Alex from Bailieborough, Co Cavan studied QQI Level 5 course in Motor Vehicle Maintenance at Cavan Institute.

"Since leaving school in 2014, I was unsure of what I wanted to do with my life. I was a DJ at the weekends and decided to do a music related course. After two years of that course I decided it wasn’t for me. I thought long and hard about what I wanted to do with my life. Every evening without fail, I worked on cars with one of my friends Darren. He showed me what he does with regards to fixing cars. I also do a lot of marshaling at motor sport rallies across Ireland. I decided to do the Motor Vehicle Maintenance and Technology course in Cavan Institute as it would give me the knowledge, skills and confidence to pursue a career in the motor trade or give me the option to enroll in an engineering degree course and further my education.
During my time in Cavan Institute I learned so much about everything to do with cars from changing a wheel to servicing cars and even to taking an engine apart and rebuilding it.
As part of the course we do a two week work experience placement. I completed my placement in Jackson’s Ford in Cavan. While I was there, I gained knowledge about servicing and working on all Ford cars and vans.
I finished the course in Cavan Institute at the end of May and obtained a Full Award with distinctions.
I knew the motor industry was the road I had to take in life for my career so once my coure finished I started to apply for an apprenticeship. I was very fortunate that J.M.C Auto Services, Kingscourt took me on for a months trial. After the trial I was signed up as an apprentice mechanic. I’m currently on phase 1 of my apprenticeship. Today, I couldn’t be happier with my decision to change direction in my career and Cavan Institute made this possible for me."