Ep 363: Rethinking Failure With WE Local Dublin Keynote Audrey McCormack

Audrey McCormack, opening keynote for WE Local Dublin and senior director, research & commercialisation facility lead at MSD Ireland, discusses how engineers can turn failure into a powerful career advantage in this episode. In conversation with host Sam East, Audrey reflects on her unconventional path from electrician to biotech leader and shares how the moments that didn’t go to plan shaped her resilience, confidence, and leadership style. Hear how to pursue STEM roles when you don’t meet every requirement, rebuild confidence after a failure, and create space for your team to take risks — even in high-stakes technical environments. Audrey will expand on these insights as the opening keynote at WE Local Dublin, taking place April 23-24, 2026. WE Local conferences bring together engineers and technologists for networking opportunities, professional development, and inspiring conversations like this one. Register at welocal.swe.org to join SWE at WE Local Dublin or an upcoming WE Local near you. — The Society of Women Engineers is a powerful, global force uniting nearly 45,000 members of all genders spanning 90+ countries. We are the world’s largest advocate and catalyst for change for women in engineering and technology. To join and access all the exclusive benefits to elevate your professional journey, visit membership.swe.org.