We caught up with Thomas Clifford is a Fourth Year Apprentice Fabricator with Murphy Ireland, based at RUSAL Aughinish, Co. Limerick.

What do you do at Murphy?

I work on structural steel, fabricating and installing pipework, operating the cutting saw to cut various metals, and weld and grind fabricated structures to meet structural requirements.

What do you like most about your role? 

I get great job satisfaction when a challenging job is completed safely, within the specified time frame and 100% right.

What do you find most interesting about your role?

The Murphy team onsite are involved in designing and installing equipment, overseeing large projects, and researching and developing new innovations in the field to facilitate safer and more efficient systems of work. The work is complex, so mechanical fitters onsite need a high level of experience, education and training. The onsite crew are supportive, and I learn a lot from them.

I really enjoy the learning aspect to the job and learning from more experienced colleagues.    

What has been your biggest challenge at Murphy?

One of the major challenges facing us onsite is that the plant itself was built 35 years ago and some of the products used then are no longer in production. Therefore, the onsite personnel have had to develop new innovative techniques /methods to facilitate successful delivery of projects; it is not like a standard construction site when you can build everything from scratch, and it is the only alumina refinery in Ireland.

What attracted you to the construction industry?

I like working with my hands and I am interested in mechanical fabrication. I also own my own machinery and I enjoy working with it. I have a big interest in cars, and I rebuild and restore cars in my spare time.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Standing back when the job is finished and looking at a job well done with my team.

What is your proudest achievement?

I successfully transferred a V8 engine from a fire truck and converted it into a Massey Ferguson Tractor. I am also proud of reaching the second round of the World Skills Competition for metal fabrication.

What are your career aspirations? 

I wouldn’t mind doing a mechanical engineering degree when I finish my apprenticeship. I got accepted to do a college course when I finished my leaving certificate, but I chose to do the hands-on experience first.

On a typical weekend, what can we expect you to be doing?

Hobbies such as shooting, farming, and socialising with my friends who are also car enthusiasts.

Tell us a funny/interesting fact about yourself...

I bought my first welder when I was thirteen years old.