High-Flyers in STEM

In this episode of High-Flyers in STEM #GreatnessHasNoGender, host Deirdre Finnerty sits down with Anastasija Ponomarjova, Production Unit Manager, and Michelle Martin, Senior Quality Engineer at MGS Healthcare Manufacturing, to talk about what it really takes to thrive in the world of high-precision manufacturing. 

This episode proves that you don’t always have to start with a perfect plan. Through a mix of curiosity, resilience, and straight-up determination, Anastasija and Michelle carved out careers that challenge expectations, from managing the pressures of production to making tough calls on quality in a high-stakes industry, they share the moments that shaped them, the lessons they’ve learned, and why being the only woman in the room isn’t the conversation we should still be having. 

MGS Manufacturing fosters a culture of expertise, leadership, and backing the best people for the job. This episode is a real look at what’s changing in the industry, what still needs to shift, and why the future of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math’s) belongs to those willing to step up and own it. 

Thank you to our sponsors Fenero, a multi-award-winning company dedicated to financial success for contractors, freelancers, and solopreneurs. 

For more updates on #GreatnessHasNoGender, follow HERO on LinkedIn, reach out to [email protected], or explore job opportunities in STEM: Permanent Careers, Contracting Careers. 

Available now on YouTube, iTunes, and Spotify. 

#GreatnessHasNoGender 

In Episode 3 of High-Flyers in STEM – #GreatnessHasNoGender, we sit down with two leaders from Novo Nordisk Production Ireland, Pauline Guinan, Senior Director of Analytical Development, and Aisling Horan, Associate Director of Validation. 

Hosted by Deirdre Finnerty, this conversation explores the power of commitment—and how true growth can come from embracing opportunities before you feel ready, fueled by the belief and trust of those who see your potential even when you don’t. Pauline and Aisling share their journeys from the lab to leadership and the moments that proved confidence isn’t something you’re born with—it’s something you build. 

At Novo Nordisk Production Ireland, diversity and inclusion are embedded in the culture. From mentorship that truly makes a difference to leadership programmes designed to elevate talent, this episode explores how the right support can transform not just careers, but entire industries. 

Thank you to our sponsors, Fenero—a multi-award-winning company that champions financial success for contractors, freelancers, and solopreneurs. 

For more on #GreatnessHasNoGender, follow HERO on LinkedIn, reach out to [email protected], or explore career opportunities in STEM: Permanent Careers | Contracting Careers. 

Available now on YouTube, iTunes, and Spotify. #GreatnessHasNoGender 

Join us in this episode of High-Flyers in STEM - #GreatnessHasNoGender, where we sit down with two leaders shaping the future at Beckman Coulter: Orlaith Lawler, Vice President of EU Operations, and Sarah Keane, Senior Manager of EHS. 

Hosted by Deirdre Finnerty, Director at HERO Recruitment, this conversation delves into what it takes to lead in STEM while ensuring an inclusive, level playing field for all. From navigating their careers without rigid plans to the moments that pushed them to grow, Orlaith and Sarah share true insights on leadership, resilience, and the importance of backing yourself—especially in an industry that’s constantly evolving. 

At Beckman Coulter, inclusion isn’t just a buzzword—it’s ingrained in how they operate. With a culture where every voice matters, from the factory floor to the boardroom, this episode explores how the right policies, open conversations, and a commitment to real equity are setting new standards. 

Tune in for an authentic discussion on breaking down barriers, finding balance, and why the best person for the job is always what matters most. 

A huge thank you to our sponsors, Fenero—a multi-award-winning company that champions financial success for contractors, freelancers, and solopreneurs. 

For more on #GreatnessHasNoGender, follow HERO on LinkedIn, reach out to [email protected], or explore career opportunities in STEM: Permanent Careers | Contracting Careers. 

Available now on YouTube, iTunes, and Spotify. #GreatnessHasNoGender 

We’re launching a new season of High-Flyers in STEM - #GreatnessHasNoGender, the podcast by HERO Recruitment that spotlights the leaders shaping the future of STEM. In this first episode, Deirdre Finnerty sits down with Antoinette Curtin, Quality Assurance Director, and Sinéad Finn, Staff Process Engineer at Dexcom. From Dexcom’s state-of-the-art facility in Athenry, they’re not just advancing continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology—they’re setting new standards in diabetes care and redefining what leadership in STEM looks like. 

Antoinette and Sinead share the pivotal moments that shaped their careers—the mentors who challenged them, the setbacks that tested them, and the choices that defined their paths to leadership. They speak openly about stepping into senior roles, navigating uncertainty, and the reality of leading with conviction, adaptability, and a willingness to learn. 

At Dexcom, leadership isn’t about fitting a mold—it’s about expertise, impact, and pushing boundaries. Antoinette and Sinead offer an inside look at a workplace that values skill over stereotypes and why it’s time to rethink who we see as leaders in STEM. 

A special thank you to our sponsors Fenero, a multi-award-winning company that specialises in the financial success for contractors, freelancers and solopreneurs. 

For more updates on #GreatnessHasNoGender, follow HERO on LinkedIn, reach out at [email protected], or explore our latest STEM job opportunities: Permanent Careers and Contracting Careers. 

Now streaming on YouTube, iTunes, and Spotify. 

Join us for the final episode of High-Flyers in STEM #GreatnessHasNoGender, hosted by Deirdre Finnerty, Director at HERO Recruitment, as we welcome Samantha Murphy, Business Unit Manager, and Aine Brennan, Value Stream Lead at West. Together, they share their phenomenal journeys, offering insight into what it takes to lead and inspire in STEM. 

Samantha’s transition from a Bachelor of Arts to engineering wasn’t just a career shift—it was a bold leap into a world where her passion for problem-solving could save lives. Aine’s journey began with a teacher who transformed her view of maths, igniting a love for engineering that propelled her into leadership at West. 

Samantha and Aine reflect on the defining experiences that have shaped their careers—from tackling challenges head-on to seizing opportunities that reshaped their perspectives. They discuss how the mentorship and inclusive culture at West champions female leaders, enabling them to grow and empower their teams. Their stories demonstrate the real impact of equity, diversity, and inclusion in creating meaningful change within workplaces and beyond. 

 At West, upholding an inclusive workplace isn’t just an initiative—it’s a movement. Their career path programme for technicians has driven a significant increase in female representation on the moulding team in just two years. West mentorship programmes have played a pivotal role in creating a “see it, be it” culture, helping women gain the confidence to build fulfilling careers in STEM. 

Don’t miss this inspiring episode, where Samantha and Aine showcase how West is shaping a future of opportunity and inclusion, one story at a time. 

A special thanks to our sponsor Fenero, a multi-award-winning company that specialises in financial success for contractors, freelancers, and solopreneurs. 

For more updates on #GreatnessHasNoGender, follow HERO on LinkedIn [LinkedIn URL], reach out to [email protected], or explore exciting job opportunities in STEM Permanent STEM jobs, Contracting STEM jobs.

Available now on YouTube, iTunes, and Spotify.
Let’s celebrate the voices shaping STEM’s future. #GreatnessHasNoGender 

Join us for a fresh new episode of High-Flyers in STEM #GreatnessHasNoGender, hosted by Deirdre Finnerty, Director at HERO Recruitment. This week, we welcome two pioneering women from MCC Label: Maria Noonan Shanahan, Operations Lead for Ireland, and Deirdre Drennan, Quality Manager. They're redefining what's possible in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math’s), leading with purpose, resilience, and a dedication to driving meaningful change. 

In this episode, Maria and Deirdre share the moments that have defined their careers and discuss their unique paths in a field where their voices make a profound impact. Maria’s story is one of extraordinary growth, as she progressed from the production line to now overseeing two major MCC sites in Ireland. Deirdre’s career shift into STEM brings a fresh perspective to quality management, underscoring how ambition and determination can open doors to unexpected opportunities. 

MCC Label’s commitment to inclusivity shines through in every aspect of their work. Recently, MCC’s Irish sites united for a fundraising campaign supporting Ukrainian refugees, raising over €2,000 with matched contributions directed to the International Committee for the Red Cross. This initiative is just one example of how MCC prioritises teamwork, compassion, and support for its global community. Additionally, their ongoing support for disability groups on-site reflects a genuine drive toward accessibility and inclusivity in the workplace. 

Tune in to hear Maria and Deirdre’s remarkable stories, and discover how MCC’s inclusive values and dedicated ED&I initiatives empower their teams to break new ground in STEM. 

Catch this episode now on YouTube, iTunes, and Spotify, and be inspired to reach new heights in STEM! 

Thank you to our sponsors Fenero, a multi-award-winning company that specialises in the financial success for contractors, freelancers and solopreneurs 

For more updates on #GreatnessHasNoGender, follow HERO on LinkedIn, or reach out to [email protected] to learn about our STEM career opportunities Permanent STEM Job Opportunities, Contracting STEM Job Opportunities.

In this impactful episode, host Deirdre Finnerty, Director of HERO Recruitment sits down with three dynamic leaders from TE Connectivity—a global innovator in engineering solutions with a steadfast dedication to diversity and inclusion. Joining us are Marilyn Bane, Production Supervisor, Deirdre Hardiman, R&D Product Development Engineering Manager, and Colleen Markland, PMO Leader for EMEA. These remarkable women share the defining moments of their journeys, from boldly pursuing unexpected career paths to shaping their industries with unwavering passion and expertise. 

Together, they discuss how they’re challenging stereotypes, making waves in traditionally male-dominated fields, and creating lasting change at TE Connectivity. Beyond their individual successes, TE’s commitment to elevating women in STEM shines through. With groundbreaking initiatives like 100% female hires in their graduate engineering program, a 60-40 gender ratio in Galway, and mentorships through programs like Ignite, TE Connectivity is paving the way for the next generation of female leaders. 

This episode isn’t just a dialogue—it’s a call for all of us to envision a future where diverse voices lead the way in innovation. Hear directly from Marilyn, Deirdre, and Colleen on what it takes to thrive, transform challenges into stepping stones, and drive inclusivity in STEM. 

Thank you to our sponsors Fenero, a multi-award-winning company that specialises in the financial success for contractors, freelancers and solopreneurs. 

For more updates on #GreatnessHasNoGender, follow HERO on LinkedIn, reach out to [email protected] for inquiries, or explore job opportunities in STEM Permanent Job Opportunities, Contracting Job Opportunities.

Available now on YouTube, iTunes, and Spotify. #GreatnessHasNoGender 

Join us in this episode of #GreatnessHasNoGender, hosted by Deirdre Finnerty, Director at HERO Recruitment, as we meet two amazing leaders from Cook Medical: Fiona King, Senior Manager, Research and Development, and Annemarie Beglin, QA Director.  

In this episode, we explore how Fiona and Annemarie are making an impact, from advocating for gender diversity in engineering to empowering the next generation through mentorship and community outreach. With women holding 55% of management roles at Cook Medical, the company is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Initiatives like gender-neutral job descriptions, global hiring bias training, and programs such as "Explore Engineering" reflect Cook’s dedication to equity, diversity, and inclusion (ED&I). 

Through their stories, Fiona and Annemarie share their insights into leadership, overcoming setbacks, and creating opportunities for others are lessons in both courage and change-making. 

Thank you to our sponsors Fenero, a multi-award-winning company that specialises in the financial success for contractors, freelancers and solopreneurs. 

Tune in now to hear Fiona and Annemarie share their inspiring journeys on YouTube, iTunes, and Spotify. #GreatnessHasNoGender 

For more updates on #GreatnessHasNoGender, follow HERO on LinkedIn, reach out to [email protected] for inquiries, or explore our job opportunities in STEM, Permanent Jobs and Contracting Jobs.

Available now on YouTube, iTunes, and Spotify. #GreatnessHasNoGender 

Join us in this episode of High-Flyers in STEM #GreatnessHasNoGender hosted by Deirdre Finnerty, Director at HERO Recruitment, as we celebrate Vivienne McNulty and Honora Egan, Innovation Managers at Hollister Incorporated, who are driving change and inspiring the next generation in STEM! 

In this episode, Deirdre Finnerty sits down with two remarkable women leading innovation at Hollister Incorporated—a global medical device company that's committed to driving  equity at every level. 

We take a deep dive into the journeys of Vivienne and Honora—two powerhouse women whose paths in STEM have been marked by resilience, innovation, and an unshakeable passion for making a difference. They open up about the pivotal moments in their careers, navigating challenges in leadership, and the support systems that have fueled their success. 

Hollister’s dedication to ED&I shines through in their impressive stats, nearly 40% of their workforce at the Ballina, Mayo, Ireland site are female. Their employee-run Women’s Initiative Network (WIN) offers mentorship and support to empower women and allies alike, further demonstrating Hollister’s commitment to building a truly inclusive environment for all  

Tune in to hear invaluable insights from Vivienne and Honora on making strides in STEM, and discover how Hollister’s initiatives are championing gender equality across the industry. 

Thank you to our sponsors Fenero, a multi-award-winning company that specialises in the financial success for contractors, freelancers and solopreneurs. 

For more updates on #GreatnessHasNoGender, follow HERO on LinkedIn, reach out to [email protected] for inquiries, or explore our job opportunities in STEM: Permanent Careers, Contracting Careers.

Available now on YouTube, iTunes, and Spotify. #GreatnessHasNoGender 

Join us in this episode of High-Flyers in STEM #GreatnessHasNoGender hosted by Deirdre Finnerty, Director at HERO Recruitment, as we explore how Boston Scientific is reshaping the landscape for women in STEM! 

Featuring the incredible journeys of Aoife Carter, Senior Manufacturing Engineering Manager, and Claire O’Brien, Director of Regulatory Affairs, we dive into their two decades of experience and the impactful initiatives driving diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) at Boston Scientific in Ireland.

Discover how Aoife’s passion for engineering and Claire’s problem-solving mindset reflect a culture of support and mentorship that empowers individuals from all backgrounds. Learn about Boston Scientific’s innovative programs for disability inclusion, their commitment to encouraging young women in STEM through community outreach, and their focus on employee wellbeing.

Tune in for powerful insights that remind us all: success is rooted in curiosity, resilience, and seizing opportunities. 

For more information, connect with HERO on LinkedIn, reach out to us at [email protected] for any inquiries, or visit our website for the latest permanent and contracting jobs in STEM.

Thank you to our sponsors Fenero, a multi-award-winning company that specialises in the financial success for contractors, freelancers and solopreneurs. 

Available now on YouTube, iTunes, and Spotify. #GreatnessHasNoGender