Carlow women take part in 2026 Women in STEM annual summit to highlight gender gap

A number of women from across Carlow took part in the 2026 Women in STEM Summit on International Women's Day. 

It was in an attempt to inspire a renewed focus on diversity and inclusion across STEM fields.

Representatives from MSD Carlow and members of the MSD Ireland Women’s Network took part alongside Eva Gallagher, Site Lead at MSD Carlow.

The annual summit brought leaders from industry, education, government, and research together to explore how diversity fuels digital transformation and strengthens Ireland’s STEM landscape.

Discussions centred on how closing the gender gap in science and technology can unlock new ideas, drive innovation, and support long-term economic growth across the regions.

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As part of MSD’s sponsorship of this year’s summit, the company invited Lisa McEvoy, Associate Vice President of Digital Manufacturing at MSD, formerly Ireland‑based and now working in the US, to take part in the discussion.

Originally from Co. Roscommon, Lisa’s work focuses on developing and scaling digital technologies across MSD’s global manufacturing network, giving her a unique perspective on how innovation and inclusion go hand in hand.

On the day, Lisa joined colleagues from MSD’s eight Irish locations across Carlow, Tipperary, Cork, Meath, Louth, and Dublin to discuss how inclusive workplace cultures can empower women at every stage of their careers, from early development and technical training to senior leadership and strategic influence.