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Kerry ETB, AWS and Sumitomo Electric staff members Ioseph Nestor, Kerry College; Con O’Sullivan, Kerry College; Jim Finucane, Chairperson Kerry ETB Board; Pat Stitcher, Sumitomo Electric Lightwave; Patryk Galardziak, Sumitomo Electric Lightwave; Dwayne Holst, Sumitomo Electric Lightwave; Allyson Eastman, Amazon Web Services (AWS); Joanne Reynolds, Amazon Web Services (AWS); Lauren Deloatch, Sumitomo Electric Lightwave and Quentin Tricard, Sumitomo Electric Lightwave.
KERRY College, in partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Sumitomo Electric Lightwave, held a two-day fibre splicing workshop as part of the Kerry College Open Week 2024.
The workshop, held at the Monavalley Campus, catered to both members of the public and current learners engaged in various courses and apprenticeships.
The workshops offered an opportunity to learn about the skill needs and career prospects in these dynamic and growing sectors. The response to the workshop was overwhelmingly positive, with a capacity attendance of 35 learners.
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Participants were predominantly from the Kerry region, but some learners travelled from as far as Donegal to attend. Additionally, several learners enrolled from local employers, reflecting the workshop’s relevance to regional industry needs.
Throughout the two-day event, participants delved into the fundamentals of fibre optic installation, repair, and splicing. They also gained hands-on experience by practicing real-world deployment techniques, ranging from traditional hand tools to cutting-edge automated fusion splicing technology.
Kerry College Monavalley Campus Manager Mr. Con O’Sullivan noted that “We are delighted to have had the opportunity to work with AWS and Sumitomo Electric Lightwave, and collaborate with them to deliver this unique learning and development opportunity for Kerry.” Mr. O’Sullivan added that “This is a fantastic programme for those already in the industry who want to develop their skills and knowledge even further, but also for potential career changers who are interested in learning more about this exciting and growing industry.”
Upon completion of the workshop, Kerry College Monavalley Campus hosted a certificate ceremony, where Kerry ETB Board Chairperson, Cllr. Jim Finucane, awarded AWS Certificates of Completion to all successful learners. Councillor Finucane welcomed the initiative, and commended AWS, Sumitomo Electric Lightwave and Kerry College for ‘‘delivering relevant, in-demand education and training provision to meet industry needs.’ ‘
The ceremony was graced by guests, including Joanne Reynolds, Community Engagement Manager at AWS; Con O’Sullivan, Monavalley Campus Manager; Allyson Eastman, Economic and Workforce Development Manager at AWS; and Lauren Deloatch, Project Manager at Sumitomo Electric Lightwave.
This collaborative effort between Kerry College, AWS, and Sumitomo Electric Lightwave underscores a commitment to fostering talent, promoting industry-aligned education, and empowering learners with practical skills essential for future career success.
For more information about Kerry College and its collaborative initiatives, visit www.kerrycollege.ie
