Two Kildare apprentices were recognised at the national WorldSkills awards
Two Kildare apprentices have been awarded at the national WorldSkills awards with Atlantic Technological University.
Celbridge woman Méabh Gannon was the winner of the Industrial Control category, while Kill native Conall Pakenham was recognised in the Electrical Installations category.
Overall, five students and apprentices secured national titles with 26 competitors representing the university.
Speaking on Kildare Today, winner of the Industrial Control category Méabh Gannon says doing an apprenticeship was the best decision she has ever made:
"I was talking to my guidance counsellor when I was in school about options, I applied for a few college courses but I didn't think it would suit me, I applied to an apprenticeship then and it's the best decision I've ever made.
"I have no one who's in a trade in my immediate family. But every year I've just been more confirmed that I've made the right choice.
"It's great for young people leaving school to see an apprenticeship as a real and viable option, the benefit of being able to learn while you earn and gain a practical skill, and you can take your skill with you wherever you go," she added.
Méabh also dispelled the perception of apprenticeships being for people who don't necessarily excel in a school setting:
"That's the thing about apprenticeships, [people say] 'if you struggle in the school environment you can pick up an apprenticeship', which obviously is true as well. But I did well in school, I just didn't enjoy it, I wanted that aspect of hands-on working and I find it really rewarding."
She reflected on the significance of being the first woman to win the title, as she hopes to be an example for others making their way in different trades.
"I'm still taking it in, I'm obviously delighted with myself, I'm the first woman to win that title so you realise you're making a difference here and there.
"It translates past languages when you have a practical skill, you can do it anywhere in the world."
The full interview can be heard below:
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