In a significant advancement for Ireland's aerospace sector, the University of Limerick's student-led rocketry team, ULAS HiPR, has partnered with Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR) to design and manufacture the first 3D printed liquid rocket engine in the Republic of Ireland. This collaboration underscores the innovative spirit of students at UL, as they work on creating the Láin of Celtchar, a high-performance 2 kN liquid rocket engine. The engine employs a water-cooled, IPA/nitrous oxide bi-propellant system and is being produced at IMR's Advanced Manufacturing Lab in Mullingar. Following its completion, the engine will undergo precision machining and assembly at the university, marking a pivotal step for Irish engineering. As part of this initiative, the ULAS HiPR team has achieved a major milestone by being officially accepted into the UK-based Race2Space 2026 International Propulsion competition. This event is notable for being one of the leading international aerospace engineering challenges focused on students. ULAS HiPR's acceptance into the competition is a testament to their technical capabilities and the growing student-led space community in Ireland. The team, established in 2022, comprises over 100 members from diverse disciplines, including aeronautical, mechanical, software, and design engineering backgrounds, all dedicated to the design, manufacturing, and launching of rockets. The partnership highlights a critical collaboration between students and industry, reflecting the commitment of both ULAS HiPR and IMR to strengthen Ireland's advanced manufacturing ecosystem. Mark Hartnett, senior technologist at IMR, emphasized the importance of supporting ambitious student projects, which can serve as vital platforms for developing cutting-edge technologies. This shift not only showcases student innovation but also reinforces Ireland's potential to contribute significantly to the space propulsion sector. Additionally, the launch of one of Ireland’s first European Space Agency Phi-Labs at IMR in Mullingar demonstrates a broader commitment to expanding the country's role in the rapidly growing space economy. This facility serves as a national platform for the development of space technology, positioning Ireland as a competitive player in the European and global landscape of aerospace advancements.