Engineering & Manufacturing
Engineering & Manufacturing
Engineering and Manufacturing is a vital sector in Ireland, contributing significantly to the country's economy and employment. The sector is known for its diversity, innovation, and high standards, with a strong focus on advanced manufacturing, precision engineering, and high-value-added processes.
Economic Contribution:
The sector is a major contributor to Ireland’s GDP and exports. It encompasses a wide range of industries including pharmaceuticals, medical devices, electronics, aerospace, automotive, and food processing.
Innovation and Technology:
Ireland is home to several global technology and engineering firms.
There is a strong emphasis on research and development (R&D) and the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies such as automation, robotics, and artificial intelligence (AI).
The sector provides employment to a significant portion of the workforce.
Jobs range from entry-level positions to highly skilled technical roles.
Ireland has a robust education system supporting the sector, with numerous engineering and manufacturing courses offered by universities.
There is a strong focus on apprenticeships and continuous professional development (CPD) to ensure a skilled workforce.
Related Careers
Engineering Roles
Focus on designing, developing, and testing mechanical systems and devices.
Work in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing.
Deal with the design and development of electrical systems and components.
Employed in sectors like electronics, power generation, and telecommunications.
Involved in the production and use of chemicals and biochemicals.
Work mainly in pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, and food processing industries.
Design and develop medical devices and healthcare solutions.
Prominent in the medical devices and healthcare sector, which is significant in Ireland.
Manufacturing Roles
Oversee the production process, ensuring efficiency and quality.
Work in various manufacturing sectors including food, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods.
Ensure products meet required standards and regulations.
Essential in sectors like pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and electronics.
Focus on designing and optimizing production processes.
Employed in industries such as chemicals, food and beverage, and electronics.
Manage the flow of goods and materials from suppliers to customers.
Work across various sectors to ensure efficient and cost-effective operations.
Emerging Roles
Design and implement robotic systems for manufacturing automation.
Increasingly important with the rise of Industry 4.0.
Analyse manufacturing data to improve processes and product quality.
Vital for companies adopting data-driven manufacturing approaches.
Develop sustainable manufacturing processes and practices.
Focus on reducing environmental impact and enhancing resource efficiency.
Sector Support and Growth
Government Support: Various government initiatives and grants support the growth and development of the engineering and manufacturing sector.
Industry Bodies: Organizations such as Engineers Ireland and the Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR) provide resources, advocacy, and support for professionals in the sector.
Global Integration: Ireland’s strategic location and business-friendly environment attract multinational corporations, further integrating the sector into global supply chains.
Overall, the Engineering and Manufacturing sector in Ireland is dynamic and offers numerous career opportunities, driven by continuous innovation and a skilled workforce.
Advice for School Leavers
If you are considering a career in Engineering or Manufacturing you might consider some of the following tips:
- Study Engineering for your Leaving Cert. This will give you a good taste of what engineering is all about and whether is it the right course for you after school.
- Work hard at Maths. You will need good mathematical ability to do well in engineering. Some courses require Higher Level Leaving Cert Maths and most courses will have a significant maths component.
- Choose complimentary Leaving Cert Subjects. A lot of engineering and manufacturing roles fall into the field of science so it may be wise to study a science subject for your Leaving Cert. (Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science). If you are thinking of going into Civil or Structural Engineering, it would be a good idea to do Construction Studies for your Leaving Cert. Technology, and Design and Communication Graphics are also good choices that will set a good foundation for engineering students.
- Find work experience in engineering or manufacturing. Gaining work experience or work shadowing is a great way to get a feel for the area and to see first hand the different roles.
- Attend an event during Engineers’ Week. Every March there is a week dedicated to engineering. There are plenty of events and workshops held across the country. This week offers a great opportunity to discover more about the roles in engineering.
- Research engineering and manufacturing related courses at Further and Higher Education. Spend time reading college prospectuses and attend college open days to help you find the course that suits you best.
- Consider applying for an apprenticeship in the area.
Advice for Graduates
In an interview you want to show your prospective employer that you are the right candidate for the job. Here are some key traits required. Think of evidence of how you have displayed some of these skills and qualities.
- Team work is essential: Employers want to know that you can thrive in a team environment and work well with your colleagues.
- Attention to detail: Being able to work with accuracy and precision is vital for a career in engineering.
- Innovation: You need to show your prospective employer that you can solve problems and come up with new solutions. Employers want to see that you understand the need for innovation to solve real-life problems.
Consider applying for a graduate training programme. This is a highly structured programme that typically runs over two years. The focus is on training and development and some programmes lead to a professional or postgraduate qualification.
You also have the option of continuing your studies to postgraduate level. Students may choose this option to become expert in a specialisation or they may choose to further their studies to be in a better position to secure a more senior role.
Graduates may also opt to apply to be a Chartered Engineer with Engineers Ireland. By achieving the Chartered Engineer status, you will be in a better position for employment, achieve the badge of excellence for your profession and give yourself a more competitive edge through international recognition.
Advice for Adult Workers
If you are currently in employment and wish to enter into the Engineering and manufacturing sector you have several options available to you.
- Complete an Engineering or manufacturing related course in Further Education. Applications to Further Education can be made directly to your chosen college.
- Undertake a degree in a related field. You can apply as a mature student to CAO to compete for a place in Higher Education.
- Apprenticeship opportunities are also open to people from all educational and employment backgrounds. An apprenticeship will give you the opportunity to earn a wage during your training.
- If you already have a degree you may be interested in studying at postgraduate level in an Engineering or manufacturing related course.
- There are many Springboard courses which are relevant and mgiht be open to you.
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