Katherine Condon

How did you hear about the Jameson Engineering Programme?

I first heard about the Jameson Engineering Programme through the Grad Fair in UCC. Jameson had a stand there and I got talking to the Master Distiller.

What appealed to you most about the Jameson Engineering Programme?

I liked the fact that you got to see the business in its entirety – from grain to glass. You got to work on cereal analysis right through to sampling the casks in the warehouse.

What type of person fits into the Jameson culture?

Someone who thinks outside the box, who is not afraid to challenge why things are done in a certain way. Someone who has got Serious Character, without taking themselves too seriously.

What characteristics make a successful engineer at Jameson?

Someone who is friendly, inclusive, respectful and straight talking. It’s important to have passion for your work and always go the extra mile.

Tell us about the exposure you got as a Jameson Graduate engineer?

I got to work on the design stages and HAZOPs for new equipment. I got involved in commissioning stages and analysing distillate quality. I also attended whiskey tastings and whiskey events which was excellent as you get to see how our whiskeys are enjoyed all over the world. I put my engineering skills to use in all aspects of my work.

What was the most rewarding part of the Jameson Engineering Programme?

Building relationships from working in cross-functional teams. I worked closely with the quality, maintenance, health and safety and environmental departments. I have made friends for life from the graduate programme.

What was the most challenging thing about being on the Jameson Engineering Graduate Programme?

Trying to remember everyone’s name when I started first! There is a real sense of belonging in Midleton, from the day I started, people were so friendly and helpful.

What skills have you developed?

I have developed my communication and presentation skills – practiced via public speaking and conducting whiskey tasting sessions. I developed my problem solving skills, by using root cause analysis and lean techniques.

What technical and soft skills training did you get?

I was trained on the automation systems that we use on site this includes SCADA software and trending of process parameters. I also use Microsoft Excel, Word and PowerPoint on a daily basis.

What achievement are you most proud of?

During my time on the programme I completed the General Certificate in Distillation – this is a certificate from the Institute of Brewing and Distilling.

What’s your favourite memory of the programme?

Witnessing the Micro Distillery come to life. I was involved in this project from the design stages, right through to commissioning and producing the first spirit off the pot stills. Its currently maturing in barrels and I cannot wait to see this whiskey bottled.

Would you recommend it to a friend?

100% yes

Any tips for anyone applying to the programme?

Be yourself and take the time to fill out the application properly. Believe me; its 100% worth it, if your successful.

Outside of the day job, what do you do for fun?

Meet my friends, play music and plan adventure trips.