Following her graduation from secondary school, Kelsey began her Logistics Associate Apprenticeship with Joe McGovern Transport in Bawnboy, Co Cavan, and here is the story of how she embarked on a career in logistics:
”My name is Kelsey and I’m in my 20s. In my senior year of secondary school, like many students, I was faced with the difficult decision of determining my future career path.
Being unsure of what to do next and knowing that full-time college was not my first choice, I reached out to a career guidance teacher Orla Maguire, whom I had great trust to steer me in the right direction.
My strengths, interests, and abilities were carefully considered, and after many conversations and aptitude tests, it was determined that the logistics profession would be the most suitable for my skill set.
I didn’t know what logistics was and what careers were associated with it when I first heard of it, but after Orla explained it I immediately knew it was the right career path for me! She recommended that I take the Logistics Associate Apprenticeship because it would provide me with the opportunity to study at a university, gain work experience, and develop workplace skills, and, after two years, obtain relevant industry-recognised qualifications while earning a full-time salary.
So, I began searching for an employer who would accommodate my apprenticeship, and two weeks after completing the leaving certificate examinations, I was offered a position with Joe McGovern Transport in Bawnboy, County Cavan.
The company also decided to become involved in the apprenticeship program for the first time and offered me this opportunity without hesitation.
My apprenticeship journey and career in logistics and supply chain began with the company in July 2022, and I have never looked back or questioned my decision ever since.
Since the beginning of my journey, the company has been extremely supportive and couldn’t have done a better job.
My LAA apprenticeship involves attending classes at TU Dublin City Campus once a week and working in the company where I receive training in various business aspects while being guided by my mentor Mary McGowern.
Through the apprenticeship, I will gain skills, acquire knowledge, and gain work experience that will prepare me for a successful career in this dynamic and exciting sector
Many benefits come with an apprenticeship and work in the industry, such as:
- Getting hands-on experience
- Earning while learning
- As a state-funded program, there are no tuition fees
- Living locally means no student accommodation fees
- Acquiring skills relevant to the industry
- Mentorship from an industry expert
- Developing a strong work ethic
- Attaining professional certifications and internationally recognised qualifications at level 6 – Higher Certificate in Logistics
- Developing skills and acquiring knowledge through academic studies and in-the-field practical experience
- A supportive work environment and a company that nurtures young talent
- The industry offers career advancement opportunities and a variety of career paths. There is also a high level of job security in the logistics industry.
I love my apprenticeship and everything it entails.
If I hadn’t sought out my Career Guidance teacher for help, I wouldn’t have explored apprenticeships. As so many apprenticeships are now available in various fields in Ireland, I strongly recommend and encourage students who will be sitting for their leaving cert exams in June 2024 and are not certain of their next step to explore the possibility of becoming an apprentice.
Taking part in an apprenticeship can provide you with many opportunities in the future. It offers structured practical training with education, making it a rewarding choice for those who prefer hands-on learning and wish to excel in specific industries.
I am exceptionally proud of winning the Apprenticeship of the Year award for the logistics sector. It is an outstanding accomplishment and I am extremely grateful to all who made it possible and supported me throughout the apprenticeship journey, especially my family and friends, the entire team at Joe McGovern Transport, Orla Maguire, my Career Guidance Teacher, who initiated my amazing journey, and the LAA lecturers at TU Dublin City Campus. I would also like to acknowledge Anna Gorecka, a woman who is outstanding and devoted to helping others find their paths in the logistics industry.
My nomination as apprentice of the year was something I never expected, and I am extremely grateful to Joe McGovern Transport for offering me so many opportunities. I am looking forward to what the future holds.
By sharing my story and journey, I hope to inspire other young people to consider pursuing a career in logistics and Logistics Associates Apprenticeships.”
