Aindreas Muldowney

What have you been doing since finishing your studies? What are you doing in terms of your career?

I am continuing to work as a manager and engineer with Transitions Optical. I have started applying for full engineering charter membership with the Institute of Engineering Technology (IET).

What company are you working for, what is your role and what does it involve?

I work for Transitions Optical Ltd., part of EssilorLuxottica SA, a French-Italian vertically integrated multinational corporation. I design and globally support optical benches that are bespoke equipment to test and record the irradiance and transmittance of light through photochromic coated optical lenses. The benches include solar simulation light sources, optical filters, lenses, spectrophotometers and a means to control humidity and temperature. In addition, I work closely with scientists, engineers, finance, logistics and marketing support.

What experiences at Leeds do you think have particularly helped with your career/will help with your future career?

The engineering master’s ten modules have been central to solidifying my career experiences; however, the ones that have stood out are ‘managing major engineering projects’ – excellent preparation for researching and citing papers. ‘Safety and corporate social responsibility’ have given me so much to reflect on the potential that well-managed engineering entities may impact the world. Likewise, ‘business strategy for engineers’ have implications for my understanding and appreciation of global integration while appreciating local response. ‘Emerging and disruptive technologies’ help to appreciate the more incredible encompassing picture that sets the scenarios to help better appreciate the impact of other modules like ‘business strategy for engineers’.

In summary, every module fits well with the ebb and flow of the masters. 

Why did you choose to study online? How did you find the experience of completing a degree off-campus?

My ambition always has been to gain academic recognition to complement my career choices and path. Technology through online access has allowed me to remain in the traditional workforce while studying and working with fine minds to reflect upon formal access to engineering knowledge and skills to carry out research.

Looking back, why did you choose to study your particular course and why did you choose the University of Leeds?

I was part of a medical device start-up company several years ago, eventually selling my part of the company to a public listed company. My experience in seeing a company grow to medium size and ultimately seeing the sale of this same company announced on the NASDAQ drove me to solidify my experiences into an academic qualification in my view to formalise my standing in the world. The engineering management course at the University of Leeds best suited my needs to be able to study and work simultaneously.

I chose the University of Leeds after careful research against other universities, the university world league tables and the modules contained in the master’s prospectus.

The University of Leeds engineering schools have an excellent reputation; this significantly influenced my decision, as had the University’s reputation for research and the wonderful online library resources.

What was the best aspect of the course/the University and why? Any highlights?

The module leaders performed superbly. At least eight of the modules were far above expectations for enthusiastic preparation and participation. The course content was carefully prepared and had a wonderful mix of video, simulator, audio, and walk-through presentations.

Even though my studies at the University have been remote, I have always felt connected and included through ‘Leeds for Life’ and ‘Forever Leeds’.

What would you say to students thinking about studying the same course at Leeds/thinking about the same career?

I advise having a few years of engineering experience to find context from the engineering management masters. Then, be prepared to invest a lot of time and enjoy the experience!