Engineers Journal AMPLIFIED

Brendan Kearns is a former chartered engineer at eircom who shares remarkable stories from our connected world in his new book Evolution of Telecommunications. From Bell's accidental discovery of the telephone while trying to improve telegraph systems to Ireland's transformation from 50% manual exchanges in 1979 to today's fiber networks, Brendan reveals the engineering breakthroughs that built modern communications. His comprehensive guide traces the path from Morse code to AI and quantum computing, sharing tales of underwater cable failures that led to heat equation breakthroughs, why an undertaker invented automatic switching, and the cybersecurity challenges facing today's networks. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUTHow the telephone was accidentally inventedWhy Ireland's telephone infrastructure was decades behind in 1979The engineering challenges of laying the first transatlantic cablesHow automatic telephone switches were invented by an undertakerWhy successful engineering leadership requires small collaborative teamsThe cybersecurity threats facing modern telecom networksConnect with Brendan:Book: "Evolution of Telecommunications" available on Amazon.iehttps://www.amazon.ie/EVOLUTION-TELECOMMUNICATIONS-Brendan-Michael-Kearns/dp/1068201509MORE INFORMATIONLooking 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.QUOTESWe engineers, we're very inquisitive people. We do like to break things from time to time. That's necessary, but then you have to fix them afterwards. - Brendan KearnsSometimes practice can come before theory. You can't wait for the theory to be written first. You gotta do things to make things happen. - Brendan KearnsThe telephone was invented by Bell in 1876, but he wasn't trying to invent the phone - he was trying to improve the telegraph. - Brendan KearnsEngineering is the art of giving something flesh, in my opinion. - Brendan KearnsI always like to work on small teams, no more than four or five people, where everybody is completely engaged and where everybody is honest with what they know and don't know. - Brendan KearnsKEYWORDS#telecommunications, #engineering, #innovation, #cybersecurity, #career-transition  

In this episode of Amplified, Dusty Rhodes is joined by Eamon Daly, Director at Egis Engineering Ireland, to explore the realities of delivering Ireland’s most vital infrastructure. From motorways and tunnels to Luas extensions and the future of MetroLink, Eamon shares stories from over 27 years in engineering. He explains the challenges of balancing deadlines, budgets, sustainability, and resources — while also highlighting the career opportunities for the next generation of engineers. Packed with insights on leadership, mentorship, and the future of transport in Ireland, this conversation offers a rare inside look at how critical national projects are brought to life. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT How major road and transport projects in Ireland are planned, designed, and delivered Lessons from major infrastructure builds — Dublin Tunnel, Jack Lynch Tunnel, Luas, and MetroLink. Overcoming geotechnical challenges: peat, karst, and precision bridge engineering. Balancing deadlines, budgets, and sustainability on mega-projects. Resource challenges — why Ireland needs more engineers and international expertise. The value of mentorship, varied experience, and networking for career growth. Future-proofing skills: opportunities in transport, rail, and sustainable infrastructure.GUEST DETAILS Eamon Daly is a Director at Egis in Ireland and Barry Transportation - now Egis. Eamon has over 25 years' experience, specialising in Transportation and Traffic Engineering. Notable projects he has completed work on include Luas Finglas, N22 Baile Bhuirne to Macroom and N4 Collooney to Castlebaldwin.MORE INFORMATIONLooking 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.QUOTESSustainability needs to come into all projects – it’s business as usual now - Eamon Daly.Good mentorship is vital. You’re going to make mistakes, but there’s always a solution and it’s never as bad as you think - Eamon DalyIreland has great projects and mega projects ahead – it’s a fantastic time to be a young engineer - Eamon Daly.Networking outside your organisation is always useful – we’re constantly talking to consultants, contractors and clients to see what’s coming next - Eamon Daly.I’ve always stayed involved in design because it’s something I really enjoy – even while leading and managing teams - Eamon DalyKEYWORDS#Engineering #Infrastructure #Ireland #Transport #Sustainability #CivilEngineering #MetroLink #Luas #Motorways #Tunnels #Egis #EngineersIreland #CareerInEngineering #FutureOfTransport

In this inspiring episode of Amplified: The Engineers Journal Podcast, aerospace engineer and entrepreneur Stephen Ringler, Managing Director of Space Store, shares his journey from working on NASA’s Juno mission to launching a space-themed retail and education company in the UK. Host Dusty Rhodes delves into Stephen's early fascination with space, his experiences navigating large-scale engineering projects, and the challenges of budget cuts in the space sector.Stephen also explores the power of inclusive space education, revealing how Space Store aims to make space accessible and exciting for everyone — from schoolchildren to corporate teams. Packed with insights on testing, risk management, active listening, and keeping passion alive in a demanding industry, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in engineering, innovation, and the future of space exploration.THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUTSpace belongs to everyone - not just scientists and engineers.Testing is critical: break it until it stops breaking.Communication and collaboration are essential in large-scale engineering projects.Active listening leads to better engineering outcomes and more relevant solutions.Drive and passion need support - from self-talk to strong mentors.How space innovation directly benefits life on Earth - from MRIs to climate tech. GUEST DETAILS Stephen has over 20 years of experience working in the Space sector as a Pointing Precision Engineer, Programmatic Analyst, and Business Developer. With his training that began at UCLA and his vast experience and network in the Space community, his aim with Spacetime Development is to provide top-notch business development support and engineering services to high-tech companies. Stephen enjoys exploring castles and playing board games, jazz piano and drums. MORE INFORMATIONLooking 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"Break it until it stops breaking, and then we can send it to space.""The space industry belongs to everyone.""We bring space to Earth - that’s what we do.""Sometimes we solve problems that people don't have.""If you're ultimately trying to take human beings and put them somewhere else, everything that is part of a human being needs to be thought about taking them somewhere else.""If I lost either engineering or teaching, I think I would die a little on the inside."

In this episode of Amplified, we wrap up our special mini-series on sustainability with an episode discussing the importance of mindset shifts in achieving Ireland's 2030 renewable energy targets. Henry Boucher and Terry Wilkinson, experts in renewable and civil engineering respectively, emphasise the impact of small changes in sustainability. Terry highlights cost-effective measures like wildlife ladders for amphibians, while Henry focuses on early integration of biodiversity considerations in projects. Both stress the importance of community engagement, effective communication, and practical steps like reducing material use and measuring embodied carbon. They advocate continuous improvement and collaboration to achieve broader sustainability goals.THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUTThe need to move beyond technical fixes to sustainability mindset shiftsHow biodiversity can be enhanced through subtle project design changesThe need to move beyond technical fixes to sustainability mindset shiftsDesigning infrastructure to cope with extreme weatherChallenges in balancing safety, cost, and environmental benefitGUEST DETAILS Henry Boucher is a Civil, Environmental and Renewable Engineering Manager at ESB.https://www.linkedin.com/in/henry-bouchier-271b6b18/#Terry Wilkinson is a Design & Application Engineer at ACO Water Management. As a Civil Engineer for ACO, Terry has focused his career predominantly on the highways industry, both in his 11 years at ACO and prior to this working as a client, consultant and contractor for Local Authority highways. He is a member of the CIHT and is working towards his chartered engineer status with CPD at the heart of this journey. His professional interests are focused on wildlife mitigation solutions and highway surface water management; however, he also has a broader understanding of applications for other areas such as rail, housing, commercial and distribution developments. Biodiversity and wildlife are things he is also passionate about personally and he is actively involved in initiatives such as local toad patrols.https://www.linkedin.com/in/terry-wilkinson-beng-mciht/MORE INFORMATIONLooking 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.QUOTESWe never get to net zero unless we have a wide variety of renewable energy sources, and then we have some backup— Henry Boucher, Civil, Environmental and Renewable Engineering Manager at ESBOften with sustainability, people have these massive identity, massive cost ideas... but often some of the smaller measures can really have positive impacts— Terry Wilkinson, Design & Application Engineer at ACO Water ManagementIt's a mindset shift that has technical solutions. We just have to think a little bit differently how we do things— Henry Boucher, Civil, Environmental and Renewable Engineering Manager at ESBEverything in nature and wildlife is linked. If you have a decline of a certain species, it will have a knock-on effect to something else— Terry Wilkinson, Design & Application Engineer at ACO Water ManagementDo one thing right, and then you can go back and improve something else. Just improve one thing is probably the way to do it— Henry Boucher, Civil, Environmental and Renewable Engineering Manager at ESBKEYWORDS#SustainableEngineering #RenewableEnergy #BiodiversityInfrastructure #ClimateInnovation

In this second episode of our Amplified sustainability series, host Dusty Rhodes dives deep into the future of sustainable transport in Ireland.With the 2030 emissions deadline fast approaching, the focus turns to engineering, political will, and social change needed to revolutionise Ireland’s transportation system. Joining Dusty are Professor Brian Caulfield, a leading transportation researcher from Trinity College Dublin, and Robert Sizer, Director of Engineering for UK at IESA, renowned for his expertise in major infrastructure projects like rail stations and tunnels. Together, they unravel the real challenges behind meeting climate targets, from public acceptance to the transformative power of multimodal transport networks. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUTThe urgent 2030 transport emissions targets and what it will really take to meet themWhy Ireland’s main transportation challenges are political and social, not technicalEngineering solutions for decarbonising public transport: electric, hydrogen, and biofuelsReal-world examples: Reimagining city spaces in Dublin, Madrid, London, and BarcelonaThe impact of major projects (metros, tunnels, and light rail) on urban lifeGUEST DETAILSProf. Brian Caulfield, Professor in Transportation at Trinity College DublinBrian Caulfield is a Professor in Transportation at Trinity College Dublin. Since joining the Department Prof Caulfield has embarked on an intensive research program addressing global issues such as the environmental impacts of transport and methods to reduce the carbon impacts of transport and in 2017 he addressed the Irish Citizens Assembly on this topic. He recently provided advice to the Climate Change Advisory Council on pathways to decreasing transport emissions by 2030. Prof Caulfield is currently a member of the Steering Group for the review and update of the GDA Transport Strategy with the National Transport Authority.Prof Caulfield has published over 200 papers in these areas and is also a member of a number of National and International research groups and is the former Chair of the Irish Transportation Research Network.Rob Sizer, Director of Engineering for UK at AYESARob is a Chartered Civil Engineer who is an experienced project manager in delivering large complex multi-disciplinary design projects. Rob is particularly experienced in managing and developing relationships with key clients and stakeholder. Such as London Underground, Overground and Thames Water and Crossrail. Rob has a strong technical background with over 15 years working across the civil engineering industry, and is highly experienced in the design delivery, process, standards and requirements for rail infrastructure, such as stations and tunnels.MORE INFORMATIONLooking 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 real transportation challenge isn’t EVs—it’s humans. Social and political will, not engineering, are the hardest parts.” - Prof Brian Caulfield"If engineers had the money, we’d be building metros and light rails right now. The solutions exist—the bottleneck is delivering them.”  - Prof Brian Caulfield "Sustainability isn’t just about the infrastructure; it’s about minimizing disruption for people and reusing space for public life.” -  Robert Sizer"Give more space back to people, and you change how cities work and how we live in them."- Prof Brian Caulfield"We need sustainability to be a contract KPI, not just a talking point. That’s how you get real change." - Robert Sizer

In this episode of Amplified, host Dusty Rhodes kicks off a special mini-series on sustainability with a powerful conversation about engineering’s critical role in achieving Ireland’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).He’s joined by Niamh Breslin of IDA Ireland and Richard Manton from the University of Galway. Together, they explore the reality of decarbonisation, grid resilience, and the transformative influence engineers have—from infrastructure to leadership. With insights into green economy investment, education, and collaboration across sectors, this episode is both a wake-up call and a blueprint for a more sustainable Ireland. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUTThe central role engineers play in achieving Ireland’s climate targetsIDA Ireland and their support of transformative investments in clean energyHow University of Galway is driving change and embedding sustainability in educationThe importance of lifelong learning for engineers to adapt to a changing worldThe need for engineers to work with other scientific professionals, social scientists, and business leaders to solve sustainability challenges.GUEST DETAILS Niamh Breslin is Sustainability Manager at IDA Ireland. Niamh manages the development and implementation of IDA Ireland’s foreign direct investment Sustainability strategy, with a focus on decarbonisation of the FDI industry, and delivery of IDA Ireland’s commitments to the National Climate Action Plan.Niamh has significant international experience and has successfully led teams in Dublin, London, Paris and Frankfurt. Niamh has a degree in Computational Linguistics from Dublin City University and a diploma in Business Management from University of Galway. Dr Richard Manton is the Director of Sustainability at University of Galway, Ireland's leading university for sustainability and a National SDG Ambassador. He was previously the Registrar at Engineers Ireland and a Non-Executive Director at Bus Éireann. Richard is a Chartered Engineer and Fellow of Engineers Ireland with a BE in civil engineering, MA in financial management and a PhD in sustainable transportation. He is the current Chairperson of the Engineers Ireland West Region.MORE INFORMATIONLooking 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.Further information is also available at RESEARCH.UNIVERSITYOFGALWAY.IEQUOTESThere are companies in Ireland today that will see their Scope 1 carbon emissions reduced by 100%. This is real. It’s happening— Niamh Breslin, IDA IrelandGraduates are choosing employers based on sustainability. If your climate action plan isn’t strong, you’ll lose talent— Niamh Breslin, IDA IrelandEven with all of these ambitious plans, we’re only on track to hit about 23% emissions reduction by 2030. We need to be more radical— Richard Manton, University of GalwayElectrification and public transport are the key. It’s not just about EVs—it’s about moving people, en masse, sustainably— Richard Manton, University of GalwayWe need engineers who can speak finance—who can sit with CFOs and show where the savings are. That’s how we get buy-in— Niamh Breslin, IDA IrelandKEYWORDS#SustainableDevelopmentGoals #NetZero #RenewableEnergy #GridResilience #OffshoreWind 

Engineering has always been about solving problems—but today’s problems are bigger, greener, and more complex than ever before. From cutting carbon in concrete to tunnelling under major cities, the pressure is on to build infrastructure that’s not just strong, but sustainable.In this episode, we explore what it really takes to deliver major engineering projects while meeting ambitious climate targets. We’ll hear how to lead under pressure, manage high-stakes decisions, and unlock career-defining opportunities through mentorship and curiosity. Plus, we look at how engineers can drive innovation from within—by asking the right questions, building strong teams, and embracing failure as a pathway to growth.Our guest brings over 20 years of hands-on experience across some of the UK and Ireland’s biggest civil infrastructure projects, including Crossrail, the Limerick Tunnel, and the Luas Cross City. He’s passionate about decarbonising construction and shaping the next generation of engineering leaders. It’s a pleasure to welcome Ross Cullen, Group Chief Engineer and Head of Engineering Services at Sisk.THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUTThe importance of people skills in the engineering industryThe challenges in working on engineering projects underground and underwaterHow sustainability and decarbonisation play a role in engineering todayThe need for innovation and continuous improvement in an ever evolving industryCareer development and ownership, and the importance of being inquisitive.GUEST DETAILSRoss Cullen is Group Chief Engineer and Head of Engineering Services at Sisk. He is responsible for developing and leading Engineering strategy for the organisation supporting pre-construction and current projects under construction across Ireland, the UK and Europe. In 2018, Ross established an Engineering Services department in Sisk, growing a business out of the Civil Engineering unit and created an internal consultancy to provide construction engineering consultancy services to the wider GroupRoss is a Chartered Civil Engineer and Fellow of Engineers Ireland and the Institute of Civil Engineers. His background extends from working on complex infrastructure schemes, where he has been central to the design management process. His experience extends across multiple sectors including Infrastructure, Civil Engineering, Marine, Data, Energy, Life Sciences, Commercial and Residential.Ross is passionate about sustainability and seeking out carbon savings in the construction industry. Ross is chair of the Sisk Low Carbon Concrete working group and is actively involved in several collaborations with industry and academic institutes to support the development of new low carbon concrete solutions.MORE INFORMATIONLooking 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.QUOTESBe inquisitive, ask questions, because people are incredibly generous with their time if you ask the questions and you show an interest.  - Ross CullenYou need to take some ownership for your own career. You need to decide fairly early what you like, what you don't like, because it's important to rule out certain things. - Ross CullenYou learn from problems. You learn from what's caused you pain. You don't learn from what goes well - Ross CullenComing up with a good idea is the easy bit with anything… sometimes making it better isn't the right thing to do. - Ross CullenConstruction is a people business, and that's what makes it exciting. You meet different people, different skill sets, extremely diverse. - Ross Cullen

Building a stronger “Ireland Inc” means rethinking how we plan, deliver, and promote our engineering and infrastructure capabilities on a global stage.Today, we’re diving into how Ireland can overcome some of its most pressing infrastructure delivery challenges—from modernizing procurement strategies to fostering more inclusive and resilient engineering teams. We’ll also explore why staff wellbeing, visibility, and collaboration are now essential pillars of successful project delivery, and examine the persistent barriers facing women in the profession.Joining us is a chartered engineer and one of the youngest ever Fellows of Engineers Ireland, with over 20 years of multidisciplinary experience. She brings a rare combination of technical expertise and a deep passion for people, policy, and progress. It’s a pleasure to welcome Collette O’Shea, Head of Strategic Procurement for Ireland at AECOM.THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUTHow personal values and purpose can shape career directionThe role of creativity and continuous learning in engineering successTransforming Ireland’s procurement models for infrastructure deliveryWork-life balance and the reality of burnout in engineeringWomen in engineering and the promise of AIGUEST DETAILSColette O’Shea is Head of Strategic Procurement for Ireland at AECOM, she also holds the role of Project Director on several strategic infrastructure projects. A Chartered Engineer and one of the youngest individuals to attain Fellowship with Engineers Ireland, Colette has over two decades of multidisciplinary experience and has contributed to major public sector initiatives, including projects for the National Development Finance Agency, Irish Water, and Dublin Airport Authority. Her academic background includes a BE in Civil Engineering from University College Dublin, complemented by further qualifications in project management, law, and coaching. A passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion, Colette chairs the Women in Engineering Group at Engineers Ireland, where she works to support and advance women in the engineering profession. https://ie.linkedin.com/in/colette-o-shea-8178391a MORE INFORMATIONLooking 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.QUOTESWhile there are rules in engineering, it's about applying them to the situation in front of you, which is different all the time. - Colette O’SheaI don't know if it's a problem. I think I prefer to think of it as a challenge. - Colette O’SheaWe need to make the industry sustainable, and certainly in the infrastructure space, to make it attractive for companies. - Colette O’SheaOne of the main things that I learned from burnout was that having it and experiencing it was the complete opposite of failing at my job. - Colette O’SheaYou can make any mistake once and we will learn from it, but if you make the same mistake twice and don't learn, we'll have an issue. - Colette O’SheaKEYWORDS#Infrastructure #engineering #procurement #inclusivity #wellbeing #visibility #water #AI #burnout, #energy

What does it take to stay at the cutting edge of technology while also fostering innovation, sustainability, and personal growth? Today, we explore how one global powerhouse continues to reinvent itself in Ireland through groundbreaking projects, strategic acquisitions, and a deep investment in people. From historic feats like the Ardnacrusha hydroelectric scheme to the rise of digital and AI, this episode covers the past, present, and future of engineering excellence. We’ll uncover how digitalization is revolutionizing infrastructure, and why a culture of continuous learning and collaboration is now more critical than ever. Our guest began his journey as an apprentice electrician and rose through the ranks to help shape the future of one of Ireland’s most innovative engineering and technology companies. Now serving as General Manager and Head of Fire and Security Solutions at Siemens Ireland, it’s a pleasure to welcome Joe Walsh to the podcast.THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUTHow the Ardnacrusha legacy still matters today’s engineering landscape Building a career from apprentice electrician to General Manager of Siemens Ireland Leveraging AI, digital twins, and automation to transform infrastructureTackling global challenges like sustainability and resource efficiencyCulture, collaboration & lifelong learning: a people-first approachGUEST DETAILS​Joe Walsh is the General Manager of Siemens Limited in Ireland, a role he has held since November 2021. He also heads the company's Solutions and Services division, overseeing areas such as fire safety, electronic security, building automation, and smart lighting .​Joe is deeply committed to advancing sustainable and digital technologies, playing a pivotal role in projects like the Shannon Hydroelectric Scheme and initiatives aimed at decarbonizing data centers through renewable energy and green hydrogen solutions . His leadership extends to standardization efforts, serving as Chair of the NSAI TC16 Working Group on Fire Detection and Alarm Systems, where he has been instrumental in modernizing Ireland's fire safety standards .​Known for his authentic leadership style, Joe emphasizes collaboration, continuous learning, and innovation. His dedication to these principles has been central to Siemens' century-long presence and ongoing success in Ireland .​https://ie.linkedin.com/in/joewalsh1965 MORE INFORMATIONLooking 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.QUOTESWhere is my passion? It's to take the current business that we have and the model that we have and bring it into the future. - Joe Walsh We work really hard to create a sense of belonging and ownership. - Joe Walsh It's not what you know today. It's more about how you learn. That's the real trick. - Joe Walsh We have a term we use in Siemens, if Siemens knew what Siemens know. Experience is the sum of your mistakes.  - Joe Walsh KEYWORDS#engineering #challenges #Siemens #infrastructure #fire #AI #digitaltwins #sustainability #innovation #leadership

Building in highly dense city centers presents a unique set of challenges—tight spaces, heavy traffic, and the need to preserve historical structures while meeting modern safety and sustainability standards. Today we hear from an experienced engineer turned project manager who is an expert in navigating these complex logistics, from coordinating material deliveries with precision to ensuring that construction doesn’t disrupt the surrounding urban landscape. We hear how to safely excavate deep beneath a centuries-old building and what it takes to integrate modern engineering solutions into historic sites, along with the ever-growing importance of sustainability in engineering.Our guest today has nearly 30 years of experience in construction across sectors such as pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and large-scale commercial projects. He is a regional director at PJ Hegarty, John Gavigan. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUTDiverse and challenging projects keep work interesting Mastering logistics in city-center constructionBlending modern engineering with historic structuresMaking safety the number one priority of any build The evolving role of sustainability in constructionGUEST DETAILSJohn Gavigan joined PJ Hegarty in 1996 as a graduate engineer. He progressed within the company embracing new responsibilities and roles, completed several projects as Contracts Manager and was appointed as Regional Director in 2023. John’s experience includes projects across several sectors: pharmaceutical, city centre commercial, healthcare, semi-conductor, logistics, education, retail and PPP bids. He was the site lead for 10 Molesworth Street and Tropical Fruit Warehouse in Dublin city centre and the Zoetis project in Tullamore.Molesworth Street project https://www.pjhegarty.ie/projects/10-molesworth-street/ Tropical Fruit Warehouse project https://www.pjhegarty.ie/projects/tropical-fruit-warehouse/ MORE INFORMATIONLooking 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.QUOTESThe challenges are the things that you remember. That's what keeps it interesting. - John GaviganGetting concrete trucks into the city centre location in the middle of the day during business hours, was very challenging. - John GaviganIt's knowing how to judge when there's an opportunity. - John GaviganAs an engineer who has evolved as a project manager in my career, you learn different problem solving techniques, you develop analytical skills. - John GaviganKEYWORDS#engineering #city #projectmanagement #construction #logistics #trafficmanagement #safety

The engineering industry thrives on innovation and problem-solving, yet it continues to struggle with one persistent challenge—gender diversity. Women remain underrepresented, particularly in leadership roles, leaving many aspiring female engineers wondering how to break through.Today, we tackle this pressing issue head-on with insights from one of Ireland’s leading engineering voices. We uncover practical strategies for empowering more women into leadership, explore how inclusive teams drive better results, and reveal lessons from high-pressure projects like the London Olympics. Our guest leads one of Ireland's most progressive engineering and design consultancies, and is a chartered engineer with a passion for change. It's a pleasure to welcome Atkins realis Managing Director, Martina Finn.THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUTMeeting impossible deadlines on huge projectsNecessary disruptions to provide long-term infrastructurePromoting diversity and inclusion in engineering Embracing AI with correct policy implementation Self-development and the power of reverse-mentoring GUEST DETAILSMartina Finn is Managing Director at Atkins Realis and a Chartered Engineer with over 20years experience in the construction industry. She has been with Atkins since 2001.https://www.linkedin.com/in/martina-finn-a7400812/ MORE INFORMATIONLooking 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.QUOTESWith every major progression we do, there has to be some disruption and some sacrifice. - Martina Finn The percentage of women in engineering globally has fallen since 2020 from 15% to 13.7%. - Martina Finn The more diverse our workforce is, both culturally and in gender diversity, then the better solutions we can deliver for our clients and our communities. - Martina Finn For anybody entering a company, get into a mentorship programme. - Martina Finn KEYWORDS#Engineering #diversity #inclusion #mentorship #careerdevelopment #AI #projectmanagement #education #gender 

Often in engineering we focus on the technical, production parts of a project, but it is the people who make the projects. As a leader, learning to support those people is vital. Today we hear from a prominent engineer who through his work in ground engineering, consulting, operations, HR and business, has gained many skills in managing and leading people. He believes safety, quality, inclusion and collaboration should be at the forefront of every project and combining that with purpose-led business creates the ultimate best outcomes. Our guest today has almost 30 years of experience with one of Ireland’s leading construction companies and believes in adapting the construction industry to support diversity and sustainability. He is BAM UK & Ireland’s Executive Director of Ireland, Alasdair Henderson. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUTTransitioning from managing projects to leading people Approaching safety with prevention instead of reaction Working on public infrastructure such as the National Children’s Hospital Sustainable design to support a net zero futurePlanning diversity and inclusion to create an accessible society AI, robotics and material innovations for the future of engineering GUEST DETAILSAlasdair Henderson is BAM UK & Ireland’s Executive Director of Ireland. Alasdair joined BAM as a graduate engineer in 1996 and has worked his way up through a variety of operational and business leadership roles across BAM. He is well known as an advocate of purpose-led business, believing that the best and most sustainable financial results are achieved when the things we build add value to society. He holds safety, quality, inclusion, and collaboration as key tenets of what makes a good business and is delighted that he sees all these things on a daily basis at BAM.  Alasdair is actively involved in policy development in the industry and is a fellow of the Institution of Civil Engineers, a fellow of the Institute of Quarrying, and a visiting professor at the University of Strathclyde.  https://www.linkedin.com/in/alasdairehenderson MORE INFORMATIONLooking 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.QUOTESThe time you spend thinking most about safety is normally immediately after an accident. - Alasdair Henderson It's one of the largest buildings in Europe. - Alasdair Henderson If you start with a misaligned scope, it never gets better. It just gets worse and worse and worse. - Alasdair Henderson You can absolutely make those environments safer, warmer, more welcoming by changing the way you design that infrastructure. . - Alasdair Henderson Our industry is addicted to concrete and steel. If we want to get to net zero, we're going to have to do something around that. - Alasdair Henderson KEYWORDS#Engineering #construction #BAMIreland #NationalChildren'sHospital #publicprocurement #sustainability #diversity #digitalization

Building skyscrapers is an incredibly complex task. From the complexities of designing foundations to considering wind forces, and working with multi-disciplinary teams in busy urban areas. Today we’re joined by an engineer who worked on the design of Western Europe’s tallest tower, The Shard. We delve into the unique challenges she came across and the top-down construction method that was used for maximum efficiency, along with what she learned about the importance of relationships in the engineering space. Our guest is an engineer, physicist, author and presenter with almost 15 years experience in the industry. It’s a pleasure to have Roma Agrawal, MBE. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUTThe historical significance of The Shard design Challenges of building a skyscrapers foundations Considering factors such a local disruption and wind force Collaboration and team-work across multiple disciplinesWhy we need to shout louder about engineering success GUEST DETAILSRoma Agrawal is an engineer, author and presenter who is best known for working on the design of The Shard, Western Europe's tallest tower. She studied at Imperial College London and the University of Oxford. Roma has given lectures to thousands at universities, schools and organisations around the world, including TEDx talks. She has also presented numerous TV shows for the BBC, Channel 4 and Discovery, and hosts her own podcast, Building Stories.Her first book, BUILT (2018) won an AAAS science book award and has been translated into eight languages. Roma is passionate about promoting engineering and technical careers to young people, particularly those from minority groups, and has won international awards for her technical prowess and for her advocacy for the profession, including the prestigious Royal Academy of Engineering's Rooke Award. She was appointed an MBE in 2018 for services to engineering.https://www.romatheengineer.com/MORE INFORMATIONLooking 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.QUOTESI really love the idea of responding to what's there. This building could only have been on this particular site. - Roma Agrawal There's lots of different systems that have to work together to make sure that a big skyscraper stays stable. - Roma Agrawal A building like The Shard, we predict might move about half a metre. What's key as a structural engineer is to make sure that we don't feel that. - Roma Agrawal As a student, I don't think I ever understood how essential the skill of being able to work with other people is to be an engineer - Roma Agrawal I think being enthusiastic about what you do is a big thing. I think we're all too modest. - Roma Agrawal KEYWORDS#construction #theshard #site #management #wind #design #collaboration #engineering

From the rise of AI to the implementation of 3D printing and robots, the world is changing rapidly and can leave some engineers questioning their place in it all. Today we hear from an engineer who is not only adopting, but embracing these new technologies as the leader of one of Ireland’s top manufacturing research organisations. We learn about emerging tech that is changing the game in manufacturing and why although this change can seem overwhelming, adapting is the best way forward. Our guest has over 15 years Directing and Leading Organisations both in MNC environments and new organisational start-ups and is currently CEO of Irish Manufacturing Research, Barry Kennedy. THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUTKeeping Ireland competitive with new technologies and automationIMR connecting cutting-edge manufacturing technology with Irish industriesCreating a positive environment for innovationLateral thinking and problem solving methodologies The benefits robots and humans working side by side GUEST DETAILSBarry Kennedy is the CEO of Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR) and is responsible for setting the strategy, objectives, goals and direction of the company. He is responsible for the overall centre and staff.  He also owns modelling and setting of the company’s culture, values, and behaviour. He is responsible for building and leading the senior executive team and for allocating capital to the company’s priorities; for example, deciding where IMR spends its time and resources.Barry has over 15 years Directing and Leading Organisations both in MNC environments and new organisational start-ups from working in the following organisational roles including; CEO of Irish Manufacturing Research, Director in IIOT division, Intel, CEO of both Irish Centre for Manufacturing Research (ICMR) Ltd & Innovation for Irelands Energy Efficiency (i2e2) Ltd, Department Manager and senior manager of Manufacturing Quality in Intel, Chair and Director on several boards including volunteer boards such as Chair of the school board.https://ie.linkedin.com/in/barry-kennedy-a9a127b MORE INFORMATIONLooking 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.QUOTESIf we're going to survive and thrive over the next number of years, we're going to have to adopt these new technologies so that it'll drive efficiencies in our manufacturing organizations and keep ourselves profitable, or we're going to be left behind. - Barry Kennedy It is important for companies and senior leadership to ensure that they're creating enough space for their engineering teams to be able to think about how to solve the problems. - Barry Kennedy I have seen that in a lot of companies over the years, where they haven't resolved problems. They've band aided them. - Barry Kennedy I'd never seen the technology come in and transform so fast as AI has just done over the last 18 months. - Barry Kennedy Engineers need to be prepared now to have lifelong learning. And that's the way life is going to be, because what we were doing today, in five years time is going to be very different, most likely. - Barry Kennedy KEYWORDS#AI #transformation #engineering #manufacturing #technology #digital #robotic #3Dprinting #innovation

As our population grows and our world gets busier, there is significant pressure put on our infrastructure and there is an increasing demand for innovative solutions. Today we’re meeting an engineer who is leading a team of over 400 people working on Ireland’s infrastructure and transport systems to develop a more sustainable future. We hear how important building a strong network is for learning and advancing projects, and about the technical challenges of working with public transport and gas lines.Our guest today has transitioned from civil engineer to management in his almost 30 years with ARUP and is Ireland Group Leader in Advisory, Planning, Digital, Infrastructure Design and Technical Services, Donal McDaid.THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUTBuilding a solid network through project work Transitioning to sustainable solutions in infrastructureImpact of planning and regulation on projectsThe journey to leadership and management Innovations in materials and digital GUEST DETAILSDonal McDaid manages Arup’s Transport and resources Group in Ireland, which is primarily focused on our Roads and Urban Streets, Rail, Aviation, Maritime, Energy and Water Businesses. There, he leads a diverse, highly motivated team of 300 professional planners, engineers and management consultants. Since joining Arup in 1997, Donal has worked on and led multi-disciplinary teams on transport planning and environmental studies, and large scale transport infrastructure project planning, design and implementation, both in Ireland and overseas.https://www.linkedin.com/in/donalmcdaid/ MORE INFORMATIONLooking 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.QUOTESI got to know every single local authority engineer, I got to know every single architect, I got to know every single planner, every single developer. So the project afforded me the opportunity to build a network. - Donal McDaid We've come through a decade of what I would call planning and designing. The next decade is going to be about delivery. So I can't think of a more exciting time to be coming into the engineering profession. - Donal McDaidYou really need to think about the existential crisis, which is climate change. And what that does for engineers is that we need to think about our adaptation, resilience when it comes to infrastructure. - Donal McDaid You actually have to think about the communities you're serving. And if I think about transport, it's always been about access to opportunity. - Donal McDaid Don't run before you can walk. Be content and learn your trade. Seize the opportunities. - Donal McDaid KEYWORDS#infrastructure #sustainability #future #civilengineering #career #transport