Irish Civil Engineering Sector Facing Rapid Evolution and Legacy Recruitment Challenges
Sunday 16 August 2026
Representatives from the Irish engineering sector have highlighted how rapid changes and a post-2008 talent drain continue to affect major infrastructure delivery.
Irish engineering experts have highlighted ongoing course demand issues and rapid technological changes amid a push for major national infrastructure projects.
Speaking on Newstalk's *Down to Business* with Bobby Kerr, industry figures discussed the evolving landscape of civil engineering in Ireland as the state focuses on delivering large-scale infrastructure, including MetroLink and the Cork Luas project.
Liam Gleeson, director at GK Consultant Engineering, stated that the sector is completely different compared to a decade ago and is changing very quickly. According to Mr. Gleeson, while engineers historically had more time to contemplate their designs, newer professionals entering the field must now learn on the job.
However, legacy issues from the 2008 financial crash continue to impact the profession. Eugene O’Brien, Adjunct Professor at UCD and Director at Research Driven Solutions, noted that the industry has not fully recovered since the economic downturn, which triggered job losses and graduate emigration. This downturn has contributed to a lasting low demand for civil engineering courses.