Keith Sunderland
Registrar, Engineers Ireland
A new question has emerged when choosing a career: Will this job exist in five or ten years? Rapid advances in AI, technology and automation should be a serious consideration for students.
An engineering qualification offers a pathway to a sustainable and rewarding career, underpinned by versatile skills that help professionals to navigate changing industries and economic cycles.
Ireland is facing a critical shortage of engineers. Over 22,300 additional engineers will be needed over the next decade, and several engineering roles are on the national Critical Skills Occupations List. The Future of Jobs report 2025 listed engineering roles in the top 15 fastest-growing jobs. Engineering graduates aren’t just employable; they ‘re essential to delivering the infrastructure and technology needed to power the future.
An Irish engineering qualification is a passport to a global career
Strong rewards
Engineering offers financial rewards at every career stage. According to the Engineers Ireland 2026 Salary Survey, Graduate engineers can expect to earn €39,000, on average. Those with 6-10 years of experience earn €59,000, on average, with Chartered Engineers earning €64,000.
Engineering directors can earn between €100,000 and €135,000. An Engineers Ireland Registered Professional Title like Chartered Engineer (CEng) and Fellow (FIEI) can boost salaries by between €5,000 and €30,000 annually, depending on the sector and seniority.
Going global
An Irish engineering qualification is a passport to a global career. International accords and agreements ensure the global relevance of an engineering education, while ensuring qualifications are globally recognised.
Many third-level institutions offer engineering qualifications accredited by Engineers Ireland, including all universities in Ireland. Most universities offer programmes with a common first year as well as specialist engineering courses.
An apprenticeship is a programme that combines learning in the workplace with learning in an educational institution or training centre. They’re a great, non-traditional route for those who value hands-on experience from the start of their learning.
QQI-FET Level 5 and 6 qualifications (commonly referred to as PLC courses) and tertiary degree programmes (co-developed with Educational Training Boards and Higher Education Institutions) provide alternative pathways to a bachelor’s degree, enabling students to progress seamlessly from further to higher education and ultimately achieve a Level 7 or 8 qualification.
