I graduated in 2012 from Sligo Institute of Technology with a Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering. I worked as a Quality Engineer for a sheet metal component company in Galway for a year. In November 2013 the Irish Naval Service was recruiting Mechanical Engineers as Direct Entries. The Naval service is the maritime component of the Defence Forces with a Base and Headquarters located in Haulbowline, Co. Cork. As a Petty Officer Engine Room Artificer (Marine/Mechanical Engineering Maintenance Technician), who, after full military and on-the-job training, I was an integral part of the maintenance team providing technical support on board a fleet of eight ships. It has provided me with an interesting, rewarding and challenging career.I have now taken up the role as Mechanical Engineer with Framespace Solutions in Longford. Framespace Solutions specialise in the Design & Manufacture of Light Gauge Steel (LGS) structures for use in the residential construction sector throughout Ireland and the UK. My role is to maintain the various machines in the factory which are a critical part of the manufacturing process.