Each month, we put the spotlight on a Tirlán employee and for our March newsletter, we’re talking to Nick Doheny, Electrical & Instrumentation Apprentice

Nick Doheny grew up three miles outside Kilkenny City where he lives with his parents and two older sisters. Although not from a farming background, Nick spent many summer holidays working with a local farmer harvesting wheat and barley. He learned to drive at an early age and enjoyed driving machinery, transporting the grain from farm to local mills. Other tasks on the farm included manure spreading and feeding cattle.

Nick is a past pupil of St Kieran’s College, Kilkenny where he studied Agricultural Science, Construction Studies and Tech Graphics. He heard about the Apprenticeship Programme from his Career Guidance teacher at St Kieran’s College and felt that a mix of on the job training, working with his hands and study would suit him best.

“Guest speakers from the local SOLAS office gave presentations to 6th year students on the Apprenticeship Programme and the idea of a qualification that would be recognised worldwide appealed to me. My Dad had also completed an apprenticeship in Metal Fabrication and suggested that he apply for the Electrical Apprenticeship with Tirlán,” says Nick.

Currently in Phase II of his apprenticeship at LCETB Limerick, Nick is studying Electricity/Electronics and Installation Techniques. This is a 27 week programme after which he will return to his workplace at Tirlán, Belview, Co Kilkenny. “At Tirlán, I’m working as an electrical instrumentation apprentice and I’m really enjoying it. I’m learning how to carry out maintenance of machines and calibration of measuring instruments (temperature, flow and pressure transmitters) and controlling of various devices and systems. I think the Tirlán Apprenticeship Programme has really benefitted me as it allows me to earn as I learn. I’m learning new craft-related skills, knowledge and competencies from experienced craftspeople.” Nick’s role involves working to the highest hygiene and health & safety standards. He has learned a range of new work-related skills, working with different teams on a regular basis and adapting to how his work colleagues carry out different tasks.

Nick enjoys working independently or as part of a team.  “Aspects of the work include working on machines and using a variety of specialised hand tools, power tools and equipment. The programme has been designed to allow employees demonstrate their individual skills and talents and to reach their full potential while learning from others, which is something I really like about it.”

Nick would advise others who are considering applying for the Tirlán Apprenticeship Programme to ensure they have a good understanding of the role. “A good flair for physics, mathematics and technical diagrams is essential. Other skills required include planning and organisational skills, problem solving and good attention to detail.”

Nick has played hurling from an early age, playing for St Kieran’s College and Dicksboro Hurling Club. He has also played on the Kilkenny Minor Team. Along with hurling, Nick enjoys running and the gym.