Stevie Donnelly, Energy Manager and Compliance and Procedure Officer, Dublin Airport Authority (DAA)

Job Energy Manager and Compliance and Procedure Officer
Employer Dublin Airport Authority (DAA)
Education BSc Transport Engineering and Technology (2007); MSc Energy Management, Dublin Institute of Technology (2010)

The airline industry has always been of interest to me, so I decided to study Transport Engineering and Technology at DIT. My undergraduate degree gave me the grounding I needed to confirm my enthusiasm for the airline industry. After I graduated, I decided to take a position working as a warehouse support administrator for Elvery Sports. I gained experience in distribution management, supplier relationships and ultimately learned what it takes to run a warehouse. Although not an airport orientated job, the skills I acquired while working there are still relevant to my current role working with the Dublin Airport Authority.

My Current Role

Later, I decided to return to college and pursue an MSc in Energy Management, during which I applied for the DAA graduate programme. I was successful in the interview process and accepted a place on the programme. I was originally assigned to the operations planning department. Although this was not my first choice, I knew the opportunity to transfer into the engineering department was a possibility, and given my educational background, I was eventually transferred into the asset care energy department. To me, this was a major milestone in my career, as my hard work had finally paid off and I had transitioned into a role that I originally hoped for.

My position as an Energy Manger primarily involves installing energy management systems for the airport. I am responsible for verifying the airports Co2 emissions to the EU emission trading scheme, managing monthly oil reports, working on renewable energy projects and am currently working to get the airport ISO (International Organisation for Standardisation) accredited.

On top of a technical skill, my job role demands a number of soft skills. Demonstrating problem-solving skills, highly developed communication skills, the ability to work as part of team effectively and strong analytical skills, is essential to my current position. I believe my postgraduate degree and my previous work experience have equipped me with these additional traits.

Advice to Graduates

Taking initiative is crucial to your career path. If looking to get a “foot-in-the-door” in the transport and logistics industry, or any industry for that matter, take control and put yourself out there; go to industry seminars and network. It is also important to stay active when looking for work. Job hunting can be a long and rigorous process, but it is important to stay in touch with industry developments, and continue to improve your skill set.

For students in final year, don’t wait until after you graduate to look for a job. Many companies will begin their interview processes before you finish; therefore look early if you’d like to secure a job immediately after you graduate. On a final note, don’t restrict yourself to one title. Be open and willing to accept a position you had not originally had in mind; it may be a stepping stone to your dream job.