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It is often thought that females are underrepresented in the construction and engineering sector. One lecturer at Southern Regional College determined to change this narrative, is Melanie Boyce. Melanie teaches on the College’s Construction BSc degree programmes in both the Portadown and Newry campuses and has worked in a variety of roles in the construction sector.
Melanie’s CV experience is impressive having worked as a quantity surveyor in a multi-disciplinary consultancy firm and as a traffic and transport engineer, designing bypasses and undertaking traffic impact assessments. Melanie has also worked as a project manager on one of the largest demolition sites in Northern Ireland. This role has seen Melanie manage personnel, work progress, health and safety, site finances and environmental concerns.
Melanie has worked within civil engineering teams where the ratio of female to male civil engineers was almost 50%. As Melanie says “I think parents are sometimes not aware of the vast numbers of professional women working both as consultants or on construction sites; some of the greatest architects and engineers in world are women. Take Zaha Hadid for example. She is possibly one the UK’s greatest architects and was presented with the Pritzker Architecture prize, an international architecture award in 2004.”
Melanie continues “It may be viewed as a male dominated industry, but I have had the luxury of working with mixed teams and have always been treated with the same respect afforded to my male counterparts.
"Respect is earned and that is same for everyone in any industry regardless of gender. Your skills and experience speak for themselves, but the most important thing is to believe in own your capabilities and not be limited by what others think.”
Career opportunities and roles within the sector are vast. For persons with an arts background, architects, designers and interior designers are in demand to shape how a building feels and more importantly how it is lived in. For those with a science background, then perhaps an engineering role would be of more interest. Engineers come to a task with an open mind ready to problem solve and trouble shoot, communicating with other stakeholders. Perhaps analysing environmental or social impacts of proposed projects.
Students and in particular young females should be encouraged to see the various roles in the industry. They go beyond traditional roles of digger drivers and bricklayers. Whilst these roles are fundamental to the sector and these persons are very much part of the team, there are opportunities.
Melanie added “To hang of the side of high-rise buildings using ropes, then there’s a job role for that. If you want to work to reduce carbon emissions, then the possibilities in the industry are endless.
"You can work on all types of structures, residential, commercial, industrial, healthcare, sewage and water treatment, roads, airports, docks, drainage, fitting out cruise ships, professional cleaning, painting to estate agents and surveyors.”
For those interested in a career in the sector, there is the potential to be well compensated and be part of a team that physically changes the landscape. To be part of a team that creates monumental change is inspiring. The construction sector is full of problem solvers with a ‘can do’ attitude. It’s an exciting industry where technology and design are constantly pushing the limits.
Those interested in a career in the construction and engineering industry might be building the next ski resort in the desert, reclaiming land back from the ocean or building four storeys underneath the ground, while pushing the skyline upwards. The construction of buildings and other infrastructure projects provides a great sense of pride. The sector really changes peoples’ lives whether it is in the construction of schools, hospitals, roads, flood defences, waste water treatment works or building homes.
At Southern Regional College, there are opportunities for school leavers and adult returners to launch a career within the construction and engineering sector, with either a further education or higher education programme. Visit www.src.ac.uk to find out more.
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Students from Southern Regional College picked up an amazing 8 medals at The Construction Industry Training Board NI (CITB NI) annual SkillBuild NI Regional Competition 2024 competition at South West College Technology and Skills Centre, Enniskillen.
Designed to test skills, technique, ability within tight timeframes, the competition identifies the top performers in 12 different trade areas within construction apprenticeship programmes from across Northern Ireland. It is a showcase of the wealth of talent, professionalism, and the brightest recruits throughout the industry.
Categories included Brickwork, Cabinet Making, Carpentry, Electrical Installation, Fire and Security, Joinery, Painting & Decorating, Plastering Dry Wall Systems, Plastering, Plumbing, Wall & Floor Tiling.
Medal Winners
1st Gold Medal: Mathew Carswell, Bricklaying
1st Gold Medal: Thomas Maguire, Plastering
1st Gold Medal: Jonathan Gough, Electrical Installation
1st Gold Medal: Kirsty Leigh Stewart, Painting and Decorating
2nd Silver Medal: Mathew McCready, Plastering
2nd Silver Medal: Dean Frazer, Wall and Floor Tiling
2nd Silver Medal: Richard Loughran, Painting and Decorating
2nd Silver Medal: Adam Skelton, Electrical Installation
At the event, Painting and Decorating lecturer Patrick Maguire was awarded a special recognition award from CITB NI for his contribution to the skills competitions. Patrick has tutored many award-winning students and has accompanied students on the journey to SkillBuild UK success.
SkillBuild NI Regional Competition is part of a regional qualifier. Students from the College may have the opportunity to represent Northern Ireland in the SkillBuild UK national final held later in the year.
SkillBuild is delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB GB) and showcases some of the brightest talent in construction. Supported by the Department for the Economy and local construction companies, the competition provides an opportunity to showcase the high level of skills and the impressive talent within the workforce, as well as raising the status and standards of professional and technical education and training.
Barry Neilson, Chief Executive CITB NI, said: “A huge congratulations to all the apprentices who took part in the SkillBuild NI Regional Competition 2024 The event displayed remarkable talent and showcased the dedication of future construction leaders. Witnessing their enthusiasm highlights a promising future for the industry. Apprenticeships are crucial for industry growth, allowing businesses to shape their future workforce and develop necessary skills. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our partner SWC for the fantastic showcase of the NI talent pool throughout the competition and we look forward to the SkillBuild UK National Finals in November.”
Gareth Mone, Curriculum Area Manager at Southern Regional College, added “The success of our students and the special recognition award for our lecturer Patrick Maguire is a spectacular achievement for our competitors, Patrick and the College. This achievement once more highlights the expertise of our lecturers. However, this success is not without the substantial support provided by the College’s Senior Management Team who have invested time and financial assistance to secure the continued success of our student competitors. Recent upgrades to our facilities by the estates team should also be commended. These combined efforts have significantly enhanced training and skills development for our learners.
Congratulations once more to all, and I eagerly await the announcement of students moving forward to represent the College and Northern Ireland at the UK finals in November.”
Plumbing, Electrical and Fire winners may get the opportunity progress on to the UK Finals of SkillPLUMB and SkillELECTRIC to represent their trades in national competitions.
For further details on SkillBuild NI and CITB NI support for apprenticeships and employers visit www.citbni.org.uk
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Students, staff, friends, and family from across Southern Regional College’s campuses gathered at the Canal Court Hotel in Newry earlier this month to celebrate student accomplishments within each of the College’s four faculty areas through awards for ‘Classmate of the Year’, ‘Star Fundraiser’ and ‘Employer Choice’.
Guest speaker at the event was Adele Loughran, Global Operations Manager at EOS IT Solutions based in Banbridge. Adele is a past student having completed her Foundation Degree in Computing in Network Systems in 2016. Since completing her foundation degree, Adele’s career has skyrocketed, and she was on hand to offer advice to current students seeking out opportunities within employment. Adele commented:
“Over the years, I received great encouragement, and this gave me the drive to take on more opportunities and challenges. I found myself constantly raising my hand for more exposure to different areas of the business and by doing so I progressed from the basics to managing the end-to-end Operations of a Global Supply Chain program.”
With a message of constant evaluation and seeking out opportunities, Adele was keen to encourage students to reach for their potential. Adele added “I would like to congratulate all of you on your achievements, nominations and awards you have received today. And as this part of your journey with SRC is coming to an end and you are considering your plans for the future, I wish you the best of luck. Your road is your choice, believe in yourself and grab every opportunity as it presents itself.”
Lee Campbell, Interim Principal & CEO of Southern Regional College commented “Today’s awards recognise many facets of excellence – from those who have excelled academically, to those whose commitment to personal and professional development has been astounding, all of which displays an unwavering determination to succeed. Congratulations to each and every one of our award recipients today. You have demonstrated exceptional character and determination. Your achievements are a source of immense pride for us all.”
Local students recognised in the ceremony include:
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Up and coming artists on Southern Regional College’s Art and Design Level 3 Foundation Diploma programme and Higher National Diploma Art & Design – Art Practice are ‘Ready to Emerge’.
The class of 2024 are set to exhibit their year end exhibition pieces at SRC’s Newry West campus later this month. Opening night takes place on Thursday 23rd May from 6:30pm with the exhibition running until Friday 24th May. The public are free to attend and explore the diverse range of artistic styles and influences.
Exhibiting at the event are Higher National Diploma Art students Tarry Sweet and Sheila McGaffin. Tarry from Newry is a lady of many talents. Returning to education having worked in acute nursing, Tarry’s aim is to bring the natural world into the man-made world. Her work seeks to provide people with a voice and improve their mental health. Tarry commented “Everybody should have a voice and sometimes this will only happen if they can draw it and the purpose of this artwork is to encourage viewers to reflect on their impact on the environment.”
Also exhibiting at the event is Armagh student Sheila McGaffin. Sheila’s passion lies with blending art mediums to showcase the inspiration she draws from animals. Sheila is dedicated to her education in art and is keenly interested in the viewer’s response to her artwork.
The students are excited to welcome guests on opening night. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with the artists, discuss their pieces, and gain insights into their creative processes. Admission is free, making this event accessible to all art enthusiasts.
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Students from St Mark’s High School, Warrenpoint made a visit to the Fofanny Water Treatment Works for a NI Water open day to help them learn more about the journey water takes from source to tap.
Staff from all areas of NI Water’s business - scientists, environmentalists, and water process supply technicians - were on hand to showcase the behind-the-scenes workings and processes that go into cleaning water and keeping it safe in an ever changing environment.
The event was part of NI Water’s new Quality Water campaign that highlights the significant, often unseen role our scientists and water quality experts play in ensuring the water NI Water provides meets strict quality standards all year round.
Commenting on their day Frank from St Mark’s High School said “The event was good because it helped me understand where water comes from before it reaches my tap.” Ella from St Mark’s High School added “Today was helpful because it helped me understand all the filters water has to go through to make it safe to drink.”
Gary Presho, Water Supply Area Manager East said the hands-on event was an opportunity for the public to understand how their water is treated and safely tested before it is supplied to their taps at home and the pupils also got a chance to get involved in some key experiments with their scientific team.
Chris Hazzard MP said “Water is a very precious commodity. To see how it comes in to Fofanny Water Treatment Works and how it’s treated and then sent back out to us to be able to use it safely in our homes, it was fantastic.”
Harry Harvey MLA said “It’s absolutely amazing what they can do here at Fofanny Water Treatment Works. Every time I turn on the tap now and get a drink of water I will be thinking more about the water treatment process.”
Cllr Declan McAteer added “I found the whole process exceptionally interesting and I certainly enjoyed every minute of the visit.”
McAdam Design sponsored the bus for some schools to attend the open day events.
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Newry Southern Regional College art student Eugena Woods has created a piece of stunning artwork to mark the 30th anniversary of the twinning of two towns, Ruelle-sur-Touvre in France, and Banbridge. Entitled ‘Celebration of Fusion’ it incorporates fused glass and textiles.
On the design, Eugena was keen to tie in the histories of the towns. The glass represents the conflict that both Banbridge and Ruelle-sur-Touvre have experienced in their respective pasts. The glass is transparent allowing the viewer to see through and observe the towns’ mutual achievements over the last three decades, since the twinning in 1994.
The sunburst design printed on linen, is a nod to the historic linen manufacturing industry in Banbridge. It represents the energy and spirit of this union, what has been achieved so far and the potential for future possibilities. The strong vibrant colours and dynamic shapes represent the multicultural nature of the two communities.
This piece is a fusion of the past and present, honouring the importance of why town twinning was developed after the Second World War, and represents how both towns have been enriched by their relationships and understanding of their respective cultures.
The 30th anniversary of the town’s twinning has seen local residents availing of French lessons, cookery demonstrations and French film viewings, to deepen the cultural connection between the two towns.
Eugena is a former primary school teacher who took up a recreational course in textiles at Southern Regional College. Whilst on the recreational course, Eugena became aware of the Foundation Art and Design Level 3 Diploma in Newry and has thrown herself into the course wholeheartedly. Whilst always having an interest in art, Eugena never pursued her artistic flair until now. Fancying a change in direction, Eugena took a career break from teaching, and you are now likely to find her at the glass kiln at the College most days fusing glass.
Speaking on her art piece celebrating the twinning of the two towns, Eugena commented “I am honoured that my artwork has been chosen to celebrate the 30th twinning anniversary of Banbridge and Ruelle-sur-Touvre. I love working with fused glass and textile art. When I bring these materials together something new emerges. What a perfect opportunity then to use this fusion to create this celebration piece”.
Chris Hobson, Curriculum Area Manager at Southern Regional College commented “Eugena’s work is breath of fresh air. The way she brings elements together using hard and soft really works. The weaving of elements really makes it a unique piece and something worthy for the 30th Anniversary twinning”.
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Southern Regional College (SRC) held a memorable evening earlier this week at the Graduate Restaurant at Newry East Campus to commemorate a successful year in Hospitality and Tourism.
The department’s staff and students have secured a multitude of awards and accomplishments which include gold, silver, and bronze medals at IFEX, finalist recognition in the FutureChef Competition, Lecturer of the Year and Student Management Potential Award at the Institute of Hospitality (IoH) Awards, and success at the NI Travel and Tourism Awards. The ceremony saw each recipient being recognised and honoured for their achievements.
Michelle Moore, Curriculum Area Manager for Hospitality and Tourism at SRC, served as the master of ceremonies, welcoming esteemed guests Aaron Logan, Northern Ireland Regional Chair of the Institute of Hospitality, Stephen Brothers, Executive Chef, Ballyedmond Castle & Corby Castle, Dean Coppard, Executive Chef, Omniplex Ireland and Eugene Rooney, the Conference & Banqueting Manager from Killeavy Castle Estate. During the ceremony, Eugene delivered an inspiring address to guests, encouraging students to take pride in their accomplishments and embrace opportunities for growth by exploring the vast landscape of hospitality.
Achievements include:
|
Student |
Achievement |
Awarding Body |
|
Annabelle Hughes |
Gold Medal - Risotto Chef of the Year NI & Bronze Medal in Culinary Arts at WorldSkills |
IFEX |
|
TJ Cashel O’Farrell |
Gold Medal- Culinary Ability Award |
IFEX |
|
Ross Smyth |
Silver Medal- Junior Duck |
IFEX |
|
Darragh Byrne |
Silver Medal- Young Seafood Chef of the Year/ Best in Class |
IFEX |
|
Sophie Keenan |
Silver Medal- Contemporary Hot Starter |
IFEX |
|
Rory Kavanagh |
Silver Medal- Junior Poultry |
IFEX |
|
Ben Webber |
Bronze Medal- Junior Duck |
IFEX |
|
Thomas McCrink |
Bronze Medal- Contemporary Dessert |
IFEX |
|
Sam Thompson |
Bronze Medal- Junior Poultry |
IFEX |
|
Lubo Mulkerns |
Finalist at the FutureChef Competition |
Future Chef |
|
Claire Ward |
Student Management Potential Award |
Institute of Hospitality |
|
Sinead Larkin |
Finalist in the NI Travel & Tourism Student of the Year Awards |
NI Travel and Tourism Awards |
|
Staff |
Achievement |
|
|
Keith Campbell |
Lecturer of the Year Award |
Institute of Hospitality |
|
Sinead Boyle |
Runner up for the Lecturer of the Year Award |
Institute of Hospitality |
|
Caroline Chambers |
Institute of Hospitality “Hearts in Hospitality” Award |
Institute of Hospitality |
Matt Turner, Head of Faculty for Professional Services at Southern Regional College commented:
"I'm thrilled to celebrate the College's exceptional achievements in Hospitality and Tourism this year. The dedication and commitment shown by both our staff and students has been truly remarkable. Congratulations to all the winners and finalists; it's incredibly rewarding to see all their efforts being recognised”.
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Isaac Bingham, a past carpentry apprentice from Southern Regional College in Newry is set to take part in WorldSkills in Lyon, an event otherwise known as the Skills Olympics. Isaac has previously seen glory at WorldSkills UK taking home the gold medal and will be keen to capitalise on this success in France.
He is part of Team UK who are all aged under 25 and they will be competing in the competitions which take place from 10 -15 September, in disciplines including cyber security, renewable energy, digital construction, cooking, hairdressing and painting and decorating.
Lindsay Bronte, Organisation Development Manager at Southern Regional College said “I am absolutely delighted that Isaac has been selected to represent the UK in Lyon 2024. Isaac’s talent was evident at an early stage of his studies with the college and that talent combined with his dedication, enthusiasm and commitment to self-improvement has been rewarded with this recognition. I wish him well for what will be an intense period of preparation over the next few months and event itself in September”
WorldSkills UK, a four nations partnership between education, industry and UK governments, is responsible for selecting, mentoring and training Team UK. Pearson, the world’s leading learning company is the official partner of Team UK for WorldSkills Lyon 2024.
WorldSkills Lyon 2024 will host over 1500 young people from 65 countries, who will compete in 62 different skill disciplines.
Ben Blackledge, Chief Executive, WorldSkills UK said: “WorldSkills Lyon 2024 - think Olympic Games – where the prize is the world-class skills that UK employers are crying out for.
“I couldn’t be prouder of Isaac Bingham and all of the exceptional young people in Team UK; they are fantastic role models. Together with Pearson, we will use their participation at WorldSkills to boost the prestige of technical and vocational education, inspiring many more young people to take up technical and vocational training across the UK to help drive investment, jobs and economic growth.”
Max Whitlock OBE, Triple World and Olympic Champion Gymnast, Six-time Olympic Medallist and former BTEC student said "Huge congratulations to the remarkable 'skills Olympians' selected to represent the UK at the upcoming WorldSkills competition. Their passion and hard work will guarantee that UK skills will shine bright on the global stage this September. My support goes out to every member of Team UK as they prepare to take on the world in Lyon!"
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The first cohort of Royal College of Nursing nursing cadets from Northern Ireland have completed their cadet programme. The programme aims to develop young people aged 16 to 25 years for life and give them skills and experiences which would help a future career in health or social care.
A total of 22 students from Southern Regional College undertook their observation placement elements at Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS).
Lee Campbell, Southern Regional College Principal and Chief Executive, said “Southern Regional College is proud to have been able to work alongside the Royal College of Nursing and Northern Ireland Ambulance Service to deliver the Prince of Wales Nursing Cadet Scheme for the first time in Northern Ireland. Students have gained a wealth of theoretical knowledge of the health and social care sector and have been able to experience the vast range of careers available in health care in Northern Ireland. They have had the opportunity to undertake exceptional placement opportunities with the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service, Hazardous Area Response Team and the Patient Care Service. It has been both a rewarding and invaluable experience for our students and we look forward to continuing to provide this opportunity to more students in the future.”
Placement activities included:
Comments from some of the cadets included “The scheme has been amazing, and I hope to see others get the same experience. I've learnt so much from the sessions and developed an understanding of how health and social care functions.” and “The scheme has also made me step out of my comfort zone and I feel a lot more confident in myself now. The support while on the scheme was super-beneficial and Sara helped me along as I had struggled with mental ill health. Thank you so much for the experience.”
Professor Dave Clarke, Head of the RCN Prince of Wales Nursing Cadet Scheme, Royal College of Nursing said “We were so excited to launch the scheme in Northen Ireland and were overwhelmed by the response to our call for students. We are all very proud of the cadets who were successful in applying for the course and who have gone on to complete the programme.
“The RCN Prince of Wales Nursing Cadets scheme is making a real difference to the lives of young people, opening doors to careers in health care and teaching vital skills for their future. “
The RCN aims to have further cohorts in Northern Ireland in the future.
Michael Bloomfield, NIAS Chief Executive added “The passion of the young people was evident for all to see. NIAS staff who facilitated the various on-site visits and placements across the Service couldn’t have spoken more highly about the cadets. They displayed enthusiasm and a great willingness to learn about the work of the ambulance service with a number of them stating that, following their visits, they would really consider a career with us.”
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