From Tools to Tech: Sean's Journey of Reinvention

At 39, Dublin native Sean has made a remarkable career transition from working as a carpenter to becoming a Civil and Structural Subject Matter Expert (SME) for a leading data centre multinational company.  His journey, from working on rooftops to being employed in an office, highlights the transformative power of education, and the role The Open University played in his success. 

Sean’s proudest achievement is earning two degrees, the first being a level 7 ordinary degree, which marked his initial transition from carpentry.  However, it was the pursuit of a Level 8 honours degree in Engineering with The Open University that truly opened doors. 

Reflecting on his shift, Sean noted, “It's really brought me into a whole different life, working in an office rather than being in the rain on a roof. Lots of friends that are tradesmen find it difficult to go back to college.  I tell them it just really opens up a different life.” 

Sean discovered The Open University while searching online for Level 8 degrees and was drawn to its flexibility.  As a working professional and father of two, the online learning format was ideal. “I found it really hard with the original degree having to go into college at night or give up some time at work,” he explained.   “The flexibility of the OU was just second to none.” 

He was able to transfer credits from his previous foundation degree, allowing him to fast-track through the honours programme.  This experience inspired Sean to encourage others. “My friend, a plumber, had done computer science at Level 7, and I said, ‘Get on to the OU, get your credit transfer,’ He actually started last week.” 

Sean’s engineering degree helped him advance professionally, opening doors for career growth and professional accreditation.  “Getting the honours degree really opened things up for me.  It’s a massive stepping stone.  With just a Level 7, it’s very difficult, but once you get the Level 8, it makes things a lot easier.” 

His experience with employers varied, from companies that required him to make up time on weekends to those that supported his studies with time off for exams.  “A lot of people were just happy for me and wanted me to do it.  I don’t think anyone begrudged me.” 

Balancing family life, work and education was a challenge, but The Open University’s flexibility made it manageable.  “Life came first with the OU.  I could juggle college around life, rather than life around college.” 

His studies were largely undertaken during the COVID-19 pandemic, adding a unique element to his learning.  “I remember doing experiments at home with packages they sent us, including straws, nuts and bolts.  It gave me something to do during lockdown.” 

Now that Sean has completed his degree, he’s set his sights on becoming a Chartered Engineer, a goal made easier by his Engineers Ireland membership, which was facilitated by his academic achievements. 

Looking to the future, Sean hasn’t ruled out further education.  “In a couple of years, I might do a masters. Last year, I would have said it’d be in structural earthquakes.  This year, it’s an MBA.  But I want to make sure I know what I’m doing.” 

Sean’s advice to others considering a return to education is clear: “It’s a great achievement to get it done for people who want to do it.  I’d recommend it.” 

From tradesman to tech expert, Sean’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of education and the opportunities that flexible, online learning can unlock.