Grad life insights with Michael

"When you work with the team, you really feel that you are part of the team." 

I joined Egis in Ireland in 2024, making a significant shift from my home in Brazil. Before moving, I was familiar with Egis, having worked on the same street as the Brazil office after graduating in engineering from university. It wasn't long before I came across an opportunity to apply for the Egis Ireland office through a LinkedIn post, and soon after, I was welcomed into the dynamic team at Classon House in Dublin. 

Working as part of the Roads and Structural team, I’ve been fortunate to engage with major national projects, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, and finding a balance between professional growth and downtime with colleagues. The only challenge left to tackle is the Irish weather! 

My Role and Responsibilities 

Since I started at Egis as a graduate engineer, I have had the chance to contribute to significant infrastructure projects, including the Adare Bypass and various road schemes. My primary focus revolves around drainage design, where I support senior engineers with calculations, planning, and coordination among design and construction teams. It’s fulfilling work, particularly because drainage plays a vital role in road safety and resilience, especially given Ireland’s shifting climate. While it may not be the most visible aspect of a road project, it’s crucial for ensuring that roads remain safe under all weather conditions. Wherever possible, we prioritise nature-based solutions, opting for more environmentally friendly methods over conventional concrete. 

The Importance of Teamwork 

What I enjoy most about working at Egis is the fantastic team culture. Everyone here is friendly and supportive, which made my transition from Brazil to Ireland much smoother. Being part of a team where collaboration is valued, knowledge is shared freely, and newcomers are warmly welcomed has greatly contributed to my confidence and integration into my new environment - even if the weather sometimes makes me nostalgic for Brazil! 

Learning and Growth Opportunities 

Egis has also provided me with incredible exposure to projects and opportunities for learning. Since my arrival, I have honed my technical and organizational abilities by managing drawings and project documents. Working alongside various disciplines on road projects has enriched my understanding, and the support for ongoing training has been invaluable. Last year, I completed my postgraduate studies in transportation, and I am now eager to transition from a graduate to a junior engineer. For me, Egis is not just a workplace; it’s a place where you can continuously learn, take on meaningful responsibilities, and truly feel part of something impactful.