ATU Galway Mechanical Engineering student Roy Sheridan has been named Siemens Innovative Student Engineer of the Year 2023.
Roy, from Castlebar Co. Mayo, was presented with his award at the annual Engineers Ireland Awards ceremony in Dublin last week.
The prestigious award, now in its 24th year, is presented annually by Siemens and Engineers Ireland to the best engineering student, or team, who has conceived and developed an innovative technology or commercially viable product.
Roy’s innovative prototype was one of five projects shortlisted for the finals. He was presented with two awards, the overall award and a finalist award for having designed and manufactured a “3-Axis Desktop CNC Milling Machine for Pedagogical Purposes.”
Using a variety of engineering principles, Roy created a working prototype of his desktop machine which can be used by hobbyists, industry, students and educators for STEM teaching and training purposes, and for the realisation of miniature parts and products.
Roy has just completed his Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering (Honours) degree at ATU Galway city campus and will graduate later this month.
Describing his work, Roy says, “The 3D printing has revolutionized the way students are taught engineering, however one process that is continually overlooked due to the expense involved is CNC machining.”
“Desktop CNC machines can put the technology within the reach of all engineering students, and provide students with a practical, hands-on experience in Engineering and Manufacturing”.
Roy thanked his, “parents, family, classmates, and staff who have taught me during my time in ATU Galway. This achievement would not have been possible without your support, knowledge and expertise”.
He also thanked his supervisor Dr Oliver Mulryan for his guidance, and Engineers Ireland and Siemens for choosing him as the winner.
Dr Mulryan, who is the Head of Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering at ATU Galway-Mayo said, “Well done Roy, you have done yourself, your family, classmates and ATU proud.”
“Your project literally blew the judging panel away, and your work is evidence of the high calibre of the engineering programmes offered in ATU Galway.”
