Digital former employees will reunite on Friday week (September 27 ) at the Ardilaun Hotel for a relaxed evening of BBQ, music, and conversation, starting at 6:30 PM. Limited tickets are still available for €35 and can only be purchased online through DigitalBBQ.eventbrite.ie It’s been 53 years since Digital Equipment Corporation first opened its manufacturing and office facility in Galway in 1971. At its peak, this initiative provided jobs for over 2,000 people and played a pivotal role in establishing Galway, and Ireland as a whole, as a key destination for multinational technology companies.
When the closure of Digital in 1993 was announced, it was seen by many as a devastating blow to Galway’s economy and a setback to the IDA’s strategy of attracting top technology companies. However, the opposite proved true. Many former employees went on to create their own businesses, while others found new opportunities across various industries or emigrated. Some of these businesses remain in Galway today, and wherever ex-Digital employees went, they took with them a strong work ethic and valuable skills that contributed significantly to their new workplaces.
It is often overlooked that Digital retained a significant presence in Galway through its software division, which later became part of Compaq, HP, and now HPE. This legacy continues, with several former Digital employees, known as “ex-Decies,” still working at HPE, keeping Galway’s high-tech profile alive.
Digital also fostered lasting friendships among its employees. A strong network of ex-Decies continues to thrive, with a regular meet-up taking place on the first Thursday of every month at the Salthill Hotel, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. This informal gathering, started by Kay Tighe and Liam Ferrie, has remained popular for over a decade. In addition to the regular attendees, many people drop in while visiting Galway, between meetings, or for social occasions. The upcoming reunion promises to bring former Digital employees together again from all over the world.
The 50th Reunion in 2022 was a resounding success, drawing 300 attendees from across the globe, including Bruce Ryan, the first European Financial Controller, who flew in from Boston to join the celebrations. The following day, a plaque was unveiled in the Circle of Life Park, Salthill, a special peaceful place that Digital funded back in 1984. Bruce will be joining us once again for the upcoming BBQ.
To rekindle memories, check out www.digitalgalway.com for videos and photos from previous reunions, including highlights from the famous “Tops of the Town.”
For more information or assistance, please contact Kathleen at [email protected].
