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Managing modern port infrastructure requires balancing complex marine engineering, environmental compliance, and round-the-clock commercial shipping operations. Expanding berthing capacity while protecting delicate marine ecosystems presents constant technical challenges for engineering leaders. Overcoming these operational obstacles demands innovative capital dredging strategies, advanced acoustic monitoring, and deep historical knowledge of coastal dynamics. Port engineering teams must guarantee vessel safety while deploying cutting-edge marine equipment in busy fairways. Host Dusty Rhodes sits down with Eamon McElroy, Port Engineer at Dublin Port. With nearly two decades of experience overseeing marine infrastructure, dredging projects, and environmental conservation, Eamon shares invaluable practical insights into managing one of the busiest maritime hubs in Europe. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT Scope and scale of maritime trade through Dublin PortHistorical engineering behind the South and North Bull WallsCapital dredging protocols and managing marine environmental complianceOperational deployment of the Magnor backhoe dredgerPractical advice for civil engineers building impactful careers GUEST DETAILS Eamon McElroy is the Port Engineer at Dublin Port, where he has led marine infrastructure maintenance, environmental conservation programmes, and major capital dredging projects for nearly twenty years. He holds an honours degree in civil engineering from the University of Dundee and oversees critical environmental initiatives, including tern and black guillemot conservation plans in Dublin Bay. MORE INFORMATION Looking for ways to explore or advance a career in the field of engineering? Visit Engineers Ireland to learn more about the many programs and resources on offer. https://www.engineersireland.ie/   Engineers Ireland Amplified is produced by DustPod.io for Engineers Ireland. QUOTES I tell people to understand the size and scope of Dublin Port, go into any shop in Ireland, and left three different items that have been imported. Two of those items came through Dublin Port to give you the scale. - Eamon McElroy And what we say in Dublin Port is we guarantee at least one metre of water under the keel. - Eamon McElroy The key word for dredging is production. You don't stop a dredger; you just do not. - Eamon McElroy KEYWORDS  #MarineEngineering#DublinPort#CapitalDredgingOperations#World'sLargestBackhoeDredger#CivilEngineeringProblemSolving

Technical prowess no longer guarantees a successful career in modern engineering. While a strong degree builds the foundation, the ability to translate complex solutions into customer value defines the true leaders of the industry. This shift requires professionals to master interpersonal skills and strategic thinking to navigate global operations successfully. Shane Callanan, Vice President of Medical at Advanced Energy, joins the platform to share his transition from a technical contributor to a global leader. With three decades of experience in power conversion, Shane details how to maintain high standards across international teams and why trust serves as the bedrock of successful remote management. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT Why technical skills alone are no longer enough.Building a marketing-led engineering culture.Managing global engineering teams via trust.Mentorship as a tool for talent retention.The next generation of engineering skill sets. GUEST DETAILS Shane Callanan is Vice President of Medical at Advanced Energy. Operating from the company's base in Cork, Shane leads high-performing engineering teams across international jurisdictions, including Minnesota, Mexico, and newly established operations in the Philippines. He is a seasoned senior leader who balances complex global engineering operations with a deep passion for mentoring graduate engineers and interns, driving both technical excellence and talent retention across the industry. Connect with Shane: Website: https://www.advancedenergy.comSocial Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shane-callanan-49a45a15/ MORE INFORMATION Looking for ways to explore or advance a career in the field of engineering? Visit Engineers Ireland to learn more about the many programs and resources on offer. https://www.engineersireland.ie/   Engineers Ireland Amplified is produced by DustPod.io for Engineers Ireland. QUOTES Just being a strong engineer is not good enough anymore. - Shane Callanan If you want to go into growth, you have to actually move towards a marketing-led organisation. - Shane Callanan Hire people that you trust, and there's very few people in our organisation that need to be managed in a traditional way. - Shane Callanan KEYWORDS #EngineeringLeadershipCommunication#GlobalEngineeringTeams#EngineeringCareerProgression#EngineeringMentorshipFrameworks

Engineering culture remains trapped in outdated norms, risking the mental health and retention of top talent. Relying on diversity metrics alone fails to solve the underlying problem of workplace culture. True success requires moving beyond surface-level attraction to fostering genuine inclusion and psychological safety. This shift is not just an ethical imperative; it is essential for team performance, innovation, and industry wellbeing. Joining us to dissect how firms can build these inclusive cultures are ESB civil engineer Tymora Freeman-Stannett and OutEngineered representative Poggy Murray Whitham. They share practical insights on how to transition from empty policies to meaningful everyday changes that ensure every professional feels seen, heard, and valued. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT Why traditional lad culture alienates LGBTQ+ professionalsDistinguishing tokenistic diversity from genuine inclusionConnecting psychological safety to industry mental healthReal world impact of external political pressures on DEISimple everyday actions for effective allyship GUESTS DETAILS Tymora Freeman-Stannett Tymora Freeman-Stannett is a civil engineer at ESB, where she actively manages the construction of utility-scale solar farms powering Ireland's green transition. Throughout her career, Tymora has been out and proud, serving as an active advocate within ESB’s LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group. Outside of hard hats and site plans, she is the Chair of the Irish Games Association, championing safe, inclusive, and accessible community spaces. Connect with Tymora : linkedin.com/in/tymora-freeman-stannett Poggy Murray Whitham Poggy Murray Whitham is a prominent member and representative of OutEngineered, an organisation dedicated to connecting, supporting, and elevating LGBTQ+ professionals and allies across the engineering and tech sectors. Poggy's work centers on breaking down systemic industry barriers, driving corporate representation, and building active networks that ensure engineering offices and physical construction sites alike are welcoming environments for all. Connect with Poggy: linkedin.com/in/poggy-murray-whitham LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/munya-bakasa (Senior Engineer, PUNCH Consulting Engineers) MORE INFORMATION Looking for ways to explore or advance a career in the field of engineering? Visit Engineers Ireland to learn more about the many programs and resources on offer.  https://www.engineersireland.ie/    Engineers Journal Amplified is produced by DustPod.io for Engineers Ireland. QUOTES Diversity without inclusion just leads to tokenism. Inclusion breeds diversity. - Poggy Murray Whitham You feel like you've come into a truth as opposed to a facade. - Tymora Freeman-Stannett Inclusion is making sure that all of those people are heard, are seen, and genuinely have a voice within the organisation. - Poggy Murray Whitham Part of allyship is opening your mind to that. You can ask the questions, but understand someone might not be prepared to give you the answer. So you have to do the work yourself. - Tymora Freeman-Stannett KEYWORDS:  #LGBTQinEngineering#InclusiveEngineering#EngineeringCulture#Allyship#EngineeringWellbeing

Professional engineers often face the constraint of being pigeonholed into specific roles based on demographic factors, yet the most successful teams are those that dismantle these barriers.  When engineering is embraced as a truly gender-neutral career, it unlocks a powerful diversity of thought that drives innovation and superior project outcomes. Engineering problem solving requires a blend of scientific rigour and creative thinking to deliver impactful results. We explore how to break free from professional boxes, manage complex large-scale infrastructure projects, and incorporate social value into procurement. Joining us is Gemma McCarthy, Vice President of the Association of Consulting Engineers of Ireland and Regional Director at Mott MacDonald. Gemma shares her expertise on leading multidisciplinary teams and offers a fresh perspective on how inclusive, gender-neutral leadership paves the way for a more successful and dynamic engineering profession. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT Solving the Celtic Interconnector challengeEngineering as a creative disciplineManaging large infrastructure budgetsImplementing social value in procurementThe future generation of engineers GUEST DETAILS Gemma McCarthy is the Vice President of the Association of Consulting Engineers of Ireland and a Regional Director at Mott MacDonald. She combines high-level technical direction with strategic leadership in the Irish engineering sector. Gemma is a strong advocate for diverse representation, leveraging her experience to drive professional development and infrastructure solutions for society. She has spent 15 years with Mott MacDonald overseeing major regional operations. Connect with Gemma:Website: https://www.acei.ieSocial Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-mccarthy-5681a717/ MORE INFORMATION Looking for ways to explore or advance a career in the field of engineering? Visit Engineers Ireland to learn more about the many programs and resources on offer. https://www.engineersireland.ie/   Engineers Ireland Amplified is produced by DustPod.io for Engineers Ireland. QUOTES I used to rail against the, are you creative, are you scientific? Engineering is very much the crossover of the two. - Gemma McCarthy At the end of the day, we're problem solvers. - Gemma McCarthy We are only as good as the currency of our own skills at the moment. - Gemma McCarthy KEYWORDS #ProjectManagement #EngineeringTips #InfrastructureProjects #TechnicalLeadership #SystemDesign

Talented engineers often fear that moving abroad means sacrificing hard-earned professional momentum. This mindset overlooks the reality that an engineering qualification is a borderless passport for innovation and personal growth. In this episode of our Global Engineers mini-series, we explore how top international talent selects Ireland as their professional base, bringing fresh perspectives that drive the industry forward. We discuss how firms successfully integrate these new approaches, the cultural nuances of Irish engineering, and the actionable advice that will empower you to build a thriving career overseas. Our guests are Munya Bakasa, a South African senior structural engineer spearheading major consulting projects, and Krystyna Dimtchev, a Polish project manager and chair of the Women in Engineering Society. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT Choosing to base careers in IrelandChallenges of technical language barriersIrish culture of collaboration and trustManaging complex structural engineering projectsAdvice for engineers moving abroad GUESTS DETAILS Krystyna Dimtchev is an Associate Programme Manager at Arcadis and the current Chair of the Engineers Ireland Women in Engineering Society. Originally from Poland, she is an IPMA Certified Senior Project Manager with extensive experience in environmental engineering and building services.  She is a passionate advocate for diversity, inclusion, and mentoring the next generation of engineers.Connect with Krystyna :  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/krystyna-dimtchev (Associate Programme Manager, Arcadis & Chair of the Women in Engineering Society) Munya Bakasa is a Senior Engineer at PUNCH Consulting Engineers. Originally from South Africa, he is a key lead on major infrastructural developments. He brings structural and civil engineering expertise to the Irish market and is a strong advocate for active travel infrastructure. Connect with Munya:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/munya-bakasa (Senior Engineer, PUNCH Consulting Engineers) MORE INFORMATION Looking for ways to explore or advance a career in the field of engineering? Visit Engineers Ireland to learn more about the many programs and resources on offer. https://www.engineersireland.ie/   Engineers Journal Amplified is produced by DustPod.io for Engineers Ireland. QUOTES One of the biggest differences I have experienced in Ireland is the emphasis on the collaboration of openness and trust. - Krystyna Dimtchev You strike a better work-life balance in the local environment, as opposed to back home. - Munya Bakasa I've learned from them, it's not if you have the book, you have the equations, you have the calculations, but just to understand makes you a true engineer. - Krystyna Dimtchev Your perspective, both professionally and personally, is broadened beyond what you expect. - Munya Bakasa KEYWORDS: #GlobalEngineering #IrishCareer #EngineeringAbroad #CareerGrowth #InternationalEngineer

Ireland's energy transition demands a new calibre of engineering leadership and talent to secure its critical infrastructure for the future. The challenge is not just technical; it is about cultivating a culture of safety, innovation, and diverse perspectives across the sector. This episode explores the pivotal role of engineers in making high-stakes decisions, transforming safety from a rule to a core value, and addressing the persistent gender imbalance in the industry. Learn how a varied background and holistic thinking are key to solving the complex problems of tomorrow, from power generation to the energy demands of artificial intelligence. Joining us is Majella Henchion, Technical Capability Manager at ESB, a Chartered Engineer and Fellow of Engineers Ireland. Majella shares her three decades of experience, transitioning from managing iconic sites like Turlough Hill to leading the strategic recruitment of the next generation of engineers. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT Overcoming professional imposter syndrome.Managing high-risk power plant operations.Making safety a deeply human value.Why engineering needs more women.Developing future holistic engineering talent. GUEST DETAILS Majella Henchion is the Technical Capability Manager at ESB, responsible for ensuring the utility possesses the personnel required to drive the energy transition. A Chartered Engineer and Fellow of Engineers Ireland, her career spans three decades in pivotal leadership roles. Her key achievements include managing the Turlough Hill pumped storage station and leading critical safety assurance programmes. Connect with Majella: Website: https://www.esb.ie Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/majellahenchion/?originalSubdomain=ie MORE INFORMATION Looking for ways to explore or advance a career in the field of engineering? Visit Engineers Ireland to learn more about the many programs and resources on offer. https://www.engineersireland.ie/   Engineers Ireland Amplified is produced by DustPod.io for Engineers Ireland. QUOTES Imposter syndrome comes back every time you take on a new challenge, and what I began to realise was I liked that challenge. – Majella Henchion If you can put that trust in people, they will repay you double fold. – Majella Henchion We need our engineers to be more holistic in their thinking. – Majella Henchion KEYWORDS #ElectricalEngineering #BehaviouralSafety #EnergyTransition #GenderDiversity #HolisticProblemSolving

Many talented engineers hesitate to move abroad, fearing they will lose career momentum and disconnect from the vibrant Irish engineering community. However, an Irish engineering degree is in fact a global passport, opening doors to innovation on an international scale while maintaining strong Irish roots. This special mini-series explores how Irish engineers successfully navigate international markets, secure funding, overcome the fear of failure, and leverage their qualifications to build thriving careers overseas. They also discuss how the Irish engineering community supports them abroad. Joining the conversation is Joseph Mooney, a Forbes 30 under 30 honoree at the forefront of US energy research, and Sinéad Conneely, a Structural Director and Engineers Ireland Chartered Engineer of the Year finalist. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT Choosing to leave Ireland and whereIrish engineering qualifications are valued globallyWhy Irish engineers are natural risk-takersFunding differences between US and IrelandPractical advice for moving abroad earlier GUESTS DETAILS Joseph Mooney is the Co-Founder of WattAir and a Research Engineer at the Georgia Institute of Technology, recently named on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list for Energy.  Connect with Joseph: linkedin.com/in/josephpmooney Sinéad Conneely is a Director and Structural Engineer at Simple Works in London, a finalist for the Engineers Ireland Chartered Engineer of the Year, and a leader in the UK construction industry. Connect with Sinéad: linkedin.com/in/sinéad-conneely-9b847139 MORE INFORMATION Looking for ways to explore or advance a career in the field of engineering? Visit Engineers Ireland to learn more about the many programs and resources on offer. https://www.engineersireland.ie/    Engineers Journal AMPLIFIED is produced by DustPod.io for Engineers Ireland.

Mega projects often struggle under their own sheer weight, leading to massive budget overruns, stakeholder conflict, and unmanaged complexity. The challenge lies in managing change ruthlessly while maintaining safety and quality across vast, long-term undertakings. This episode explores the disciplined mindset required to deliver major infrastructure on time and on budget, focusing on "right-to-left" planning, risk ownership, and the crucial role of collaboration.  We also look at how digital tools like BIM and AI are revolutionising project delivery and safety in the construction sector. Our guest is Carl Devlin, Capital Works Director at MTR Corporation. His three decades of experience include senior leadership on iconic projects such as London Heathrow Terminal 5 and upgrading 40 per cent of the London Underground network THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT Driving career with big goalsRight-to-left planning and requirementsMinimising change on mega projectsLeading rail expansion in Hong KongUsing AI for construction safety GUEST DETAILS Carl Devlin is the Capital Works Director at MTR Corporation. He oversees new railway projects and major upgrades for Hong Kong's sophisticated transport network.  His core expertise includes navigating the immense complexity of mega-projects, balancing technical excellence with strategic stakeholder demands, and spearheading digital transformation in construction. Connect with Carl Devlin: Website: https://www.mtr.com.hk Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carl-devlin MORE INFORMATION Looking for ways to explore or advance a career in the field of engineering? Visit Engineers Ireland to learn more about the many programs and resources on offer.  https://www.engineersireland.ie/    Engineers Journal AMPLIFIED is produced by DustPod.io for Engineers Ireland. QUOTES When you're managing change, you have to look holistically at the whole system, not just at the components that you're actually accountable for. - Carl Devlin Change is the thing that drives mega projects off course, because once you've committed a supply chain... and you change one of the requirements, it can have a huge knock on impact on the project.  - Carl Devlin I keep saying to my team, if you were spending the money out of your wallet, would you do this?   - Carl Devlin KEYWORDS #MegaProjects #ProjectManagement #EngineeringLeadership #DigitalConstruction #InfrastructureInvestment

Engineers spend too much time fixing broken data instead of focusing on high-level design. This inefficiency, known as workflow friction, is a major enemy of modern construction projects. This episode explores how intelligent automation and verified software can eliminate manual rework and enhance global collaboration. We discuss the crucial challenge of trust between engineers and fabricators, the necessity of specialised AI solutions, and the innovations of Trim BIM. Our guest is David Sanderson, a former site engineer who now leads Product Strategy for Trimble’s structural tools. He offers a unique 40-year perspective, having witnessed the digital transformation of engineering since 1982 THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT Accidentally invented structural software in 1982Lack of trust creates workflow frictionSpecialised AI best for tedious tasksCommercial value prioritises software featuresContractual deliverable is still 2D drawing GUEST DETAILS David Sanderson is the Senior Product Manager for Structural Design Products at Trimble. His expertise is rooted in structural design, leading product strategy for major tools like Tekla Structural Designer, and championing the use of verified, quality-assured software in the industry. Connect with David Sanderson, Senior Product Manager for Structural Design Products at Trimble: PUBLIC CONTACT DETAILS: https://www.trimble.com/en/products/tekla SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-sanderson-49926852/ MORE INFORMATION Looking for ways to explore or advance a career in the field of engineering? Visit Engineers Ireland to learn more about the many programs and resources on offer. https://www.engineersireland.ie/   Engineers Journal AMPLIFIED is produced by DustPod.io for Engineers Ireland. QUOTES The contractual deliverable is still a 2d drawing, believe it or not. - David SandersonThe biggest issue that I can see now is that within a project, you've got many stakeholders. - David SandersonPeople have got to start accepting other people's models on trust, in my view. - David Sanderson KEYWORDS  #StructuralEngineering #IntelligentAutomation #WorkflowFriction #TrimBIM #PortalFrameDesign

Building and maintaining Ireland's vital coastal infrastructure requires facing the relentless challenge of climate change and rising sea levels. Protecting the country's six dedicated fishery harbour centres and their multi-million euro capital programme demands innovative engineering and strict public spending compliance. This episode explores the high-stakes engineering required to adapt harbours for tomorrow, deploying modern tools like GIS and drones for efficiency, and the unexpected permitting hurdles government departments must navigate. You will also hear about the fascinating complexities of Noel’s private sector career, including the challenging Dunboy Castle restoration and the mammoth Opera Lane basement construction in Cork City. We are delighted to welcome Chief Engineer at the Marine Engineering Division of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Noel Clancy, who shares his journey from Cork construction sites to leading national coastal upgrades. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT Career journey from private to public.Restoring Dunboy Castle from ruins.Constructing deep basements in Cork City.Managing Ireland's fishery harbour centres.Designing coastal infrastructure for climate change. GUEST DETAILS Noel Clancy is the Chief Engineer in Ireland's Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, leading the Marine Engineering Division. A civil engineering graduate and Fellow of Engineers Ireland, he is renowned for modernising public sector projects with GIS mapping and drone inspections. He manages the operation, maintenance, and capital upgrades for state fishery harbours while promoting lifelong learning and mentoring young engineers Connect with Noel: PUBLIC CONTACT DETAILS: https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-agriculture-food-and-the-marine/biographies/noel-clancy/ SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noel-clancy-41989738 MORE INFORMATION Looking for ways to explore or advance a career in the field of engineering? Visit Engineers Ireland to learn more about the many programs and resources on offer. https://www.engineersireland.ie/   Engineers Journal AMPLIFIED is produced by DustPod.io for Engineers Ireland. QUOTES So the better the information that we have at the front end, the better chance we have of not getting into dispute with the contractor.  - Noel Clancy  "It's very important to have a relationship, and it's very important to have no surprises, you know, so to have everything properly planned. - Noel Clancy  One key thing is adaption, and essentially that's changing what you have to deal with, what you know is going to happen. - Noel Clancy  KEYWORDS #MarineEngineering #CoastalAdaptation #CivilEngineering #PublicSectorProjects #FisheryHarbours

Achieving Ireland's ambitious decarbonisation goals and meeting climate action targets requires massive investment and innovative engineering solutions across the energy sector. This is compounded by the increasing digitisation of our infrastructure and the need to deliver reliable power to a growing economy. This conversation explores the strategic response to the climate and energy crisis, examining the future makeup of the Irish power system, the explosive growth of solar power, and how data and artificial intelligence are revolutionising asset management. We also look at the evolving role of engineers, the importance of complementary commercial skills, and how to advance your career in the sector. Joining the discussion is Siobhán McHugh, Director and the Energy and Utilities Consulting Lead at PwC Ireland, and the current Chairperson of the Energy, Environment and Climate Action Division at Engineers Ireland. Her experience spans regulation, grid operation, and strategic consulting. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT Career progression diverse energy rolesAI data transforming asset managementSolar generation exceeded cost projectionsInfrastructure delivery policy advocacyHuman skills complement technical expertise GUEST DETAILS Siobhán McHugh is a Director and the Energy and Utilities Consulting Lead at PwC Ireland, where she advises clients in the electricity, water, and gas sectors on large-scale digital and energy transformation projects. Her expertise draws heavily on her deep operational background from EirGrid and a regulatory background from the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER), giving her a rare whole-system view of the industry. She also serves as the current Chairperson of the Energy, Environment and Climate Action Division at Engineers Ireland. Connect with Siobhán: PUBLIC CONTACT DETAILSwww.pwc.ie/industries/energy-and-renewables/team.htmlSocial Media:www.linkedin.com/in/siobhanmchugh/?originalSubdomain=ie MORE INFORMATION Looking for ways to explore or advance a career in the field of engineering? Visit Engineers Ireland to learn more about the many programs and resources on offer. https://www.engineersireland.ie/   Engineers Journal AMPLIFIED is produced by DustPod.io for Engineers Ireland. QUOTES So I'd say a lot of the challenges probably have a hidden positive in them, in that it's an advancement in technology, but it's just about figuring it out. - Siobhán McHughYou're always working with people, and so that is the piece of experience. I think you need to help build your younger colleagues. - Siobhán McHughIf I think of solar energy when we would have been modelling it, it was completely different cost basis, solar was quite expensive. That cost has come down now. - Siobhán McHughKEYWORDS #EnergyTransition #IrishGrid #EngineeringCareers #DataAndAI #ClimateAction

Engineering faces housing crisis, climate change crisis and biodiversity crisis simultaneously requiring everyone onboard with diversity of thought for new solutions. Danny Pio Murphy shares how sustainable swords strategy engaged 800 school children and hundreds of adults through covid restrictions, why plumburroughs greenfield site allowed testing protected cycle infrastructure before design manuals existed, how DBFI Consulting Engineers achieved gold accreditation investors for diversity with 85% inclusivity score, and why half LGBT engineers remain closeted through fear despite marriage equality referendum changing Irish society fundamentally. The chartered transportation engineer, associate director at DBFL Consulting Engineers and former chair of engineers Ireland inclusion diversity society discusses mentoring graduates through four year development programmes, intelligent mobility hubs coming online Cork Docklands, and why people skills matter as much as technical expertise when moving from engineer to leadership. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT Kids want safer routes school cycling tracks greeningGreenfield sites test new infrastructure before manuals existHalf LGBT engineers closeted through fear workplace safetyGold diversity accreditation 85% inclusivity score achievedIntelligent mobility hubs drone technology electric charging future GUEST DETAILS Danny Pio Murphy is chartered transportation engineer and associate director at DBFL Consulting Engineers, leading sustainable Swords strategy transforming town into 100,000 person city and plumburroughs strategic development zone creating 23,000 residents with 25,000 jobs.  A former LGBT activist for nine years giving wellbeing lectures across Ireland and UK, he chaired Engineers Ireland inclusion diversity society and helped DBFL achieve gold accreditation investors for diversity held by only 28 organisations nationally.  His achievements include pioneering protected cycle infrastructure before Irish design manuals existed, increasing company female representation from low base to quarter over five years, and mentoring graduates through four year chartership development programmes whilst supporting diversity networks across 30 nationalities. Connect with Danny: PUBLIC CONTACT DETAILS Website:  www.dbfl.ieSocial Media: www.linkedin.com/in/dannypiomurphy/?originalSubdomain=ie  MORE INFORMATION Looking for ways to explore or advance a career in the field of engineering?  Visit Engineers Ireland to learn more about the many programs and resources on offer. https://www.engineersireland.ie/    Engineers Journal AMPLIFIED is produced by DustPod.io for Engineers Ireland. QUOTES "We're facing a great challenge here in engineering, because we're facing a housing crisis, a climate change crisis, biodiversity crisis. We need everyone on board to help us with that, and we need different points of views and a diversity of thought for new solutions. - Danny Pio MurphyThe kids were saying that they want safer routes to school, cycle tracks. They wanted more public transport and actually more greening around our town as well. They were very environmentally conscious. They wanted more seating areas and greening. It was really good to hear that. They're always so positive. - Danny Pio MurphyThere's a lot of things that we as engineers can see on paper and we're following standards, but the local knowledge is indispensable at times, and you can include that in your designs. - Danny Pio MurphyWe got gold accreditation in investors for diversity by Irish Centre for diversity. It's only held by 28 organisations in the country. - Danny Pio Murphy"My first job interview, I had LGBT on my CV. The person doing the interview didn't read my CV, and when they got there, they stopped for 10 seconds in silence, and they were very uncomfortable seeing that I was an LGBT activist and I didn't get the job. - Danny Pio Murphy KEYWORDS #SustainableTransport #DiversityInEngineering #LGBTEngineers #IntelligentMobility #CycleInfrastructure

Construction sector faces urgent decarbonisation challenge whilst Ireland maintains only 11% women in engineering unchanged since 2011 despite ambitious housing and infrastructure targets requiring diverse workforce expansion. Susan McGarry, Managing Director for Ireland at Ecocem pioneering low carbon concrete company, explains journey from Greenpeace member receiving Rainbow Warrior dolphin pictures to becoming youngest MD at 30 years old, how ACT advanced cement technology reduces clinker from 85% to under 30% achieving 600 kilos CO2 savings per tonne, why Irish regulatory system lacks assessment route for new low carbon materials despite ambitious National Development Plan targets, and how cancer diagnosis at 34 prompted reflection on policy passion over operational leadership. With expertise spanning technical concrete troubleshooting through European policy advocacy and member of Engineers Ireland Women in Engineering Group, Susan shares practical advice on visibility without egotism, why nice girls who don't ask get nothing, and how senior management diversity influences maternity leave, IVF cover and bereavement policies attracting retaining women throughout career pipeline.  THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT Low carbon cement ACT reduces clinker eighty five percentIrish regulatory system lacks assessment route new materialsWomen engineering eleven percent unchanged since two thousand elevenVisibility senior management influences hiring maternity IVF policiesCancer diagnosis thirty four prompted policy passion reflectionGUEST DETAILS Susan McGarry is Managing Director for Ireland at Ecocem, pioneering company developing low carbon concrete, expertly handling concrete procurement rules and public affairs guiding construction industry toward ambitious climate targets whilst scaling sustainable building solutions across Ireland. Passionate advocate for diversity as prominent woman in structures and construction sector historically low on female engineers, she uses platform driving inclusion highlighting systemic barriers women face from cultural challenges to logistical issues like accessible female bathrooms on construction sites.  Member of Engineers Ireland Women in Engineering Group, she joined Ecocem as environmental services intern in 2011 becoming youngest MD at 30 years old in 2020, now serving as Director of Public Affairs and Sustainability for Ecocem Global after cancer diagnosis prompted career reflection focusing on policy passion over operational leadership spanning European officials and global partnerships. Connect with Susan McGarry: Website: https://www.ecocemglobal.com/en-ie/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-mcgarry-73582542/?originalSubdomain=ieEcocem GlobalMORE INFORMATION Looking for ways to explore or advance a career in the field of engineering? Visit Engineers Ireland to learn more about the many programs and resources on offer. https://www.engineersireland.ie/    Engineers Journal AMPLIFIED is produced by DustPod.io for Engineers Ireland. QUOTES There's still not enough women to see it on mass as a career choice. I think visually, it still looks quite male dominated, and that is off putting. My personal kind of goal would have always been to like help increase the visibility at senior management level for women in engineering, women in construction.  - Susan McGarryThe state is the biggest consumer of concrete in this country. We do have procurement rules now where 30% clinker substitution is required. That's not super ambitious but we've gone from nothing to something.  - Susan McGarryI had a decision to be a generalist or specialist at about 26. The Chairman of Ecocem said I did this course in UCD in industrial engineering in 1965, it turned engineers into CEOs. You should have a look at that.  - Susan McGarryYou get nothing if you don't ask, and if you don't have confidence, you kind of fake it. By being an open person to opportunities and being a helpful person that you'll take on workload.  - Susan McGarryWhen I graduated as an engineer in 2011, 11% of the engineering population was made up of women. In 2025 it's still only 11%. It has not changed. That's a very small percentage. When you want a network, you do need a network. You need somebody that you can pick up a phone to that's kind of like minded. Women in Engineering Group created that network.KEYWORDS LowCarbonCement #WomenInEngineering #SustainableConstruction #PolicyAdvocacy #CareerProgression

Successfully transitioning from university to a professional engineering career is a critical moment for any graduate, and the application process requires strategic preparation beyond just academic competence. Many students struggle to understand what employers truly seek in a new engineer and how to showcase their potential effectively. This episode unlocks the secrets to a standout graduate application, sharing direct insights on core soft skills like communication and teamwork, the role of mentorship, and the career growth trajectory within leading firms. Learn about the value of different-sized companies, from large-scale multi-office execution to a hands-on, personal approach, and the importance of professional development and diversity initiatives. Host Dusty Rhodes is joined by two exceptional industry leaders: Michelle O'Hagan, Group Graduate Recruitment Manager at PM Group, and Bill Bates, Director at DBFL. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT Why graduate programs are essentialBig vs small company advantagesSoft skills employers demand nowSuccessful career progression examplesHow to make your application stand out GUEST DETAILS Michelle O’Hagan is the Group Graduate Recruitment Manager at PM Group, a leading global project management and engineering company known for delivering complex capital projects worldwide. She manages the full graduate recruitment lifecycle across PM Group’s international offices, ensuring the company attracts top emerging talent. Michelle's extensive experience, including prior roles at Deloitte UK and Citi Bank, makes her an expert in understanding what drives success in early engineering careers. Bill Bates is a Director at DBFL Consulting Engineers, one of Ireland's leading civil, structural, and transportation consultancies. Bill is responsible for overseeing the Civil Engineering team and has extensive experience in the design and delivery of major infrastructure and development projects across the country. As a Director, Bill is deeply involved in DBFL's Graduate Development Programme and the career progression of their staff, making him a key resource for understanding the pathways to Chartered Engineer status and professional success within the Irish engineering sector. Connect with AMPLIFIED Website: engineersireland.ieSearch podcast player: "AMPLIFIED" or "Engineers Ireland"Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and wherever you get podcasts MORE INFORMATION Looking for ways to explore or advance a career in the field of engineering? Visit Engineers Ireland to learn more about the many programs and resources on offer. https://www.engineersireland.ie/    Engineers Journal AMPLIFIED is produced by DustPod.io for Engineers Ireland. QUOTES Confidence, talking about themselves, talking about their other aspects, their engineering career is only at the start, so they have very little to talk about in that. But I want to know what they've done to date. Tell me about themselves. - Bill Bates The actual programme itself is a two year programme, but it runs in parallel with your job. So you're permanent from day one, you don't have to re-interview for a role on completion of the programme, which a lot of graduate programmes in our industry does. - Michelle O'Hagan  Be confident in your own ability, but be able to show humility and be able to listen to all others perspectives. - Bill Bates Communication going into project management, being a strong and effective communicator is essential. Being clear, concise and well structured  - Ena O'Driscoll KEYWORDS #EngineeringGraduates #GraduateProgramme #CareerDevelopment #SoftSkills #StandoutCV

Leaving Certificate students have an exciting opportunity to explore the diverse realities of an engineering career and discover practical strategies for success as they fill out their upcoming CAO forms. Ena O'Driscoll, Mechanical Engineering student at MTU Cork and Student Ambassador at PM Group, alongside Sean Ryan, Automation Engineering student at SETU and Student Engineer at Jabil, share their university experiences with host Dusty Rhodes. Early STEM encouragement, fostered through school programs and family ties, significantly influences career choices.  The discussion highlights the importance of paid internships for developing real-world problem-solving skills and building an invaluable CV. Finally, it offers practical advice for creating standout applications by emphasizing leadership roles, volunteering, and project work, while also stressing the need to balance academic demands with societal involvement through networking and mentorship via groups like the Engineers Ireland Young Engineers Society.  THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT Engineering career choice STEM encouragementPaid internships practical experience benefitsCV building leadership & volunteering standoutTime management balancing studies & activitiesCAO strategy Level 7 & Level 8 options GUEST DETAILS Ena O'Driscoll is a Mechanical Engineering Student at Munster Technological University (MTU) Cork. Ena is an excellent example of maximising university studies by actively engaging with industry. She gained valuable professional experience through an internship and placement with PM Group, a leading international project delivery firm. Following her successful placement, Ena has continued her association with the company and the wider engineering community by serving as a Student Ambassador at PM Group, demonstrating a strong commitment to promoting engineering and bridging the gap between academia and professional life. Sean Ryan is an Automation Engineering Student at South East Technological University (SETU) Waterford. Sean is currently applying his technical expertise as a Student Engineer at Jabil, a global manufacturing services company. He possesses a strong academic background complemented by valuable practical experience, including previous work as a controls engineer at Integer. Sean is highly engaged within his university community, having served as a peer-to-peer mentor and senior mentor to support first-year engineering students. Sean is also Chairperson of the Young engineer society south east. Hailing from a farming background, Sean brings a unique perspective to problem-solving and engineering challenges. Outside of his studies and work, Sean is an active rugby player for both his college team and a local club.   Connect with AMPLIFIED Website: engineersireland.ieSearch podcast player: "AMPLIFIED" or "Engineers Ireland"Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and wherever you get podcasts MORE INFORMATION Looking for ways to explore or advance a career in the field of engineering? Visit Engineers Ireland to learn more about the many programs and resources on offer. https://www.engineersireland.ie/   Engineers Journal AMPLIFIED is produced by DustPod.io for Engineers Ireland. QUOTES My secondary school was actually really good in terms of promoting STEM. Every couple of weeks we'd have different people come in and talk about different areas - Ena O'Driscoll I'm on currently working as a controls and automation engineer student for Jabil healthcare, which is ideal because it's only two minutes walk from my college and I'm able to go in there part time and the hours are flexible which is amazing  - Sean Ryan We were given real work to work on from day one.  It started with helping other engineers, carried out a study. We were able to find that quadrant that was the problem and implement that change.- Sean Ryan I've always enjoyed Maths, Physics, anything problem solving wise. I've always wanted to be an engineer since probably around 14. I interviewed one of my dad's best friends who's a civil engineer. I got into the mechanical side because of my godfather.  - Ena O'Driscoll KEYWORDS Engineering studies, STEM promotion, student engineers, automation engineering, mechanical engineering, industry experience, internships