some of Ireland’s most experienced and influential business figures, offering a valuable insight into entrepreneurship, leadership, innovation and the journeys behind successful organisations. Opportunities such as this play an important role in helping students connect their classroom learning with the wider world of work. Hearing directly from business leaders allows young people to see the variety of pathways available to them and to understand the ambition, resilience and creativity that underpin successful careers. Learning from Leaders in Business Entrepreneurship & Digital Media Niall McGarry Founder of Joe.ie and Fabric Social. Aviation & Regional Development Joe Gilmore Ireland West Airport. Technology & Leadership Cathriona Hallahan Former Managing Director of Microsoft Ireland. Enterprise & E-Commerce Ciaran Crean Co-founder of Mick’s Garage. For our students, the evening provided much more than an introduction to successful companies and careers. It offered an opportunity to hear the stories behind those successes — the ideas that sparked new ventures, the challenges encountered along the way and the determination required to turn ambition into achievement. We are delighted that our students were able to take part in such a valuable local event and engage with people operating at the highest levels of Irish business. Experiences like Accelerate encourage students to think confidently about their own futures and to recognise that innovation, enterprise and opportunity can begin with a single idea. An inspiring evening of ideas, ambition and opportunity — and a valuable glimpse into the possibilities that lie ahead for our students.
