Anne Moore
Environmental manager for Gas Networks Ireland
Anne Moore never thought she would end up as the Environmental Manager for Gas Networks Ireland…
After eight years with an innovative engineering company, she enthuses about her exciting job: “I love my role. Every day provides new challenges!”
Blessed with encouragement and support from her parents and teachers to study science and maths, she believes this provided the foundation for her fascinating career.
“I was lucky to come from a home that placed huge emphasis on maths in school. My father had a love of maths and helped me and my siblings all the way through school.
“I also had female chemistry and biology teachers who were passionate about their subjects, who influenced me to pursue a university degree in Science.
“I was lucky to be in a school with a strong emphasis on the STEM subjects – Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.
“I would love it if all girls had the same access to STEM subjects in school. I think this is key to women entering the STEM path. I advise girls considering a STEM career to ‘Go for it!’ It’s a wonderful career, both challenging and enjoyable.”
The fear of being ‘stuck for life’
Anne believes there is an interesting variety of jobs in the field for women. She says: “There is a perception that when you pick a college course, you will be stuck in that area for life. But in reality you can choose your own career path. There are endless opportunities in the STEM area.”
After graduating from University College Dublin with an Honours Chemistry Degree in 1998, Anne worked for the pharmaceutical industry, then as a Health, Safety and Environment consultant across everything from the food industry to steel works. She then joined Gas Networks Ireland, starting as a safety engineer.
My employer is supportive; very open to new ideas and supporting innovation.
“Fortunately I haven’t faced obstacles to advancement because my employer is supportive both personally and professionally; very open to new ideas and supporting innovation.”
Environmental responsibility
Anne explains that Ireland is under pressure from the EU to meet environmental targets. Failure to meet targets could lead to significant fines and harm Ireland’s reputation.
Using the STEM industry to help save the environment.
She adds: “Homeowners and businesses have become more conscious of the need to reduce energy use and ensure energy comes from cleaner sources. Our organisation is looking to deliver Renewable Gas as a solution.”
The Pollinator Plan
Gas Networks Ireland has also signed up as a business supporter of the All Ireland Pollinator Plan 2015-2020.
“Irish Pollinators (bees, hoverflies etc.) are in serious decline requiring immediate attention to ensure the sustainability of our food production, avoid additional economic impact on the agricultural sector and protect the health of the environment,” explains Anne.
“The Pollinator Plan provides food and shelter across the country so that pollinators can survive and thrive. We met recently with Biodiversity Ireland to discuss how our company can support this important initiative.”