Sorcha McAnespy, founder of FigTec Ltd in Tyrone, has been shortlisted as a finalist for the IMAGE PwC STEM Professional of the Year 2026.

FigTec developed Fig, a digital platform that provides covert support to people facing coercive control, a type of domestic abuse. The platform operates as an annual software licence supplied to statutory and voluntary organisations in Ireland and the UK.

McAnespy has over 20 years of experience in heavy engineering, manufacturing, data analytics, and technology entrepreneurship. She served as a Fermanagh and Omagh District Councillor from 2011 to 2019 and chaired the Policing and Community Safety Partnership.

The platform aids victims in accessing help when their devices or movements are monitored. Frontline services have shown interest in it.

McAnespy described the recognition as an honour and noted that coercive control represents a common yet hidden form of domestic abuse. She stressed her commitment to technology that assists those in such situations.

The awards ceremony takes place on May 15, 2026, at the RDS in Dublin.