We were very pleased to have Michael Hand, Birr-native and technology student at St Brendan’s Community School, join us last year for a week-long placement where he combined his passion for Leinster Rugby with his keen interest in manufacturing

We were very pleased to have Michael Hand, Birr-native and technology student at St Brendan’s Community School, join us last year for a week-long placement where he combined his passion for Leinster Rugby with his keen interest in manufacturing. During his placement, Michael, who currently plays for the Leinster Under-18 Club squad, was given a full insight into the inner workings of our manufacturing plant and the opportunity to lead his own project which involved the design and production of a unique Leinster Rugby branded keychain.

 Michael also received top tips on manufacturing design and engineering from Stephen Grant who said, “Michael had great enthusiasm and was an absolute pleasure to have on site with us during his work placement. Our placements aim to give the students a real flavour of every aspect involved in the manufacturing process of our efficient heating appliances, with an important focus on health and safety, research and design, and our guidelines on producing products of the highest quality.

 “We pride ourselves not only on being the leading employer in the area, but also on our commitment to supporting and developing the knowledge of young adults through the likes of work placements and educational school visits.  We wish Michael all the best with his studies and his involvement with Leinster Rugby – perhaps we will see his unique creations hit the shops in years to come!”, added Stephen.

 In taking ownership of his project, Michael had the opportunity to work alongside the Grant team in some of the key areas of the factory including the in-house print room, quality control department, and the research and development, to name a few.

 Speaking about his placement, Michael Hand said, “I’m really grateful to have been given this opportunity to work alongside the team at Grant during my placement. It was great to get a ‘behind-the-scenes’ experience of the manufacturing process which involves a lot of hard work, time, and attention to detail. In particular, I really enjoyed leading my own project as I was able to see my idea of a Leinster Rugby keyring develop from just an outline on paper right through the final end product. Grant is definitely a great place for other students like me to get a taste of the manufacturing industry!”

 For more information on placement opportunities with us please contact 057 912 0089.