Louise O’Flanagan
Head of Engineering and Asset Management, EirGrid
Learn how a degree in engineering offers a wide range of career opportunities in the electricity sector and beyond.
The electricity system in Ireland is transforming as a result of the growing integration of renewable energy and the implementation of broader technological innovation. At the heart of this work are engineers, including Louise O’Flanagan, Head of Engineering and Asset Management with EirGrid.
Louise believes the next generation of engineers could help Ireland achieve its world-leading potential in harnessing power from renewable energy. She says: “We know that significant development of the electricity grid is required if we are to achieve our ambitions. We need the right skills.”
Vast opportunities with an engineering degree
Louise is encouraging aspiring and newly qualified engineers to consider a career in the energy industry. “Engineering is a broad career path, it’s a really good foundation. It’s a career that can open up so many opportunities, in Ireland or indeed to travel the world. What I thought an engineer did when I was 18 is certainly not what I thought I’d be doing now, and I really enjoy my work.”
It was a combination of enjoying subjects such as maths and sciences, coupled with an interest in making a positive impact on the environment, that encouraged Louise to consider the profession.
After completing an engineering degree at University College Dublin, she went on to study for a Master’s in Water and Environmental Engineering. After her studies, Louise moved into multidisciplinary engineering consultancy, visiting the length and breadth of Ireland, with stints in the UK.
Young people showing an interest
in the field is very much welcomed.
New engineering opportunities in offshore
Louise holds an Engineers Ireland Fellowship, the most prestigious and senior professional title within the engineering profession. Now, she is at the helm of developing new grid infrastructure for the electricity network in EirGrid to help facilitate offshore wind. “Offshore wind is a new industry for Ireland. New skill sets are needed, there’s new expertise, and we’re currently recruiting to build up that team in EirGrid,” she says.
According to Louise, there’s also plenty of work that has to be done onshore, not just in terms of getting renewables onto the grid but reinforcing the transmission system to get the power from where it’s generated to where it’s used. “Given the need for skilled engineers to help Ireland on its path to net zero carbon emissions by 2050, young people showing an interest in the field is very much welcomed,” she concludes.
