We are excited to introduce Gairmeach Training Ltd. as a vital partner in the SUSTaiN project. Specialising in innovative digital solutions for Vocational Education and Training (VET) and Continuing Vocational Education and Training (CVET), Gairmeach is uniquely positioned to support the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into sustainable educational practices.
Background and Expertise
Founded in 2022, Gairmeach has rapidly gained recognition for its work in AI integration within education. The company’s name, derived from the Irish Gaelic word for vocational, reflects its core mission: to help workers, young learners, and career professionals develop the skills necessary for a digital and green future. Gairmeach’s founder, Derbhela Mullan, brings over 30 years of experience in organisational change and skills development, having worked across various sectors, including fashion, mental health, and, most recently, vocational education. This diverse background strengthens Gairmeach's ability to lead transformative projects within the education sector, particularly when it comes to implementing AI-driven solutions.
Gairmeach’s Role in the SUSTaiN Project
In the SUSTaiN project, Gairmeach is playing a key role in multiple work packages, contributing their expertise in digital pedagogy, content development, and AI integration. Here’s how they’re making an impact:
- WP2: Sustainable AI Case Studies & Starter Kit
Gairmeach, alongside The Food Hub, is co-leading this work package. They will support the development of a foundational overview of AI and machine learning, ensuring the content is tailored for VET educators and industry professionals. Gairmeach will also collaborate on the first in-person workshop, where the methodologies for the Sustainable AI Case Studies & Starter Kit will be developed with partners. This will lay the groundwork for a comprehensive set of educational resources that showcase AI’s role in sustainability across various sectors. - WP3: AI Training Program for VET
In this work package, Gairmeach will focus on optimising training materials for online access, ensuring fast download speeds, environmental impact reduction, and accessibility for all learners. Their digital design expertise will ensure that the training materials are easy to navigate and available to as many VET educators and students as possible. - WP4: AI for Sustainability Hackathons
Gairmeach will play a crucial role in developing the AI for Sustainability Hackathons Guide. With their extensive experience in organising and facilitating hackathons, they will help shape the methodology and ensure that these events are both engaging and educational for students, educators, and industry stakeholders alike. - WP5: Share and Sustain
Gairmeach will lead the design and development of the SUSTaiN website, ensuring that it is user-friendly, accessible, and intuitive. The website will serve as a hub for all project materials, with the goal of sustaining its impact for at least three years post-project. Gairmeach will also handle website maintenance, security updates, and hosting, ensuring that the platform remains active and accessible to all interested stakeholders.
Staff Skills and Expertise
Gairmeach’s team brings a wealth of expertise to the table, with key individuals contributing their unique skills:
- Derbhela Mullan – Founder and Change Management Consultant
Derbhela’s background in organisational change, skills development, and her extensive experience in leadership roles provides a solid foundation for Gairmeach’s work in vocational education and training. - Aine Hamill – Instructional Designer
Aine brings a strong academic background in law and digital learning design. With experience in developing AI-powered learning applications, she plays a critical role in integrating AI into educational content, enhancing learning experiences for VET students. - Greg Lobanoff – eLearning Developer
With a Master’s in Computer Science and extensive experience in developing eLearning platforms, Greg ensures that Gairmeach’s digital teaching tools are cutting-edge and optimised for both educators and students.
Why Gairmeach is Relevant for the SUSTaiN Project
Gairmeach’s expertise in AI, digital pedagogy, and vocational education makes them a perfect fit for the SUSTaiN project. Their focus on future skills and innovative teaching methods ensures that the project’s outcomes are not only practical but also forward-thinking, preparing students and educators for the digital and green transformations happening across industries.
Get to Know Gairmeach
Learn more about Gairmeach Training Ltd. and their commitment to transforming vocational education at Gairmeach’s Website.
As part of the project, Gairmeach is contributing significantly to ensuring that VET education not only meets the demands of the current job market but also prepares students to lead in a sustainable, AI-powered future.
Written by Kathryn O’Brien, EUEI



