FEC - School of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering
School of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering
Stokes Building, Dublin City University

DCU hosted a wide range of interactive events for Engineers Week 2023

Stokes Building, Dublin City University
3D printing, rapid prototyping and designing an electric racing car were just some of the activities that were lined up for curious Transition Year students during The STEPS Engineering Your Future Week 2023. Run by Engineers Ireland, the programme is a nationwide celebration of all things engineering. It aims to showcase the diverse range of engineering study programmes at third level and opportunities for a career in the sector.

19 students travelled to DCU’s Glasnevin campus for a week of experimentation, learning and challenge-based activities that explore the world of engineering. Students engaged in various workshops including a disintegration project, pneumatics laboratory workshop, solidworks and rapid prototyping, identifying and measuring parts for computer aided design (CAD) and then 3D printing them. The students participated in a workshop facilitated by The Rediscovery Centre, Ireland’s National Centre for the Circular Economy.

We marked Engineers Week with the launch of the new Ocean Energy Project Platform - a collaborative project funded by the European Union - which aims to make tidal energy competitive. We interviewed Dr Éadaoin Carthy of the School of Mechanical Engineering about her reasons for pursuing a career in engineering. We also interviewed alumna Aoife Lynch, a 2021 World Athletics relays' silver medalist and BEng in Mechatronic Engineering graduate, who spoke about combining sports and engineering. Link to read more here.

Mr Damien Owens, Director General of Engineers Ireland, commented:

The STEPS Engineering Your Future programme has grown from a pilot with UCD in 2012 to now having 29 project partners, providing even more students with the opportunity to explore the engineering profession. 

Innovative and forward-thinking companies are now working hand-in-hand with partners in academia to develop the talent of the future by providing Transition Year students with an opportunity to gain insight into engineering courses, careers and apprenticeship opportunities in their locality. This immersive experience encourages students to not only explore a variety of engineering disciplines, but also to experience, first-hand, the vital role of engineers in society.