Encouraging Engineering as a Career Path
STEPS Engineering Your Future Programme is an engineers Ireland initiative designed to promote engineering as a career choice for Transition Year students. Through a range of activities, students gain insight into the world of professional engineering.
Hands-On Engineering Experience with STEPS Engineering Your Future Programme
The programme includes interactive workshops, laboratory sessions, demonstrations, and tours. The event coincides with Engineers Week and is hosted by various third-level institutes across Ireland. At UL, the event is delivered through the School of Engineering and the Department of Electronic and Computer Engineering.
Expert Guidance and Practical Learning
Commenting on the week’s activities, Coordinator Dr. Alan O’Donovan from the School of Engineering said:
“We are delighted to once more host the STEPS Engineering Your Future Programme event. Engineers Ireland has created an excellent programme that allows Transition Year students to experience what it is to be an engineer, and we are happy to facilitate.
“This year, activities included soldering, programming, robotics, flight simulation, and CAD, reflective of the wide range of offerings here in UL. I would like to compliment all the students on their engagement throughout the week and thank the many staff who volunteered to help deliver this event.”
Student Perspectives on the Programme
Transition Year student Fátima Sánchez from Colaiste Muire in Ennis shared her thoughts on the programme:
“It’s really good because it gives you a broad overview of all the engineering disciplines. Before I came to UL, I knew I wanted to do engineering at third level but didn’t know which of the different pathways to choose. Civil engineering is my favourite.”
Explore Engineering Showcase Event
The weeklong programme of activities culminated with a trip to the Explore Engineering Showcase event on Thursday evening. Held in Shannon Airport, the annual event brought together over 60 engineering companies, organisations, and educational institutions to give students, teachers, and parents an insight into the various fields of engineering.
Through initiatives like the STEPS Engineering Your Future Programme, students gain valuable exposure to real-world engineering, helping them make informed career choices and inspiring the next generation of engineers.
