Name: Conor Reid

County: Wicklow

I completed the Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agriculture – Mechanisation at Salesian Agricultural College, Pallaskenry.

I enjoyed the fact there were lots of hands on practicals. We spent at least 50% of the time in the workshops or operating machinery on the college farm. I also liked the computer work especially the CAD. The teaching staff and technicians were very helpful, friendly and knowledgeable. I got to meet new people from all over the country.

In my final year project I fabricated a 4 foot tine grab. It is something that will be useful on our home farm. With guidance from college staff I was able to fabricate this project on my own.

I want to keep studying. I hope to complete the Higher Certificate in Engineering in Agricultural Mechanisation at TUS / Pallaskenry and hopefully then the Level 7 Bachelor of Ag Eng at TUS / Pallaskenry.

The advice I would give is to stick with it. You do not need to have a background in mechanisation or machinery. All you need is interest. The college staff will start you off with the basics and show you everything.

Teagasc