Unlocking Innovation: An Alum Q&A with Mia Castro
In a world where continuous learning is key, microcredentials offer a powerful way to gain specialised skills quickly and effectively. Trinity Innovation & Enterprise’s Microcredential in Practical Frameworks for Innovation is designed for professionals eager to master the tools needed to drive change and solve complex problems.
We recently spoke with Maria 'Mia' Castro, a Workshop Facilitator and Trainer working with tech companies globally, and an inspiring alumna of our Microcredential. Mia shares her experience, highlighting how the course broadened her understanding of innovation and provided a unique learning environment.
Q: Mia, tell us a bit about your professional background and what led you to the Microcredential in Practical Frameworks for Innovation?
"I work as a Workshop Facilitator and Trainer, primarily with tech companies around the world. I was actively looking for courses that focused on innovation practices and skills when I discovered Trinity College Dublin’s Microcredential in Practical Frameworks for Innovation. I was already familiar with Design Thinking and Creative Problem Solving, but I wasn't so familiar with Systems Thinking. I thought this would be a fantastic opportunity to learn from talented tutors, connect with like-minded people, and, of course, study at Trinity. I certainly wasn't disappointed; it was a fantastic experience!"
Q: Did you have any initial reservations about taking on this Microcredential?
"Yes, I was definitely concerned about the requirements and suitability, particularly being a self-employed professional and an international student. However, the support and guidance that Trinity, and especially Shay Butler, provided was incredibly timely and always spot on. They made the process feel effortless, which was a huge relief."
Q: What aspects of the course did you enjoy the most, and what made this learning experience stand out for you?
"I really enjoyed making new friends and learning about how to apply these innovation frameworks in industries beyond just Technology. The blended learning approach was also a huge plus for me. I'm a curious person and I'm always taking courses, but I've grown a bit tired of purely recorded, asynchronous courses. This Microcredential offered just the right mix of in-person and remote lessons, which kept me engaged and made the learning experience truly effective."
Q: How has the Microcredential broadened your understanding of innovation, and how has that helped you in your work?
"It significantly broadened my understanding of the different approaches and tools used in innovation. More importantly, it taught me how to apply them effectively in various contexts and industries. This has directly impacted my work as a facilitator and
trainer, allowing me to bring more diverse and robust frameworks to the tech companies I work with globally."
Q: What was your biggest takeaway from the programme?
"The biggest takeaway was the expanded understanding of innovation tools, particularly gaining proficiency in Systems Thinking, which was new to me. But equally important was the practical application of these frameworks in diverse settings, and the invaluable connections made with fellow innovators."
Q: What would you say to others who are considering taking the Microcredential in Practical Frameworks for Innovation?
"If you're looking to quickly gain highly practical innovation skills and want an engaging learning experience that goes beyond just recorded lessons, this Microcredential is for you. It will broaden your perspective on how innovation works across industries and provide you with a tangible toolkit you can use immediately. The support from Trinity and the opportunity to connect with a diverse group of innovators makes it a truly unique and rewarding programme. Don't hesitate!"
Ready to unlock your innovative potential in just 7 weeks? Learn more about the Microcredential in Practical Frameworks for Innovation and secure your place today!