Early Careers
“Getting an internship often involves an interview or multiple interview stages.”
Claire Farrugia, Deputy Editor, gradireland Page 02 www.yourcareer.ie
“A central challenge for the engineering profession is the participation of women.”
Damien Owens, Director General, Engineers Ireland Page 04
Supercharge your career with limitless opportunities through an electrical apprenticeship
Tips for success at your internship interview
Combine hands-on experience with college learning to gain the essential skills and launch your career as an electrical specialist.
Mentorship sits at the core of supporting apprentices as they grow and develop within the workplace. Industry experts highlight how a ‘buddy’ or partner can help young people develop as they dovetail on-the-job training with college-based learning.
HR specialist Aoife Goulding also emphasises the importance of apprenticeships being seen by young people as a stepping stone to long-term careers within the electrical subcontracting niche of construction.
Apprentice roadmap
STS Group, a leader in electrical, instrumentation and commissioning services, actively supports candidates through electrical and instrumentation apprenticeships and more. Aoife explains how the company empowers aspiring professionals every step of the way.
To join one of its apprenticeship programmes, young people need to present their Leaving Certificate with a 05 or above in maths and a CV. From there, it is a mix of on-the-job and off-the-job training, working on-site with a mentor and theory taught in a college setting.
“We offer two separate four-year programmes with great career prospects once qualified, but there’s so much more beyond the apprenticeship,” Aoife says. “The
opportunities are endless. We’ve built a roadmap to help apprentices explore multiple growth paths, and we’ll provide the resources and skills they need to reach their full potential and follow their desired direction.”
Unlocking diverse career paths
There are endless paths for growth at STS Group. Some apprentices stay on as electricians, while others upskill to become supervisors, foremen, or project managers. Many pursue careers in design, quantity surveying or health and safety.
“It’s a dynamic learning experience, with mentorship woven into every step,” says Goulding, who oversees apprentice recruitment and onboarding.
Aoife Goulding HR Specialist, Specialist Technical Services (STS Group)
Glackin
Getting an internship often involves an interview or multiple interview stages. Here’s what to expect and how to stand out.
You may have one or multiple interviews. HR team members and your potential managers are likely to be present. It isn’t uncommon for interviewers to take notes throughout. This helps them remember your answers, so don’t let it worry you. Most interviews have a structured format set by the interviewer, and they typically give you a chance to ask questions at the end.
Common interview questions
Interviewers are likely to have a list of questions, which they ask every candidate. They might then add follow-up questions based on your response. You may be asked to give more detail or clarify a response. Interviewers do this to ensure that you are providing the best and most relevant information. Questions usually include:
• Why you are interested in the industry, field, employer or role
• Questions about your competencies
• Technical questions
• Hypothetical questions such as: ’What would you do in this scenario?’
Asking at least one question in an interview shows your interest.
Questions to ask the interviewee
Asking at least one question in an interview shows your interest. Some good questions to ask the interviewer include:
• What do you like about working with the company?
• What have past interns gone on to do career-wise?
• How is the company engaging with an issue affecting the industry?
Tips for interview success
• Research the employer beforehand and learn about the industry and role.
• If your interview is in person, plan your journey and allow for extra time in case of unexpected delays.
• Try on your interview outfit in advance so that you have time to make any necessary repairs or buy anything you’ve forgotten.
WRITTEN BY Mark Nicholls
• If your interview is online, make sure that the device you plan on using is plugged in and functioning properly. Also, ensure you have a suitable background.
• Never talk about your interview on social media.
• Give full answers to the questions you’re asked, but don’t ramble.
• Be punctual.
Claire Farrugia Deputy Editor, gradireland
Opportunities in the energy sector increase to meet ambitious renewable energy targets
Opportunities in the energy sector increase to meet Ireland’s ambitious renewable energy targets. Employees of a leading energy company discuss their professional journeys, the role of mentorship and the power of company culture.
The dynamic in the energy sector workforce is changing rapidly. Once a male-dominated industry, it is becoming more inclusive. The need for diverse perspectives is fundamental to drive innovation and tackle environmental challenges.
Career support and recognition in energy
Employing over 1,100 people across Ireland, Energia Group has solidified its position as a leader in the Irish energy market. According to Graduate Engineer Grace O’Connell, it is a fantastic place to work and develop.
“They are a really social company, and I can go to anybody at Energia to ask questions, and they will be happy to help. Everyone encourages me to progress and pursue extra courses and training in order to widen my knowledge,” says O’Connell. “I’ve had a number of wonderful role models throughout my career. One of my professional mentors was very inspiring, knowledgeable and always happy to give me advice. She went on to win the ‘Women in STEM Award in Energy,’ showing aspiring female engineers what they can achieve.”
Finding your niche in energy
Rebecca Draper, Solar Project Engineer, discusses how the company helped her to find her niche. “It’s okay not to know exactly what you want to do straight away. My father was involved in renewable energy, so I always knew I wanted to be an engineer but didn’t know which area I would ultimately work in,” she recalls. “I had the opportunity to complete rotations in different roles across the Group, which gave me experience in different areas and helped me to determine which job roles would be the best fit for me.”
“A good company culture adapts to its employees; there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Having a culture which understands its workforce and engages with them directly is extremely important,” says David Terceño Quintana, ESG and Corporate Communications Graduate. “Sustainability runs through everything we do; this year, we were delighted to get recertified to the Business Working Responsibly Mark and win ESG Best Performer of the Year (over 1,000 employees) at the prestigious Green Awards.
A good company culture adapts to its employees; there is no one-size-fits-all approach.
O’Connell agrees, urging young people considering a career in STEM to ‘try everything’ and not fear mistakes, noting that failure is often a stepping stone to success. “When I was at school, I was directed towards careers more ‘suitable for females,’ but despite the opinion of many, I stuck to my guns and decided to prove everyone wrong and pursued a career path in engineering, which I discovered a deep passion for.”
The power of company culture
Sponsored by Energia Group
As one of Ireland’s leading energy companies, Energia Group has built a strong reputation not just for providing electricity, gas and renewable energy solutions but also for fostering an exceptional company culture.
Leading the change
The company is committed to promoting education in the areas of energy and sustainability. It engages with schools and young people through various outreach initiatives across Ireland to inspire future talent. “I think it’s important for companies to go into schools and discuss the opportunities available because there are so many,” says O’Connell.
“The world must undergo an unprecedented transformation in a short amount of time if we are to reduce the effects of climate change. The energy sector has a leading role to play in this change, which makes it interesting to work in. There are many ways to play a key part in this transition,” says Terceño Quintana. “My role in sustainability is the perfect fit for me, but there are many other opportunities available across this sector, as everyone must play a part in our decarbonisation journey.”
It takes a wide range of roles to drive innovation across the energy sector, from engineers and scientists developing cutting-edge technologies to data analysts, policymakers and IT specialists — and they are all crucial.
Grace O’Connell Graduate Engineer, Energia Group
Rebecca Draper Solar Project Engineer, Energia Group
David Terceño Quintana ESG & Corporate Communications Graduate, Energia Group
Energia Group is powering the energy transition as it recently opened its sixteenth onshore windfarm, Drumlins Wind Park. Image provided by Energia Group.
Mentorship and supportive culture can inspire the next generation of engineers
Inspired by family, mentorship and a passion for problem-solving, Tristan Walsh, Graduate Engineer at Irish Distillers, shares insights into his journey and how a supportive company culture fosters innovation.
What sparked your interest in an engineering career?
Tristan Walsh: My father is a building contractor, and growing up, I realised I didn’t want to be confined to a desk. I had a keen interest in maths and sciences, particularly chemistry and physics, which led me towards engineering. The combination of theory and practical fieldwork in engineering appealed to me.
Who are your role models within the company and externally — and why?
I admire individuals with a strong work ethic who have worked hard to get to their positions. I have developed a great respect for leaders at Irish Distillers, particularly Distillers Katherine Condon and Barrett Stapleton. Their expertise, dedication and leadership qualities are attributes I hope to emulate in my own career.
How do you think engineering professionals can be better role models for younger generations?
I believe engineers need to simplify the way they explain their work, making it more accessible. Focusing on the tangible impact of our work would better engage and inspire younger generations. The profession thrives on continuous improvement and innovation, and we need to highlight this to encourage future engineers.
How did mentorship impact your career?
Irish Distillers fosters a culture of mentorship, which has
Fbeen one of the most beneficial aspects of working here. My mentors help me set goals, provide valuable feedback and build my confidence.
Having a mentor who is supportive, available and enthusiastic about my progress has made the early stages of my career much smoother. I am eager to learn and develop in the engineering field, and having guidance from industry experts has been invaluable.
What are some of the most important qualities of a mentor? Apart from deep expertise, I believe the most important qualities of a mentor are openness, approachability and a willingness to invest time. Honest feedback is crucial for personal growth and learning.
How does a supportive company culture encourage early-career professionals?
A supportive culture allows early-career professionals to contribute fresh ideas and innovation. It makes you feel that your input is valued, motivating you to work harder and add more value to the company.
What are the benefits of cross-discipline collaboration? Collaboration across disciplines is essential in engineering. I find that working with peers from other areas promotes innovation and leads to more successful outcomes.
Breaking engineering entry barriers to encourage women to seize opportunities
A central challenge for the engineering profession is the participation of women. According to the Higher Education Authority, just 23% of engineering graduates in Ireland were female last year.
emale engineers represent just 12% of the profession; many who graduate from engineering courses then choose alternative careers. The number of those participating in third-level engineering courses must be increased if we are to approach equal representation within our profession. However, other obstacles to entry to the profession must also be addressed.
Women less likely to pursue engineering
According to a recent study, carried out by Ipsos B&A on behalf of Engineers Ireland, 39% of women say they do not view engineering as a suitable career, compared to just 29% of men. Similarly, over a third of
women respondents said they would not consider the profession if starting a career or pursuing a career change. The reasons for this discrepancy in how men and women view careers in engineering are complex and multifaceted. Such issues were examined at our recent Engineers Ireland STEM Opportunities’ Leaders Forum, held in Dublin and supported by global healthcare technology leader Medtronic. It brought together leaders from across the public sector, education and industry to consider issues in STEM education, plus related sectors of the economy.
Societal expectations and need for women role models Research was presented,
demonstrating the different expectations for attainment our society tends to place on boys and girls in school mathematics. Similarly, it was highlighted that fewer female role models within the profession can also act as a barrier, as it reduces opportunities for girls and young women to see people like them as leaders within the profession.
These are issues that can and must be addressed. We have a vital responsibility to address imbalances within STEM professions and ensure that all sections of society feel equally comfortable taking up an engineering career. For years, women have had to overcome several societal and structural obstacles in the workplace.
Encourage women in engineering for sector benefit Engineering is a wonderful and varied career with plentiful opportunities. A wide range of engineering professionals remain on the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment’s Critical Skills Occupations List while figures published by SOLAS, the State jobs agency, show that 13% of all professional vacancies in 2022 were for engineering professionals. We can and must forge a path that encourages more women into our industry. A stronger, more vibrant and more diverse engineering sector benefits us all.
Damien Owens Director General, Engineers Ireland
Tristan Walsh Graduate Engineer, Irish Distillers
Irish Distillers, part of the global Pernod Ricard family, is renowned for producing some of the world’s leading Irish whiskeys, including Jameson, Redbreast, Midleton Very Rare, The Spot Range and Powers. The company offers a variety of early career opportunities for graduates and young professionals through
Sponsored by Irish Distillers