With a minimum of 3,000 new civil engineers needed to ensure the successful delivery of Project Ireland 2040, the National Development Plan and Climate Action Plan 2019, an alternative delivery model for civil engineering needed to be developed to entice stronger uptake of the profession.
As a profession listed on the critical skills occupation list, additional approaches for recruitment in this field are needed to address challenges in the public sector. To aid in this objective, Atlantic Technological University (ATU) have engaged with the Local Authority sector to develop a programme where new entrants to engineering disciplines can gain suitable academic qualifications while also engaging in workplace-based learning.

With campuses in Donegal, Sligo, Mayo, and Galway, ATU serves a diverse community of learners, staff, and organisations and offers a unique blend of academic excellence, research innovation, and quality of life. With a student body exceeding 26,000 across 600+ undergraduate and doctoral programs, ATU fosters a community where success is elevated through shared goals and achievements. Their commitment to academic excellence empowers students to become responsible citizens, critical thinkers, and lifelong learners.

South Dublin County Council is now offering one, 3-year Civil Engineering (Level 7) Apprenticeship in partnership with ATU. Upon the completion of this 3-year Civil Engineering 2 Apprenticeship, the successful candidate will receive a Bachelor of Engineering (Level 7) in Civil Engineering with the possible opportunity to progress to Level 8 with ATU.
This is an exciting new initiative, creating an alternative career path to the Civil Engineering profession in Ireland based on an earn and learn model.
The civil engineering apprenticeship programme is planned to be transformational, and, over time, bridge the shortfall in supply of engineers in Ireland, providing those skills critical to the delivery of Project Ireland 2040. Designed to develop the skills, knowledge and competencies to meet the future needs of the industry, this programme will appeal to those seeking to build a career in civil engineering.