Third year projects demonstrate potential careers in engineering
Students who are still weighing up their options for their CAO choice should consider mechanical engineering as a career. It’s a growing area and the employment prospects are bright.
The projects on display at the 3rd year Mechanical Engineering project exhibition in the Institute recently demonstrated the diversity of the skills honed in the course, and the opportunities that can arise from studying it. Major design and build projects are undertaken by all students and the projects range from Drift Cars and Mini Dumpers to Land Yachts and Bale Splitters.
Lecturer and programme co-ordinator in the IT Sligo Mechanical Engineering Department, Trevor McSharry said that, despite perceptions that ‘engineering’ in general is experiencing a downturn, the mechanical engineering area is enjoying a growth period.
“Anyone who is considering embarking on an engineering career would be advised to investigate their job prospects with a mechanical engineering qualification,” he said.
“According to the Central Statistics Office, industrial production was up by 15.7 per cent in the last year, while other related areas such as the high-technology and chemical sectors showed an annual increase in production of 21.7%,” he said.
Mr McSharry added that a qualification in mechanical engineering is not only relevant for the design and manufacturing sectors, but is also a good basis for a career in the emerging renewable and sustainable energy industries.
At IT Sligo, first year is common for BEng in Mechanical, Mechatronic or Electronic degrees which can give the flexibility to students to change between courses after first year if they wish. On successful completion of this course, students can progress to the BEng Honours in Mechanical Engineering.
If you are interested in further information, please visit www.itsligo.ie , or contact Trevor McSharry at 07191 55240/ email mcsharry.trevor@nullitsligo.ie.
