Kerry College Invests in Learners with Fibre Splicing Workshop

Kerry College, in collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Sumitomo Electric Lightwave, proudly announces the successful completion of a two-day fibre splicing workshop as part of the Kerry College Open Week 2024. The workshop, held at our Monavalley Campus, catered to both members of the public and current learners engaged in various courses and apprenticeships.

Recognised as leaders in optical fibre technologies, AWS and Sumitomo Electric Lightwave joined forces with Kerry College to offer an immersive learning experience focusing on fibre installation and data centre fields. The workshops aimed to raise awareness about skill needs and career prospects in these dynamic and growing sectors.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) is the world’s most comprehensive and broadly adopted cloud computing provider, offering over 200 fully featured services to clients globally. Millions of customers, including start-ups, large enterprises, and government agencies, are using AWS to lower costs, become more agile, and innovate faster.

According to Ms. Joanne Reynolds, AWS Community Engagement Manager, “At AWS in Ireland, we are committed to working with Irish educational institutions to equip graduates with skills for today’s economy. This two-day workshop offers a unique pathway for employers to upskill their staff, as well as an option for members of the public to learn invaluable new skills.  AWS is delighted to collaborate with Kerry ETB on this project, which will help to enhance the skill base in the region as well as highlighting the career opportunities available to those who enter this sector.”

The response to the workshop was overwhelmingly positive, with a capacity attendance of 35 learners. Participants were predominantly from the Kerry region, but some learners travelled from as far as Donegal to attend.  Additionally, several learners enrolled from local employers, reflecting the workshop’s relevance to regional industry needs.

Throughout the two-day event, participants delved into the fundamentals of fibre optic installation, repair, and splicing. They also gained hands-on experience by practising real-world deployment techniques, ranging from traditional hand tools to cutting-edge automated fusion splicing technology.

Kerry College Monavalley Campus Manager Mr Con O’Sullivan noted, “We are delighted to have had the opportunity to work with AWS and Sumitomo Electric Lightwave and collaborate with them to deliver this unique learning and development opportunity for Kerry.” Mr O’Sullivan added, “This is a fantastic programme for those already in the industry who want to develop their skills and knowledge even further, but also for potential career changers who are interested in learning more about this exciting and growing industry.”

Upon completion of the workshop, Kerry College Monavalley Campus hosted a certificate ceremony, where Kerry ETB Board Chairperson, Cllr. Jim Finucane awarded AWS Certificates of Completion to all successful learners. Councillor Finucane welcomed the initiative and commended AWS, Sumitomo Electric Lightwave and Kerry College for ‘‘delivering relevant, in-demand education and training provision to meet industry needs.’

The ceremony was graced by esteemed guests, including Joanne Reynolds, Community Engagement Manager at AWS; Con O’Sullivan, Monavalley Campus Manager; Allyson Eastman, Economic and Workforce Development Manager at AWS; and Lauren Deloatch, Project Manager at Sumitomo Electric Lightwave.

This collaborative effort between Kerry College, AWS, and Sumitomo Electric Lightwave underscores a commitment to fostering talent, promoting industry-aligned education, and empowering learners with practical skills essential for future career success.