DCU Institute of Education
DCU Institute of Education

Guidance and Industry Network (GaIN)

The Guidance and Industry Network (GAIN) was established in 2022 by DCU in collaboration with the 30% Club, CWiT and supporting industry partners.  As providers of initial training and education in guidance, DCU recognised the challenges faced by practitioners in trying to access the most relevant and up-to-date labour market information. The mission of GaIN is to bridge gaps between guidance and industry to support meaningful, inclusive employment pathways for all. 

The network held its inaugural event in January 2023 and since then has developed a wide reach, engaging with industry partners that operate on local, national, and international levels. The initiative is inclusive, welcoming anyone involved in the field of guidance, from information officers and teachers to school management and guidance practitioners from across Ireland. This broad engagement ensures a diverse range of perspectives and experiences, fostering collaborative efforts to address the challenges experienced by guidance professionals and industry partners. 

The Guidance and Industry Network (GaIN) is delighted to share several exciting developments that highlight our growing impact and continued commitment to strengthening connections between guidance and industry.

Record-Breaking GaIN Events

Our two full-day GaIN events held in January were our best attended yet. We extend a sincere thank you to all our industry partners and guidance colleagues, for contributing to such engaging and impactful days.

To register for our 2026 events contact: GaIN@dcu.ie

Launch of the GaIN Webinar Series

This year marked the launch of our new GaIN Webinar Series, designed to enhance collaboration between guidance professionals and industry. Our first two webinars have already reached over 600 viewers in Ireland and internationally.

National Recognition for GaIN

GaIN has been recognised in the Department of Education and Youth’s Action 3.4 Report as part of the National Strategic Framework for Lifelong Guidance: Strategic Action Plan 2024–2030.
 This national acknowledgment highlights GaIN’s growing influence and underscores the importance of connecting guidance with real-world industry experience for learners across the education system.

Funding Secured for VR Career Exploration

We are proud to announce that GaIN has secured philanthropic funding to pilot Virtual Reality Career Exploration tools in post-primary schools, with a particular focus on DEIS and rural schools.

This initiative will provide students with immersive virtual career experiences and simulations, supporting equitable access to high-quality career exploration opportunities. The project builds on DCU’s research into VR as a powerful tool for democratising career insights and bridging the work-experience gap.

If you are interested in learning more about VR for guidance, please contact us at: GaIN@dcu.ie

Resources from recent events 

  • GaIN Dublin 2025 hosted by Accenture Slides and Company Profiles
  • GaIN Limerick 2025 hosted by Northern Trust: Slides and Company Profiles
  • Modern Apprenticeships webinar access recording here

Workplaces webinar access recording here

Social Media Links

Upcoming events

  • For more information or to join our mailing list, please contact GaIN@dcu.ie