Here in TCS we are so lucky to have a great Engineering and Metalwork department. In my time doing the subject, I have learned so much, from the basics of working with metal, how to file and shape it, to properly polishing different metals. The skills go on and on. You then get to apply these various skills depending on the size and scale of the project.
Each project I try to take a different approach to it and try to always make it the best I can. One of my favourite things to do is to see what I was given at the start of the project and see what I turned it into, I especially enjoy when I am given full control of what it looks like and how it functions. One of the first things I made was a simple metal keyring but I have progressed since then and recently made an electronic miniature car with my class. This was great as I got to learn about soldering, wiring and how to assemble parts together, making sure the item works the way it was intended to.
We have great facilities here in the engineering room in TCS. Everyday going into class feels like the excitement of day one getting ready to use all the tools and machines. From my years in TCS engineering room, I see that it is always changing and improving. In 2019 we were lucky enough to get a 3D printer. We try to take full advantage of this, but not make our whole project from the printer, just the tricky things. In 2021 we got a laser cutter and this is a very handy machine that lets us design awkward angles and cut them out with a smooth finish within minutes. It means now we can make things of an even higher standard.
Engineering is a fantastic subject that prepares you for a wide variety of careers like a mechanical engineer or a mechanic. On top of that I’m glad I picked it as its good to have a knowledge of how to fix things by yourself. Even having a small background in these skills could help you in the future.
By Conor Hearne
