5 minutes with...Dylan Murphy

Dylan Murphy graduated from Munster Technological University’s BSc (Hons) Construction Management course in 2025 and is a CABE Best Final Year Student award winner.

Q Have you always had an interest in construction/engineering?

I grew up on Sherkin Island, in the Republic of Ireland, where I always heard stories about building, problem-solving and making things work on the island. This naturally sparked my interest from an early age. My parents built both a house and a hotel on the island, so construction has always been part of my life. Like many kids, watching Bob the Builder probably didn’t hurt either.

Q What has been your route into the profession?

I completed my leaving certificate in 2022 and originally planned to study nautical science. However, I decided to switch to construction at Munster Technological University, which felt like a better fit. After completing my Level 7 in construction management, I progressed into the Level 8 programme, where I am continuing my studies. Construction always felt like a natural direction for me – though if I had got my driving license when I finished school, I would likely have gone down the trade route.

Q During your studies, has there been any element that stood out as something you’d like to specialise in?

Construction human resource management stood out as it offered a different perspective on the industry. It highlighted the importance of people and organisation alongside the technical aspects of construction.

Q What were the challenges of your course?

One of the biggest challenges was a maths module in the first year, which required a steep learning curve. Once that hurdle was overcome, the course was manageable overall.

Q What surprised you most about the profession?

During my placement on a pharmaceutical construction site in Cork, I was surprised by the level of planning and precision involved. Every detail was carefully co-ordinated, which highlighted the complexity and high standards required in the industry.

Q What advice would you give to students who are starting out?

Ask questions and build relationships with your classmates. You learn a lot from the people around you, and those connections can be just as valuable as the technical knowledge gained during the course.

Q What question do you get asked most often?

Where I plan to go after college – a question I’m still happy to keep open as I continue developing my experience.

Q What inspires you?

My family has always been a strong source of inspiration and support. I’m also naturally competitive, which drives me to keep improving and to push myself to a higher standard.

Q What is the biggest challenge facing the profession, in your opinion?

Getting more people into trades and construction is one of the biggest challenges facing the industry.

Best Final Year Student award winners receive 12 months of free, non-chartered membership with CABE to support them in advancing their career. The initiative is open to all CABE academic partners with accredited courses.

For more information please visit b.link/CABE_AcadPartners