Mary Wyse
Data Product Development and Analytics Manager, daa
Caoimhe McQuillan
Asset Management Energy Systems Lead, daa
If you desire a dynamic STEM career, the opportunity and support could be there for the taking at Dublin Airport.
daa offers STEM opportunities for women across technology, infrastructure, finance and operations. From graduate programmes, apprenticeships and internships to roles for experienced professionals, the company provides multiple entry points into rewarding STEM careers.
As part of its move towards skills‑based hiring, daa focuses on the skills that matter most for success, opening opportunities to a more diverse talent pool.
According to Keavy Gorman, Talent Director at daa, women in STEM benefit from accelerated development through exposure to challenging, high‑impact assignments. This is supported by initiatives like mentoring and targeted development programmes.
Mary Wyse and Caoimhe McQuillan, who both work in STEM roles at Dublin Airport, reveal how they started their careers.
Can you describe your STEM journey?
Caoimhe: I started as an electrician at daa — the company that supported my Electrical Engineering degree — and then became a planner within the Asset Management department.
Currently, I am part of a team that delivers energy projects across Dublin Airport to meet our 2030 Carbon targets, and to upgrade and maintain assets, including electric vehicles, lighting and solar farm assets.
Mary: I loved science and problem-solving, and studied biotechnology as an undergraduate. After college, I worked in airport retail, ending up in management.
I was encouraged into retail analytics, which started my STEM career. I studied a post-graduate degree in Applied Statistics, which solidified my love for what I do. I currently manage a team that helps the company use insights and analysis in decision-making.
If you think you want a career in engineering, trades or construction, my advice is: Give it a go
Which opportunities supported your progression?
Mary: I’ve received a lot of support through daa, including access to different training programmes, and the company also supported my post-graduate degree. I’ve also had mentoring support from colleagues. I wouldn’t be where I am without them, so now I mentor and support others.
How do you see the role of women in STEM evolving?
Caoimhe: I believe more women will join apprenticeship programmes. We’re already seeing the benefit of earning while learning technical and life skills.
What advice would you offer women considering a STEM career?
Mary: After college, I didn’t think I would end up working in analytics, but I took the opportunity. So, don’t be afraid to pivot or change your career plan.
Caoimhe: If you enjoy applying theory to practice, it’s a wonderful, rewarding option. If you think you want a career in engineering, trades or construction, my advice is: Give it a go. You won’t know until you try.
