Limerick pupils on point after visit to precision engineering company

STUDENTS from a city centre school got up close to the operations of a local engineering firm during a special site visit.

The pupils at St Mary’s National School at King’s Island headed to Raheen to see first-hand what goes on at Takumi Precision Engineering.

There, they learnt about the company’s operations and history.

The visit was part of the Outreach to Employment Programme, led by Limerick City and County Council’s regeneration directorate, in partnership with Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board, and Department of Social Protection.

Also helping to organise the event was Paul Partnership, the Technological University of the Shannon, as well as industry and community representatives.

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The programme is aimed at the four regeneration communities in the city and aims to improve opportunities for access to employment, education, and training pathways.

Founded in 1998, Takumi Precision Engineering is a global engineering solutions provider.

It employs around 150 people at its Limerick operation, with staff specialising in bespoke medical, aerospace, and industrial component assembly and manufacturing.

The firm’s founder, Gerry Reynolds, who grew up in Limerick, gave the company its unique name after spending time in Japan following his graduation as an engineer.

This site visit gave the chance for children and their parents to engage with a local company at an early stage, experiencing a real work environment and highlighting future opportunities available for both parents and their children.

Mayor John Moran praised the work of the Outreach to Employment programme.

He said: “This initiative is a fantastic example of how we can connect our young people with local industry, providing them with valuable insights and inspiration for their future careers. It’s wonderful to see the community come together to support the next generation.”

Metropolitan district leader, Cllr Kieran O’Hanlon, who represents the King’s Island community on the local authority added:

“This initiative is particularly impactful for residents in often overlooked areas, providing them with invaluable first-hand experiences of life in the workplace. By witnessing the opportunities and possibilities available, individuals are inspired to achieve their full potential. With the right support and guidance, everyone can succeed.”

Eoghan O’Byrne, the principal of St Mary’s National School, expressed his enthusiasm saying his students and their parents have been afforded a “fantastic opportunity” to look around the premises.

“Experiences like this truly inspire and connect learning with the real world for our pupils,” he said.

Stacey Keane, of Takumi added: “It's an honour to share our passion for innovation and sustainability with the next generation.

We hope this visit inspires them to explore careers in engineering and technology, and to see the exciting opportunities available right here in Limerick.”