Name:
Nora Doyle
Job title:
Engineering Coordinator
Details of current role:
I am responsible for analysing the production programme and reviewing available capacity across the teams. This visibility across all processes enables me to plan the workload ensuring maximum efficiency and productivity whilst identifying any potential issues that will need resolved to make sure work is delivered on time.
I spend a lot of time reviewing data which helps me to make recommendations as to how we can improve processes and efficiencies.
Are there any essential qualifications/skills necessary for your role?
I have a Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Ulster University and would say the most essential formal qualification is an Engineering Degree. Beyond that, good organisational and communication skills are definitely necessary.
What’s the best thing about your job?
The best feeling is when the plans and schedules I have spent a long time coordinating run smoothly. It’s a great feeling knowing you played a significant role in getting projects completed on time for our customers and everyone is happy.
I am however a perfectionist so it can be frustrating when circumstances change and an entire schedule has to be reviewed, but we have a great team and that makes it easier for solutions to be found and implemented quickly.
What would you want other people know about working at Mallaghan?
Working at Mallaghan is hands-on and fast-paced with lots of encouragement to learn and improve at every opportunity. I feel very lucky as this was my first job after University and I have been able to progress my career quickly in comparison to a lot of other graduate roles.
What are your hobbies outside of work?
My hobbies include cooking, spending time with my family and walking my golden retriever Teddy. People probably won’t know that I also really enjoy line-dancing!
Do you feel as though there are opportunities available to females within a predominantly male manufacturing industry?
It can be hard for girls to gain the same experience as boys within the industry, which makes me even prouder to represent women in engineering. This being said, there are a lot more opportunities for girls within engineering and manufacturing now than there were before. The most important thing is encouraging younger girls to be confident and put themselves forward for the opportunities they want, as this will benefit them later in their careers.
STEM education focuses on building science, technology, engineering and mathematics skills amongst young people. How does Mallaghan help to promote STEM subjects within the local community?
Each year we partner with Royal School Dungannon for students to take part in two STEM-focused projects. This allows the students to manage a project from start to finish and we visit the school to provide guidance along the way.
We also visit primary schools to encourage an interest in STEM subjects from an early age. I was recently nominated for a Roger Knight Award which recognises engineers who are inspiring pupils to consider a future in the industry. I really enjoy this work as the children and the questions they ask are so honest, it’s incredible to see our work through a child’s eyes again.
What advice would you give to someone looking to follow your career path?
My advice would be to get as much experience as you can, work hard and keep working hard.
