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Honouring Paul Kelleher's outstanding contributions to engineering

13 Nov 2025
Photo: Provision

Paul Kelleher, Vice President of Engineering at Qualcomm Technologies Ireland Limited, has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Engineering by University College Cork.

A seasoned business leader with over 30 years’ experience in the electronics industry, Paul was instrumental in establishing Qualcomm’s Cork site in 2015. Since then, his vision and leadership have been instrumental in shaping the site’s success. 

Beyond his industry achievements, he actively supports academia as an Adjunct Professor at both UCC and the University of Limerick, fostering collaboration between education and innovation.

Paul has nurtured a deep and enduring partnership between Qualcomm Ireland and UCC. Many of UCC graduates are now employees at Qualcomm, with some in senior leadership roles; while Qualcomm’s philanthropic support has been transformative for the university.

He also plays an active role in Cork’s business community, serving as the Southern Chair of the American Chamber of Commerce Ireland and contributing as a member of the Cork Docklands Steering Group. 

Paul Kelleher commented:

"It was a great honour to accept the honorary degree from UCC on behalf of my family, friends, and Qualcomm. It is a day that we will always remember, especially as we were sharing it with the UCC staff and graduates.

UCC is a world class university and is a major part of what we believe and strive for in life, the ability to learn, educate and share the knowledge. Thank you UCC.”

This recognition reflects how Paul Kelleher's leadership has not only shaped Qualcomm Ireland but has also left an indelible mark on the university, its students, and the broader Cork business community. 

College of Science, Engineering and Food Science

Coláiste na hEolaíochta, na hInnealtóireachta agus na hEolaíochta Bia

Block E, Level 3, Food Science Building, UCC, Cork, T12 YN60.

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