Kerry Education and Training Board (Kerry ETB) and Limerick Clare Education and Training Board (Limerick and Clare ETB) celebrated the graduation of their apprentices on Friday, November 3rd, at the Radisson Blu Hotel and Spa in Limerick. Kerry ETB hosted the inaugural post-COVID event in 2022.
Chief Executive of Iarnród Éireann – Irish Rail, Jim Meade, delivered an inspiring keynote address, drawing from his personal journey as an apprentice fitter in 1979, progressing to the role of Chief Executive, shared valuable insights with the graduates. He emphasised that their graduation was just the beginning and encouraged them to “set themselves a challenge, you will either succeed, or you will learn from it.”
Niall Collins TD, Minister for Skills, and Further Education joined George O’Callaghan, CEO of Limerick Clare ETB, and Colm McEvoy, CEO of Kerry ETB, to present the National Apprenticeship Awards. The Kerry ETB graduates were honoured in various fields, including electrical, metal fabrication, hairdressing, plumbing, and more.
In 2023, 363 Kerry, Clare and Limerick apprentices graduated across 23 different apprenticeships from Aircraft Mechanics to Hairdressing. In Ireland, there are of 73 apprenticeships available across a range of traditional and high-tech sectors where graduates can qualify with a QQI Level 5 up to QQI Level 10 Doctoral Apprenticeship.
Kerry ETB apprentice James Culhane’s remarkable journey is one that stood out on the day. James began his apprenticeship at the age of 40, highlighting that learning and growth are not bound by age. Embarking on a career change later in life, James embraced the challenges of Stonecutting and Stonemasonry with determination and passion. As a Stonecutting and Stonemasonry Apprentice with the Office of Public Works his story added a unique and inspiring chapter to the apprenticeship graduation ceremony.
James Culhane’s story underscores the inclusivity and accessibility of apprenticeship programmes, emphasising that individuals can pursue their passions through education and skill development at any stage of life. His achievement serves as a testament to the belief that it is never too late to follow your dreams and excel in a chosen field.
The success of the joint apprenticeship graduation reflects the commitment of both ETBs to providing a platform for skilled craftspeople and fostering a bright future for apprenticeship programmes in Ireland.
