Eimear is an Environmental Scientist on our team. After working in the medical devices industry for over 20 years, she made a significant career shift into environmental science, proving its never too late to change careers. Eimear discusses how MKO has supported her professional development and how her previous experience has been invaluable to her current role.
Can you share a little about your background?
My career began with a degree in Experimental Physics from the University of Galway and a Higher Diploma in Software Development and Design. My career started as a Software Validation Engineer in the Medical Device industry, with roles in Galway, Tullamore, and internationally in Australia and the United States. In this field, I worked in sterile environments, testing machinery to ensure the correct manufacturing of medical devices like heart valves and stents. While I loved my job, after nearly 20 years, I decided to change careers, moving from the sterile lab to the field, swapping my white coat for a high-vis vest and wellies.
What sparked your interest to make a career change into Environmental Science, and how did you decide to pursue a career in this field?
I spent some time considering the next phase of my careers. I always had an interest in the environment and felt it was something I wanted to contribute to. I thought about how I could move into such a different field, coming from medical device and the solution was to go back to college. I was lucky enough to be able to give up my job and went back to college full time, completing a Masters in Environment Science at the UCD.
What brought you to MKO?
MKO is a diverse large company, dealing with a huge range of environmental sectors, as well as having different teams in the company. I enjoy working as part of a team and working on varied projects, so I thought MKO would be a great fit. While working in conjunction with the other teams, such as Landscape and Visual, Planning, Ecology, Acoustics and Water, I have learned so much that I feel I might not have been exposed to elsewhere. The company’s long-standing reputation, since its founding in 2008, also gave me confidence in my decision.
Since changing careers and joining MKO, how has the company supported your professional development?
When I started at MKO, I was given a training plan that my manager and I regularly reviewed. MKO Academy offers a vast array of resources. Beyond these formal supports, there is excellent on-the-job training available. With over 200 people, the collective experience is immense, and colleagues are always willing to share their knowledge. The culture here is incredibly helpful and approachable. From the Monday morning meetings where weekly news is shared, bi weekly knowledge shares on different topics and presentations within our own team on our weekly meeting. Senior team members are dedicated mentors, focused on developing the skills of more junior members. There are plenty of how to videos and also a knowledge hub for non-technical information. Everything from IT questions to People and Culture. Knowledge does not get lost, its stored and ready for everyone to use. MKO also supports professional membership and attendance at conferences.
What skills or experiences from your previous career have you found transferable to your current role at MKO?
A lot of skills and experiences from my previous career, and life in general have been great in adjusting to my new role. Previously, I did a lot of report writing and it is something I do most days now. Dealing with customers and colleagues in a professional environment has made the adjustment easier. Knowing that asking for help is not a weakness and is a good way to learn. Additionally, my ability to problem-solve, manage deadlines and budgets, and take ownership of tasks has made my career transition much more straightforward.
For other people considering changing careers/joining MKO, what advice would you offer?
A job is a huge part of our lives, so if you’re thinking a different career would make you happier, I encourage you to seriously consider it. I would think about all the different parts of a job that you enjoy and what would be a good fit for you. Consider whether you need to re-skill and if it’s feasible, and make sure you have the necessary support to do it. Whatever your background, all experience is valuable.
For those considering joining MKO, I recommend checking out our services, there are a diverse range of roles and fantastic opportunities. Our social media platforms also provide a glimpse into our company culture. MKO offers genuine support for real life through contemporary People and Culture procedures, including great flexibility, hybrid and remote working, and options for reduced working hours to accommodate family commitments. We have colleagues who work remotely from abroad while visiting their families. I encourage you to get in touch for a conversation, as MKO is open to finding a solution that works for you.
What kind of training and mentorship opportunities are available at MKO that have directly impacted your professional journey?
I started my career at MKO right out of college as a Graduate Environmental Scientist, with no prior experience in the field. Within a year I progressed to a Practitioner Environmental Scientist. MKO offers huge opportunities for career progression, with a clear career path on how to progress from one grade to the next. Its up to you where you want your career to go and MKO will assist as much as possible. Through regular meetings, my manager and I set goals and focus on my development. I’ve been given opportunities to tap into strengths from my previous career, and managers really listen to what you want to do and try to provide those opportunities.
What excites you most about the variety of projects you get to work on at MKO?
Working on the Environment team, I have the opportunity to work on a diverse range of projects. In my two years at MKO, my work has included Strategic Environmental Assessments and fieldwork such as water sampling. I’ve also written reports for clients to submit to County Councils, created maps using GIS software, and worked on Environmental Impact Assessments for Waste Water Treatment plants, flood relief schemes, and quarries, in addition to dealing with waste licenses and compliance. There is such a range of projects available, its great to work on a large long term project, developing relationships with other teams and clients, really getting in deep into the project. I also appreciate the sense of accomplishment that comes from completing smaller, short-term projects. Ultimately, contributing to the solution of environmental challenges is a fulfilling experience.