Mayo woman finds new career in Tech through local apprenticeship

As CAO deadlines approach next week, thousands of students and parents across Mayo are weighing up their options and wondering what the future holds. While many will choose the traditional college route, one local woman is encouraging young people to consider the growing range of alternatives.

Anne-Marie McAndrew from Ballina took a non-traditional path into a successful career in technology after discovering a local Tech Apprenticeship supported by Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim Education and Training Board (MSLETB) and coordinated nationally by FIT (Fastrack into Information Technology).

Like many students, Anne-Marie admits she felt unsure when it came time to fill out her CAO choices.

“I had no idea what I wanted to do,” she said. “When it came to filling out the CAO, it felt like it was either science or nothing, and I just didn’t see myself in any of that.”

After completing studies in beauty therapy, Anne-Marie realised she wanted to explore her long-standing interest in technology. However, the idea of returning to full-time college didn’t appeal to her learning style.

“The idea of sitting in a lecture hall with 200 other people just felt overwhelming,” she said. “It didn’t suit how I learn. I learn by doing.”

That search led her to the Computer Networking Apprenticeship delivered locally through MSLETB and coordinated by FIT. The two-year programme allows apprentices to earn a salary, gain a Level 6 qualification and work with a leading company while training.

“It has completely changed my life for the better,” Anne-Marie said. “I honestly haven’t looked back for a single day since I started. It’s been the best experience of my life.”

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Anne-Marie describes her role as hands-on and varied, working directly with people and solving real-world technical problems.

“I applied for network engineering because I knew it would be hands-on,” she explained. “It applies everywhere – from cybersecurity to cloud environments to banking. I’m on people’s computers explaining what’s going on behind the scenes, talking about networks, firewalls and systems.”

“You’re there to find solutions and fix problems that are stressful for other people. More than anything, it’s given me confidence and direction.”

FIT supports a range of Tech Apprenticeships across Ireland, including Computer Networking, Software Development and Cybersecurity, with a new Data Analytics programme expected to launch in mid-2026, subject to validation.

Looking back, Anne-Marie says she wishes this option had existed when she was younger, but hopes her story will encourage local students and career-changers to explore alternatives beyond traditional college routes.

“If this had existed when I was younger, I would have grabbed it,” she said. “There isn’t just one right path. If college doesn’t feel right, that doesn’t mean you’ve failed. Sometimes you just have to look a little harder for the options that suit you.”

Applications remain open for FIT’s Tech Apprenticeship programmes, starting in March and April 2026, with courses delivered with MSLETB in Sligo. Further information and applications are available at www.fit.ie.

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