Stryker honours three female Cork STEM students

Three of Cork’s highest-achieving female students have been recognised by medical technologies company Stryker, at the WISE UP Technological Awards to celebrate outstanding academic achievement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Founded by Stryker’s WISE (Women in Stryker’s Engineering) team in Anngrove, the annual award recognises outstanding students from Cork’s all-girls secondary schools who have achieved at least three H1 grades in STEM subjects in their Leaving Certificate and who have chosen to pursue STEM degrees at Irish universities.

This year’s winners include Gemma Collins and Abi O’Connor from St. Aloysius Secondary School, and Aoibhe Sparrow from Mount Mercy College.

Speaking at the event, Mag O’Keeffe, vice president of advanced operations and global additive technologies at Stryker, said: “The WISE Group at Stryker’s Anngrove location are delighted to present the WISE UP Technological Awards to these outstanding students who have shown a real passion for STEM.

“These awards are about more than academic achievement – they’re about recognising potential, encouraging ambition, and showing young women that there is a place for them at the forefront of innovation.” Ms Sparrow said: “Winning this award is an incredible honour that means so much to me. 

"It represents recognition of my hard work, passion, and commitment to pursuing a future in science and technology.

“This opportunity not only supports my education but also motivates me to keep learning, innovating, and using my education to create positive change in the world.

“I am especially excited to continue my journey in pharmacy, where I hope to gain the knowledge and skills needed to make a meaningful impact on patients' lives through the development, preparation, and dispensing of medications.” Tricia Ryan, principal at Mount Mercy College, added: “We are delighted that one of our students has been honoured with this Stryker WISE Technological award.

“This recognition not only celebrates the talent, dedication, and potential of the student, but also reflects the strong values and high standards we strive to nurture in our school community. It is very encouraging to see a leading company like Stryker acknowledge the achievements of our young people.”