IBM SkillsBuild
Fully-fundedPower your career in tech with in-demand skills, courses, and credentials – for free.
Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet is proud to partner with SkillsBuild, an innovative online and easy-to-navigate open learning platform developed and supported by IBM. Get the tools you need to support your career advancement journey, while earning credentials and getting guidance from technology experts. All at no cost.
Free Tech Training: IBM SkillsBuild Overview
IBM SkillsBuild provides those looking to upskill or cross-skill with 1800+ free online, self-paced courses in technology and professional skills, as well as project-based learning, credentials* and coaching. Technical learning areas include artificial intelligence, customer service, cybersecurity, data analytics, information technology, IT project management and web development.
With IBM SkillsBuild you’ll also gain critical workplace skills, such as leadership skills, communication skills, problem solving skills, and writing skills, that are aligned to in-demand jobs. Plus, you can earn digital credentials to show employers what you’ve achieved! All this can take place within three to six months of enrolment, readying people for in-demand IT and non-IT roles across many industries.
Learners accessing SkillsBuild through Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet will be granted access to MyInnerGenius, an assessment tool that looks at what you can do, not just what you have done. It is designed to help you find careers in tech that fit your natural skills, abilities and personality. Regardless of your education or background, these assessments will help identify a role where you have the best chance to be successful now and in the future.
In addition, we can curate content from multiple providers on the SkillsBuild platform to make it easy for learners to access the topics that will be most beneficial for their learning development in a range of technology and professional discipline areas.
Scroll down to the bottom of the page to learn more about the full IBM SkillsBuild platform and to register to start your learning journey.
*Credentials by IBM recognised through Credly, in cooperation with Red Hat, Linux, Fortinet, Udemy, CorpAcademy, Adobe, IPMA, Open University
Gain in-demand technology skills and earn digital credentials
What previous learners have said
Eligibility for IBM SkillsBuild
To register through Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet for IBM SkillsBuild you must be currently residing in the Republic of Ireland. This platform is available to both employed and unemployed
Digital Badges with IBM SkillsBuild
Earn digital badges from IBM and other professional organisations – at no cost. Add these badges to your professional networking profile to showcase your skills and boost your career prospects.
How to apply for the full IBM SkillsBuild platform
Step 1: Click on the “Apply Now” button.
Step 2: Complete the student registration form.
Step 3: Upon completion, click on your enrollment link.
Step 4: On the IBM portal, select your preferred login method to access the learning material.
Please note: Do not join the platform in advance of receiving your enrollment link as you will not be able to access the full SkillsBuild version that we will make available to you.
Gain in-demand technology skills and earn digital credentials
Frequently Asked Questions
The questions our team are asked most often about this programme. If your question is not answered here, make an enquiry and we will come back to you.
IBM SkillsBuild is designed for people who want to develop new technology and professional skills, whether they are starting out, changing career or upskilling in their current role. It supports adult learners across different experience levels and includes learning aligned with both technology careers and broader workplace skills.
Yes. IBM SkillsBuild provides free online learning in technology and professional skills, with no course fee. Learners can access self-paced training, practical learning resources and eligible digital credentials at no cost.
No. IBM SkillsBuild includes introductory learning suitable for people who are new to technology as well as more advanced options for those looking to build existing skills. You can explore different areas first and then progress into the subjects or career pathways most relevant to you.
Learning is available across areas including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data, cloud computing, information technology, web development and IT project management. You can also develop professional skills such as communication, leadership, problem solving, critical thinking and collaboration.
Yes. Many IBM SkillsBuild learning activities lead to digital credentials that verify the skills or knowledge you have developed. Eligible credentials can be claimed through Credly and shared on platforms such as LinkedIn, as well as on your CV or professional portfolio.
There is no single course duration because IBM SkillsBuild is a learning platform containing many individual courses and pathways. Learning is online and self-paced, so you can choose shorter introductory courses or build a longer learning journey around the skills and career areas most relevant to you.
Yes. The learning is online, on-demand and self-paced, allowing you to study around work and other commitments. You can start at any time and choose courses according to the time you have available and the skills you want to develop.
To register for IBM SkillsBuild through Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet, you must currently reside in the Republic of Ireland. Access is available to both employed and unemployed learners.
Apply through the Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet IBM SkillsBuild page and complete the registration form. You will then receive an enrolment link to access the learning platform. Do not create your account through IBM in advance, as this may prevent you from accessing the full version made available through Technology Ireland ICT Skillnet.
