This week saw a landmark celebration at Combilift’s global headquarters in Monaghan, marking the 10th anniversary of the highly successful OEM Engineering Traineeship—a collaborative initiative between Combilift and the Cavan and Monaghan Education and Training Board (CMETB). The event, which welcomed past graduates, current trainees, and local educators, underscored the programme’s evolution from a local skills initiative to a cornerstone of regional industrial development.
Launched in 2015, the OEM Engineering Traineeship was born from a shared vision to tackle the skills gap in engineering and manufacturing with an industry-led approach. Today, over 150 trainees have passed through its doors to achieve a QQI level 5 qualification, and job placement rates are above 80%. The program is a model for how industry and education can collaborate for mutual benefit.
Combilift, a global leader in materials handling solutions, has been central to this success. As the primary industry partner, Combilift has provided cutting-edge workplace experience and ensured the course content remains aligned with real-world demands. “We wanted to create more than just a training programme—we wanted to build a pathway into meaningful careers,” said Combilift Managing Director, Martin McVicar. “This traineeship has delivered exactly that, time and time again.”
The nine-month program blends 26 weeks of classroom-based learning at Monaghan Institute with 12 weeks of hands-on work experience in Combilift. Over the years, the course content has evolved to reflect changes in the manufacturing landscape, now including modules in Hydraulics, Lean Manufacturing, and, more recently, Mathematics to prepare students for greater work or educational opportunities.
CMETB has played a vital role in coordinating and delivering the educational aspect of the programme. Their ongoing commitment to adapting the curriculum, securing government funding, and expanding the scheme to include other regional employers from 2025 reflects their strategic approach to workforce development. “It’s about staying ahead of the curve,” said Sinead McKenna of CMETB. “We’ve created a flexible, forward-looking course that equips learners with in-demand skills and supports local industry at the same time.”
One of the most compelling aspects of the programme is its accessibility. Fully funded through government and EU support, it removes financial barriers for participants. Trainees are offered a weekly bursary per week during practical placements within Combilift. Trainees also benefit from additional qualifications, including a City & Guilds module in Hydraulics and a Lean Six Sigma White Belt.
The 10-year milestone was marked by reflection and ambition for the future. Attendees at the celebration event heard first-hand from past graduates who have built thriving careers. Many are still with Combilift, and some have progressed to degree-level study or engineering apprenticeships.
With enrolment now open for the September 2025 intake, Combilift and CMETB are doubling their commitment to the next generation. As Martin McVicar put it, “The demand for talent in this sector is only growing, and we’re proud to continue building that talent right here in Monaghan.”
To learn more about Combilift’s OEM Engineering Traineeship, please visit combilift.com/training
