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Ratoath College

Ratoath College

Mol an Óige agus Tiocfaidh Sí

Ian Marron

Name

Ian Marron

Age

22

Class of

2013

LC Points:

545

3rd Level Course:

Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, TCD
Why did you choose this course?

I enjoyed subjects like physics, DCG and maths but I wasn’t sure what direction I wanted to take after I finished school. Engineering allowed me to continue learning about these areas, but also to develop very important skills for problem solving and working as part of a team. The degree is very broad and you still have a lot of options once you finish.

How long is/was the course? 

Five years for a master’s degree.

Current role / employment: 

I have just finished my thesis for my master’s research project. I designed, built and tested a wearable device for horses which tracks their movement and detects signs of injury.

Best career achievement to date: 

I was selected to complete a year long project with the German company Daimler (owners of Mercedes trucks) as part of a team of students from Ireland and Germany. Together, we designed and built a prototype machine that can quickly load pallets on to trucks at warehouses. I got to travel to Porto, Berlin and Munich for the project and got some really valuable experience along the way. I also had the opportunity to present our work at Stanford University in California.

Have you any advice for our current students? 

While it’s important to work hard, it’s just as important to enjoy your time in school. Also try to stay involved in activities outside school like sport, music or any other interests you have.

Best memory of Ratoath College:  I really enjoyed Transition Year. It’s definitely a great opportunity to try new things and become a more rounded person without the pressure of exams. It’s also where I got to know a lot of the people who are still my really good friends today.