TY students dive in to science at the Marine Institute

The 22 TY students along with Catherine Quigley-Johnston, HR Manager on their 1st day at the Marine Institute. The Marine Institute has welcomed 22 transition year students to its fifth annual TY Training week (25th February – 1st March 2019) at the Marine Institute's headquarters in Oranmore, Galway. Students from counties Galway, Mayo, Clare, Roscommon, Dublin and, Waterford, will engage in a range of activities to experience what it is like to work in the marine sector.

The TY students will shadow scientists and staff at the Marine Institute, learning about marine science, technology and related disciplines. Students will engage in a range of presentations and interactive activities related to fisheries science, marine chemistry, seabed mapping, food safety, research vessel operations, maritime development, oceanography and marine climate, data, applications development, teambuilding and communications.

The need for education and training programmes to maintain and develop skilled professionals in the marine sector is highlighted in Ireland's national marine plan, Harnessing Our Ocean Wealth. Encouraging a new generation to pursue marine and maritime careers, is an initiative of the Marine Institute's Strategic Plan 2018-2022: Building Ocean Knowledge, Delivering Ocean Services.Eabha Mevlin - Coláiste na Coiribe, Knocknacarra, Galway, Grace Moran, Leah Sweeney & Clodagh Moran from The Sacred Heart Secondary school, Westport, Co. Mayo at the INFOMAR AR sandbox, a scientific educational tool to help users to explore the importance of topography, contouring, geology and seabed mapping.

Dr Peter Heffernan, CEO of the Marine Institute said, "Increasing student's knowledge on the importance of our marine resource, is key to supporting Ireland's ocean economy, where highly skilled professionals are needed in the future. Our TY Week Programme aims to inspire a new generation of marine professionals, and provides an insight into the diverse career opportunities on offer in Ireland's marine sector."

Catherine Quigley-Johnston, HR Manager Marine Institute added, "With the TY Week programme at full capacity for 2019, it is great to see such a high level of interest in the marine and engagement with STEM related activities for young adults at his state of their education. Marine Institute staff look forward annually to this important opportunity to share their passion for science and the marine and their areas of expertise."

Please note that all places for the 2019 programme have been allocated. Transition year students from any school in Ireland are welcome to apply for this week-long, full-time work experience opportunity at the Marine Institute for 2020. Further details on the application process will be available later this year.

For more pictures of the TY Week click here.

ENDS