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Eamon Kenny
BSc (Hons) in Occupational Safety and Health
Sligo
Tell us a little bit about yourself and what led you to choose your course:
Growing up on a family farm sparked my keen interest in farming, which ultimately inspired me to pursue a career in Health & Safety. The nature of the farming industry, with its unique challenges, motivated me to make a positive impact by improving farming practices. I believed that studying Health & Safety would equip me with the knowledge and skills needed to bring about meaningful change in this area.
What specifically about the course did you particularly enjoy?
I enjoyed many aspects of the course, particularly the smaller class sizes, which allowed for a more personal and engaging learning environment. The lecturers were always available to offer advice and guidance, making the experience supportive and collaborative. Additionally, the blend of classroom-based learning with practical assessments in the labs was a refreshing change from what I was used to, providing a well-rounded educational experience.
Any favourite modules during your time studying?
My favourite module was Enquiry-Based Learning (EBL). This module was especially enjoyable because it emphasized group work and the development of essential career skills. We engaged in group discussions on various topics, where everyone had a voice and could express their opinions respectfully. The collaborative nature of this module made it a standout experience for me.
What key skills did you learn while studying at IT Sligo/ATU that have influenced your career?
The EBL module helped me develop crucial skills, including problem-solving and public speaking. These have become my strongest assets in my current role. I consider myself an effective problem solver, able to think quickly and make sound decisions under pressure. The confidence I gained in speaking in front of large audiences has been invaluable—I now frequently deliver presentations to groups of over 700 people, a feat that would have been impossible without the skills I acquired at IT Sligo.
Can you share some details of your career path to date?
After graduating, I started my career working part-time as a farmer and as a Junior EHS Advisor for a construction company. I then moved to London, where I gained significant experience working on some of the city’s largest construction projects with the JRL Group. It was a fascinating experience building some of the world’s tallest buildings, and I have fond memories of my time in London. Later, I joined FDL, where I traveled across the UK, overseeing safety on multiple sites and gaining experience in various types of construction projects.
What does your current role involve?
As the EHS Manager for one of Ireland’s largest construction companies, I oversee a team of approximately 25-30 safety professionals. We manage projects across Ireland, the UK, and more recently in Europe. My role involves a lot of travel but also offers the flexibility to work from home, which is a significant advantage. My responsibilities include updating or creating policies and procedures, conducting audits, generating reports, investigating accidents and incidents, speaking at events, and participating in industry groups and events organized by the Construction Industry Federation of Ireland.
What advice would you share with our current students considering a career in your field?
I encourage students to ask as many questions as possible during the EBL module and to fully engage in group work sessions. The skills and insights gained from this module are invaluable. While Health & Safety may have had a negative perception in the past, it’s now being embraced more widely, which is great to see. As a safety professional, your role is to help, advise, coach, and educate people on best practices to ensure their safety. It’s important to always remember that you are there to support and protect others in the workplace.
What did you like best about studying at IT Sligo/ATU?
I appreciated the compact layout of the campus, which made it easy to get to classes without having to brave the rain that often falls! There was always a lively and enjoyable atmosphere in the canteens and common areas, which made the college experience even more pleasant.
What advice would you give a first-year student starting at ATU Sligo?
Embrace the changes and challenges that college life brings. It’s very different from secondary school and requires focus and commitment, but stick with it. There’s plenty of support available at the college if you’re struggling to adjust, and with persistence, you will succeed.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and what led you to choose your course:
Growing up on a family farm sparked my keen interest in farming, which ultimately inspired me to pursue a career in Health & Safety. The nature of the farming industry, with its unique challenges, motivated me to make a positive impact by improving farming practices. I believed that studying Health & Safety would equip me with the knowledge and skills needed to bring about meaningful change in this area.
What specifically about the course did you particularly enjoy?
I enjoyed many aspects of the course, particularly the smaller class sizes, which allowed for a more personal and engaging learning environment. The lecturers were always available to offer advice and guidance, making the experience supportive and collaborative. Additionally, the blend of classroom-based learning with practical assessments in the labs was a refreshing change from what I was used to, providing a well-rounded educational experience.
Any favourite modules during your time studying?
My favourite module was Enquiry-Based Learning (EBL). This module was especially enjoyable because it emphasized group work and the development of essential career skills. We engaged in group discussions on various topics, where everyone had a voice and could express their opinions respectfully. The collaborative nature of this module made it a standout experience for me.
What key skills did you learn while studying at IT Sligo/ATU that have influenced your career?
The EBL module helped me develop crucial skills, including problem-solving and public speaking. These have become my strongest assets in my current role. I consider myself an effective problem solver, able to think quickly and make sound decisions under pressure. The confidence I gained in speaking in front of large audiences has been invaluable—I now frequently deliver presentations to groups of over 700 people, a feat that would have been impossible without the skills I acquired at IT Sligo.
Can you share some details of your career path to date?
After graduating, I started my career working part-time as a farmer and as a Junior EHS Advisor for a construction company. I then moved to London, where I gained significant experience working on some of the city’s largest construction projects with the JRL Group. It was a fascinating experience building some of the world’s tallest buildings, and I have fond memories of my time in London. Later, I joined FDL, where I traveled across the UK, overseeing safety on multiple sites and gaining experience in various types of construction projects.
What does your current role involve?
As the EHS Manager for one of Ireland’s largest construction companies, I oversee a team of approximately 25-30 safety professionals. We manage projects across Ireland, the UK, and more recently in Europe. My role involves a lot of travel but also offers the flexibility to work from home, which is a significant advantage. My responsibilities include updating or creating policies and procedures, conducting audits, generating reports, investigating accidents and incidents, speaking at events, and participating in industry groups and events organized by the Construction Industry Federation of Ireland.
What advice would you share with our current students considering a career in your field?
I encourage students to ask as many questions as possible during the EBL module and to fully engage in group work sessions. The skills and insights gained from this module are invaluable. While Health & Safety may have had a negative perception in the past, it’s now being embraced more widely, which is great to see. As a safety professional, your role is to help, advise, coach, and educate people on best practices to ensure their safety. It’s important to always remember that you are there to support and protect others in the workplace.
What did you like best about studying at IT Sligo/ATU?
I appreciated the compact layout of the campus, which made it easy to get to classes without having to brave the rain that often falls! There was always a lively and enjoyable atmosphere in the canteens and common areas, which made the college experience even more pleasant.
What advice would you give a first-year student starting at ATU Sligo?
Embrace the changes and challenges that college life brings. It’s very different from secondary school and requires focus and commitment, but stick with it. There’s plenty of support available at the college if you’re struggling to adjust, and with persistence, you will succeed.