#GradStories Aisling Callaghan, Asset Planning Graduate, Uisce Éireann.

My name is Aisling Callaghan. I’m a graduate in Asset Planning with Uisce Éireann.

What does a typical day look like for you?

A typical day for me – so Uisce Éireann provides 3 rotations. I’m on my 1st rotation at the minute within the Wastewater Asset Planning Team. This is within the Asset Management and Sustainability Department. A typical day for me involves working along with other team members of the Asset Planning Team, attending meetings both in person and online. This is where I gather information and feedback relevant to the work that I am doing. At the moment, I’m currently working on drafting a subsection on water quality which is to go into a larger report. The main aim of this report is to reduce environmental pollution and to ensure compliance with operational standards. In order to do this, I gather information from field surveys and assessments that have already been conducted. I analyse water quality data that has been collected. A main part of the job is working as part of a team whether that be members of my own team or consultancy companies and contractors. This ensures that the work is carried out to a high standard.

What advice would you have for a student or graduate looking to purse this career?

For other graduates looking to purse this career, I would highly recommend it. Uisce Éireann provides a large number of opportunities and definitely plenty of support for graduates to further progress in their careers. With multiple rotations, there is a wide range of opportunities available to gain great experience in different areas of the company. This can help develop and shape graduates both personally and professionally. As someone who has recently graduated, it is a great opportunity to network and meet other individuals with years of knowledge and experience in the areas that you’re working in. In terms of advice for other graduates, I would say don’t be afraid if you don’t know something. You are here to learn so just ask plenty of questions along the way.

What do you love most about your job?

For me, what I’ve really loved about the job, from the day I’ve started – everyone has been really welcoming and friendly. I’m really lucky that the team that I’m in has been very supportive. Any questions I have, they’re there to answer them and any help needed, they’re there to provide the help. As a graduate, you’re really made feel that you're a valued member of the team. I really enjoy the work that Uisce Éireann carries out. Over the past decade, the company has really changed the water services industry within Ireland with ambitious investment plans as well as a highly skilled, diverse, cultural workforce. The work that Uisce Éireann carries out makes a great, positive impact on both people and the environment. I just think it’s a great time to join Uisce Éireann on this exciting journey.