Plugged Into Dublin: IE Sci-Tech Students Explore the Pulse of Europe's Tech Capital

This spring, students from the IE School of Science & Technology stepped inside the nerve centers of global innovation during an intensive immersion week in Dublin, Ireland—one of Europe’s foremost technology hubs. As part of the Global Immersion Week initiative, students from the Master in Business Analytics & Data Science (MBDS) and Master in Computer Science & Business Technology (MCSBT) engaged directly with professionals at some of the world’s most influential companies.

Over the course of five days, the group visited nine leading firms: Google, Microsoft, Meta, LinkedIn, Salesforce, Pfizer, Oracle, Pinterest, and Ryanair. Each stop offered unique insights into how data science, artificial intelligence, and cloud infrastructure are powering decision-making, operational efficiency, and product innovation across industries.

At Google’s European headquarters, conversations focused on the company’s approach to embedding AI across its services, and the continued growth of Google Cloud—now the second-largest revenue driver within Alphabet. Pfizer presented a different application of data science, demonstrating how analytics are accelerating pharmaceutical development and enhancing resilience in global health operations. Meanwhile, at Ryanair, students saw how data is used in aviation to optimize routing, reduce emissions, and streamline the customer experience.

“Dublin is often referred to as the 'Silicon Valley of Europe'—and for good reason,” said Raquel Cabero Quiles, Academic Director of the MBDS programme. “Our students don’t just hear about emerging technologies in the classroom—they witness their application in some of the world’s most complex and fast-moving environments. That kind of exposure is invaluable.”

The presence of IE alumni across several of these companies played a key role in shaping the experience. At Meta, Pfizer, and other firms, alumni hosted sessions, shared candid insights into navigating the shift from academic study to industry roles, and discussed how the demands of the tech workforce are evolving in real time.

Beyond the formal visits, students participated in curated networking events, including a welcome dinner and a networking cocktail, provided them with opportunities for informal conversation and peer connection in one of Europe’s most dynamic cities for tech careers.

Several key themes emerged across the week: the increasing importance of interconnected digital ecosystems over standalone products; the strategic value of cross-functional teams that blend technical and business expertise; and the shift toward continuous learning and agile career paths in technology-driven industries.

“The vibe in Dublin is electric,” master student and attendee Martin Robinson said. “We didn’t just learn how companies are using data—we met the people writing the algorithms, building the platforms, and making the calls.” 

The Dublin Immersion Week offered students a live case study in the strategic use of data and AI across sectors - underscoring Dublin’s role as not just a tech outpost, but a critical node in the infrastructure of the global digital economy.