Combilift and OEM Engineering Apprenticeship welcome local students for Manufacturing Day Ireland

On Friday, 2 October 2026, Combilift hosted a special Manufacturing Day Ireland event in partnership with the OEM Engineering Apprenticeship, welcoming over 100 students from secondary schools across County Monaghan to explore engineering and learn more about the opportunities available within the sector.

Students from St Macartan’s College, Coláiste Oiriall, Collegiate School, Monaghan and Inver College, Carrickmacross attended the event, where they took part in a range of interactive, hands-on activities designed to give them practical experience of engineering.

The OEM Engineering Apprenticeship team were delighted to meet the students throughout the morning, demonstrating engineering activities and giving them an opportunity to discover more about engineering as a potential career path.

Martin McVicar, Founder of Combilift, welcomed the Ibec visit on Manufacturing Day Ireland, highlighting the importance and strength of manufacturing in Monaghan. He noted that continued collaboration between industry leaders and national bodies is essential to supporting innovation, skills development and long-term growth across the region.

Shane Beirne, Head of Public Sector at Ibec, spoke about the importance of giving young people the opportunity to experience engineering first-hand:

“It’s vital for companies like Combilift to open their doors for days like this, giving students the chance to experience engineering in real life. As the saying goes, see it to be it.”

The event provided students with an opportunity to see engineering in a practical setting, engage directly with those working in the sector and learn more about the pathways available to them.

The OEM Engineering Apprenticeship team were delighted to be involved in the event and would like to thank Combilift for hosting and all of the schools and students who took part.

Click the link below for more information on the OEM Engineering Technician Apprenticeship.