Career Advice
Advice for school leavers
Comprehensive training courses for new entrants are available at Greencastle, Galway and Castletownbere. No previous educational or training qualifications are necessary and QQI courses are open to all. However, for the Commercial Fishing Certificate one must have passed the Leaving Certificate or National Vocational Certificate Level 1, or have relevant life or work experience.
There are progression possibilities and a chance of further qualifications. For example, anyone who completes a PLC course is eligible to receive the equivalent of 390 points in the Leaving Cert and through the Higher Education Links scheme, progress to complete ordinary and higher degrees.
Advice for graduates
Many of those involved in fishing and aquaculture have the entrepreneurial drive to develop and manage their own businesses, be it trawler, fish-farm processing business or retail unit.
As well as teaching the knowledge and practical skills needed to work in the fishing industry, BIM’s courses also include subjects such as information technology and management training, ensuring that these highly skilled individuals reach their full potential, realising their goals and ambitions, and skilfully managing a successful modern business.
Graduates should look for work in the Aquaculture and Marine Science areas as these will have the most employment opportunities.
Advice for career changers
Employment opportunities are available for early school leavers or those who do not wish to pursue third level education, as well as opportunities for older workers or those looking for a career change.
There are progression possibilities and a chance of further qualifications. For example, anyone who completes a QQI programme is eligible to receive the equivalent of 390 points in the Leaving Cert and through the Higher Education Links scheme, progress to complete ordinary and higher degrees..
Advice for those wishing to go back to work
Training courses are available for those who are new to the industry or those who are already established. Courses are updated to account for new skills and relevance and so are worth taking again to be up to date with the industry.
