Combilift, a manufacturer specialising in multi-directional forklifts, has welcomed school students to its headquarters in Monaghan, Ireland.

At the event, which was organised to celebrate Engineers Week and promote STEM education, Combilift announced that it will host the Regional VEX Robotics Championships later this year.

The company says the winners of that competition will earn the chance to compete at the upcoming World Championships.

During the event, St. Macartan's VEX robotics team, which won the 2025 the Northwest Regional competition, presented their award-winning robot to over 250 students.

“I am the computer science teacher and in 15 years of teaching, this is probably the best thing I've ever been involved in,” says Brendan McAvera of St. Macartan's College.

“It really shows the inspiration you can get back from your students when you give them a project to do, they put their heart and soul into it, and they get their rewards since they've won three awards this year,” adds McAvera.

Beyond the Robotics Team’s presentation, students were able to experience interactive demonstrations, gain insight into the real-world applications of STEM, and better understand the vital role robotics plays in modern industries.

"By engaging with these cutting-edge technologies, students can develop skills specific to robotics, hydraulics, and programming, as well as other vital skills such as teamwork, strategy, and problem-solving,” says Martin McVicar, managing director Combilift.

“These abilities are essential for students’ curricula and are transferable to their future careers in STEM, including potential apprenticeships at Combilift or paths in engineering."