Connor McAleer

Business Advisor, Made Smarter

Before studying MSc Industrial Digitalisation, I had a BA degree in Business Management with overseas study in Sevilla; I achieved a first overall and was awarded ‘best performing student’. The overseas study enabled me to gain competency with Spanish writing, reading and speaking. So I came to MSc Industrial Digitalisation with a unique perspective that incorporated a global business mind set.

The course provided an excellent platform to gain an understanding of Industry 4.0, but with a realistic approach. Instead of simply speculating what companies what, this course has direct links to industry and has adapted the syllabus accordingly.

It was evident throughout the teaching process that the course provides access to opportunity. For example, the weekly interactions with guest speakers allowed students and businesses alike to feed and grow off each other. In addition, every Monday we had a discussion about the latest developments in Industry 4.0, making sure that our knowledge remained relevant and useful.

My creativity and dedication were testing, as I was at first unfamiliar with Computer Aided Design (CAD) technology. But it was a great opportunity for me: by overcoming my initial difficulties and producing end products that meet design briefs and criteria, I was showing future employers not only that I have the technical skills but that I am adaptable and learn quickly. I became competent with Autodesk Fusion 360, and I improved each week thanks to the MSc programme.

I wanted to bridge the gap between the huge potential of Industry 4.0 technology and traditional ways of manufacturing and doing business. I also wanted to get a job with a company that embraces Industry 4.0.