Spotlight on EngTech: Declan McGuckin

This time, we’re sharing the story of Declan McGuckin, recipient of our 2024 EngTech Grant and Network Engineer at Firmus Energy Networks.

IGEM’s Scholarships, Grants and Awards are here to support those on their educational journey and beyond. The EngTech Grant recognises those who are striving to make a difference in the industry and rewards them for their hard work and dedication.

Declan McGuckin received the EngTech Grant in 2024 which is supporting his career development with a one-off award of £1,500. Sharing the benefits of the grant, Declan said: “IGEM is a respected institution within the industry and upon receiving the grant, I have seen it as a reward for my commitment and continued development within the industry.

“Being granted the funds has given me a confidence boost which has encouraged me to pursue my academic and career goals with greater determination. The grant has allowed me to gain a broader view of the industry as a whole and how important this industry is in reaching our net zero targets.”

Declan has since used the grant towards an online course covering biogas. He plans to continue to the next level of the course and look at courses with universities to help boost his membership grades within IGEM.

Pursuing his dreams has always been something Declan has strived for since studying at university. After a stint working in hospitality, Declan then decided to join Firmus Energy Networks in 2010 as a customer service advisor.

After he saw the potential to develop himself and crack the engineering field, he laid his foundations by completing a health and safety course and later became a technical support officer.

Furthering his skills, he then embarked on a network engineer development programme whilst completing a part-time foundation degree course in civil and environmental engineering. This led him to assume the network engineer position he holds today.

Along the way, he chose to join IGEM to strengthen his industry involvement and connect with new people. Declain said: “IGEM provides me with valuable professional development opportunities, access to industry knowledge and a network of likeminded professionals.

“It has given me access to a wealth of technical documents, publications and research. This information has been crucial to stay informed about best practices, innovations in the industry and regulatory changes.”

He encourages any Engineering Technicians passionate about the sector to apply for the grant as it acts as a stepping stone for your career. “It gives you exposure to other like-minded professionals and is great tool to help you achieve your career goals and gain some valuable knowledge from experts along the way,” he said.

Applying for the EngTech grant is simple, all you have to do is visit our website to fill in the application form with supporting documentation and let our Panel make the all-important decision.

Applications close on 31 May so don’t hesitate to get involved.